Military orders can arrive with very little warning. Suddenly, you have just weeks or even days to pack up your life, coordinate with movers, and report to a new duty station that could be hundreds or thousands of miles away. Driving your car across the country adds several days to an already stressful timeline, along with fuel costs, hotel bills, and significant wear and tear on your vehicle. This is where car shipping companies can simplify the chaos. By professionally handling your vehicle transport, they free you to focus on your family and your next chapter of service.

This guide will walk you through the practical steps of using an auto transport service for your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move. You will learn how to prepare your vehicle, evaluate providers, schedule your shipment, and confirm delivery, all while avoiding common issues that can complicate a relocation.

Understanding the Demands of a Military PCS Move

A PCS move is a standard military relocation where service members receive orders to transfer to a new duty station. These moves are frequent and operate on tight schedules. You must manage strict reporting dates, coordinate household goods shipments, arrange temporary lodging, and handle family logistics all at once.

The peak PCS season runs from May through August. During this time, demand for movers, housing, and vehicle transport spikes. This leads to higher prices and less availability, making last minute changes a common occurrence. Since PCS moves are a major financial and logistical stressor for military families, early planning is crucial. Booking your vehicle shipment as soon as you receive your orders gives you more control over the timing and cost of your military car shipping.

For service members moving from one military base to another, professional auto transport services remove a major task from your to do list. Instead of spending days on the road, you can hand your keys to a trusted carrier and travel separately, arriving rested and ready to settle into your new home.

Why Are Car Shipping Companies Essential Allies?

Car shipping companies generally fall into two categories: brokers and carriers. Carriers are the companies that own the trucks and physically haul your vehicle. Brokers act as intermediaries, connecting you with carriers in their extensive networks. This often results in more competitive rates because they can compare multiple options for your specific military auto transport needs.

ABC Auto Shipping operates as a premier nationwide auto transport broker. We work with a network of reliable carriers we have partnered with for years. This approach gives you access to a wider pool of drivers and routes, which is especially helpful during the busy PCS season when capacity is limited. All legitimate brokers and carriers must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), so you can easily verify their credentials.

The financial case for shipping your car is often clear. Many families find they would rather spend $1,000 to $1,200 to ship a car than undertake a multi day drive during an already chaotic time. When you factor in fuel, hotels, meals, and potential wear on your vehicle, professional transport can often cost less and save you days of stress. To help ease the financial burden of relocation, we proudly offer a specialmilitary discount.

Beyond the cost savings, professional transport provides peace of mind. Reputable companies prioritize the safety and security of your vehicle throughout its journey, from careful loading to continuous monitoring. Carrier insurance protects against unforeseen incidents, and real time updates keep you informed every step of the way.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipment

Proper preparation helps prevent delays and disputes. Start by cleaning your vehicle inside and out. A clean exterior makes it easier to spot any pre existing damage during the pre shipment inspection. Take detailed photos from multiple angles including the front, back, sides, and close ups of any existing scratches or dents. These photos will serve as your baseline if you need to file a claim later.

Remove all personal belongings from your vehicle. Most transport companies do not allow personal items because they add weight and are not covered by insurance. As a courtesy, ABC Auto Shipping allows up to 100 pounds of uninsured personal items, but we recommend keeping it closer to 70 pounds. Anything over this amount requires carrier approval and may incur a surcharge. Keep in mind that auto transporters do not carry insurance for personal belongings, and it’s always at the driver’s discretion to accept them. You can find more details on our FAQ page.

Check your fuel level and keep the tank at about one quarter full. This is enough for loading and unloading without adding unnecessary weight. Also, top off other fluids, check your tire pressure, and make sure your battery is charged and secured. Repairing any leaks before shipping will reduce the risk of mechanical issues during transport.

Finally, gather your necessary paperwork. You will need your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a copy of your PCS orders to qualify for any military discounts. Having these documents ready will speed up the booking process.

Pre Shipment Checklist

  • Wash the exterior and clean the interior
  • Take photos of your vehicle from all angles
  • Remove or minimize personal items
  • Reduce the fuel level to a quarter tank
  • Check tire pressure, fluids, and battery
  • Disable alarms and remove toll transponders
  • Organize your registration, insurance, and PCS orders

How to Evaluate Car Shipping Companies?

Not all car shipping companies are the same. Start by verifying their credentials. Every legitimate broker and carrier must be registered with the government. You can use the FMCSA Company Snapshot tool to confirm registration, check safety ratings, and review insurance details. This simple step helps you avoid unlicensed operators.

Read customer reviews on independent platforms like Google, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau. Look for patterns in feedback. Do customers mention transparent pricing and timely communication? Or do they complain about hidden fees and poor service? A company with a solid track record is more likely to handle your PCS car shipping smoothly.

When comparing quotes, do not automatically choose the cheapest option. A very low quote can sometimes signal hidden fees that will appear later. Compare pricing and services to find the best value, and prioritize companies with excellent customer service. Always ask about insurance coverage upfront. Most carriers provide basic coverage, but you may need additional protection for high value vehicles.

Clear communication is essential. Confirm pickup windows, delivery timelines, and any special instructions before you book. A reputable broker will answer your questions directly and keep you updated throughout the shipment process so you are never left wondering where your vehicle is.

Scheduling Your Car Shipment

Timing is everything in a PCS move. We recommend booking your vehicle transport at least 7 to 30 days in advance whenever possible. For the most accurate rate, it is best to book 10 to 20 days before your earliest available pickup date. During the peak PCS season from May to August, consider booking even earlier, perhaps 4 to 6 weeks out, to secure capacity and avoid price increases.

When you place your order, you will provide a pickup window of 1 to 5 days. Most companies will narrow this to a 2 to 3 day window once a carrier is assigned. As the date gets closer, you will receive the driver’s name, phone number, and a 4 hour pickup window.

Stay flexible. Military orders can change, and so can carrier schedules. If your reporting date shifts, contact your broker immediately to adjust the timeline. Reputable companies understand the unpredictable nature of military life and will work with you. For urgent situations, we offer expedited auto transport, though this option comes at a premium.

Ensuring a Seamless Delivery

Delivery day is the final checkpoint. When the carrier arrives, inspect your vehicle carefully before you sign the Bill of Lading (BOL). The BOL is a contract and a receipt that documents your vehicle’s condition. Compare its current state to the photos you took before shipping.

If you find any new damage, note it on the BOL immediately and have the driver acknowledge it. Take photos of the damage from multiple angles. Documenting everything at delivery protects your rights and speeds up the claims process should you need to file one.

Keep in mind that large car carriers may struggle to access narrow residential streets or areas with weight restrictions. The driver will try to get as close to your location as possible. If access is an issue, you will agree on a convenient alternate location, like a nearby shopping center. Communicate any access concerns with your broker early on.

Make Your PCS Move Easier

Military relocations are stressful enough. By booking early, preparing your car correctly, and choosing a reputable company, you can make your military vehicle shipping a straightforward process.

ABC Auto Shipping has supported countless military personnel through their PCS moves. We understand the tight timelines and the need for clear communication. Our specialmilitary discount helps ease the financial burden, and our network of trusted carriers ensures your vehicle is in good hands. F

If you are facing a PCS move, start planning your vehicle shipment today. Request a free quote or call us at 877-686-5611 to discuss your needs. Let us handle your vehicle so you can focus on what matters most.