Car Shipping for Military Relocation: What Every Service Member Should Know

Change is constant, and as military personnel, you have to answer the duty call when your permanent change of station (PCS) calls.  You probably want to take your vehicle with you - how do you bring it along without unnecessary layers of discomfort and obstacles in the process?

That's absolutely why we put this together. 

You are in the right place to get proven tips from our decades of experience to help ship your vehicle to your new station smoothly and safely.

When Service Members Need Vehicle Shipping

(Most common cases)

• PCS movements
• Overseas or cross-country deployments
• Training relocations
• Temporary Duty Assessment (TDA)

Understanding Your Military Vehicle Options

• Government-Arranged Vehicle Shipping

This is a funded shipping option for military personnel relocating. Basically, it applies when the shipping is tied to officially authorized purposes such as PCS.

Although you need to understand that most government-arranged vehicle shipping is often not fully covered.

And they delay because they don't move like a commercial shipping medium.

• Privately Arranged Auto Transport

Private shipping is the shipping service you pay for, especially when you need it to be fully insured. Privately arranged auto transport also offers flexible scheduling and faster delivery.

Tips for Shipping Your Vehicle During a PCS Move

• Book your spot early once orders are issued.

Carrier availability is higher when you book early, while late bookings can be frustrating because that's the peak PCD season, and most carriers are already fully booked.

Know what's covered (and what isn't).

• Insurance coverage differs. 

You must ask what is covered to avoid potential future surprises.

• Choose the Right Transport Type

Open Transport is for standard vehicles. Enclosed transport is for classic or exotic vehicles. Learn more about differences between open and enclosed car shipping.

• Prepare Your Vehicle Properly

Clean the car and take out valuable items.

Document existing damages.

Leave the fuel tank at ¼.

• Be Flexible With Pickup and Delivery Windows

Flexibility reduces cost and delivery delays because it gives the carrier time to plan efficiently.

Why You Should Choose Revoway for Your PCS Move

A PCS move can get as seamless as possible if you choose the right auto transport company.  You won't have to lift a finger when you ship with the right auto transport company.

Here's Why Revoway Is Your Best Bet:

• Safe auto transport service

Revoway has shipped over 80,000 vehicles across the U.S. using certified carriers who understand the job. At Revoway, 

• Fully Insured Auto Transport Services

For your peace of mind, your car gets full coverage in case of unexpected mishaps.

• 24/7 Customer Support Service

Throughout the trip, Revoway keeps you in the loop about the progress of your shipment.  You won't have to suffer from poor communication.

• Competitive Pricing System

We offer an affordable auto shipping pricing system that's not only affordable but also transparent, with zero hidden fees.

Bottom line

PCS moves become practically hassle-free as you leverage the proven tips provided in this blog for service members. You can also call Revoway (+1 424-738-6929) for your PCS moves and get nothing short of a remarkable shipping service.

FAQs

1. Does the military fully cover vehicle shipping during a PCS?

Not always. Government-arranged shipping applies to authorized moves, but coverage may be limited. Always confirm what’s included—and consider private transport for full insurance and faster service.

2. When should I book vehicle shipping for a PCS move?

As soon as your orders are issued. Early booking improves carrier availability, lowers costs, and helps you avoid peak PCS-season delays.

3. What’s the best transport option for most service members?

Open transport is ideal for standard vehicles and offers the best value. Enclosed transport is recommended only for classic, luxury, or specialty vehicles needing extra protection.