Military Vehicle Shipping: Tips for Service Members

Understanding Your Military Shipping Benefits

What the Military Covers (and What It Doesn't)

What is important to know here is that shipping one privately owned vehicle outside the continental U.S. is free, while vehicle movement within 48 states isn’t covered by the military.  But do not stress. You can do smart planning and have affordable and safe shipment.

Military Discounts: Your Hidden Asset

What is your privilege? All shipping companies offer a 10% discount for military service. In addition, some carriers fully specialize in military moves and understand the unique timing pressures you face. Whenever you need a military service, ask about military discounts upfront! You have your perks; use them!

Timing Your Vehicle Shipment with PCS Orders

Are you sure that you will have enough time to organize everything related to your movement? With a firm date, not everything can be perfectly matched in terms of timing? Let’s make your chaos organized.

Book Early (But Stay Flexible)

To have advance booking is an ideal option. Booking 2-4 weeks before your move can save you processes without tight schedules and extra money. Peak PCS season (May-September) books up fast, so earlier is better during the summer months. Always opt for companies that offer flexible pickup windows without extra charges or penalty fees in case of rescheduling.

Choosing a Military-Friendly Auto Transport Company

Marketing is a powerful tool, but no one is free from marketing tricks. Therefore, check properly whether the car shipping company you choose fully understands military life. If they don’t, you may face troubles on the road. So, find one that does.

Must-Have Credentials

How to choose a company that is well-experienced in military shipping services. Look for companies with:

• Licensing from the DOT and MC (not up for negotiation for authenticity)
• Full cargo insurance (check the limitations of coverage)
• Good BBB ratings and reviews that are specialized to the military
• They know how hard it can be to move on time because they have done it before. 

Questions Every Service Member Should Ask

"Do you offer military discounts?" If they don't, keep shopping.

"What's your flexibility with pickup dates?" You need wiggle room when orders change.

"What happens if I deploy before delivery?" Can someone else receive the vehicle? What's the protocol?

"Do you have DOD or base access?" Some companies can pick up/deliver directly to base housing—super convenient!

Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport

Clean and Document Everything

Take photos of your vehicle from all angles—think deployment inventory thoroughness. Document existing scratches, dents, or damage. This protects you if issues arise during transport.

Remove personal items (they're not insured and add weight). Keep only the spare tire, jack, and standard equipment. That case of MREs in your trunk? Take it out.

Mechanical Check

Ensure your vehicle runs (non-running vehicles cost $100-$200 extra to ship). Check tire pressure, battery charge, and fluid levels. You want your car ready to roll when it arrives at your next duty station.

Open transport is standard—your everyday Honda or Ford ships perfectly fine on open carriers. It's budget-friendly and safe for 99% of vehicles.

Enclosed transport costs 30-40% more but protects luxury vehicles, classic cars, or that Corvette you've been babying. If you wouldn't park it outside during a road trip, ship it enclosed.

For most service members on military budgets? Open transport gets the job done reliably.

Red Flags to Avoid

Requires huge deposits upfront: Reputable companies charge small deposits, not 50%+ before pickup.

Won't provide DOT numbers: Unlicensed carriers are disasters waiting to happen.

Quotes too good to be true: If everyone says $900 but one company offers $400, that's a trap.

Poor communication: Military moves require responsive companies that answer calls and emails promptly.

How Revoway Supports Military Families

At Revoway, we honor your service with actions, not just words. Our platform connects service members with vetted, military-friendly carriers who understand PCS timelines, offer competitive military discounts, and deliver vehicles safely across all 50 states.

Why military families choose Revoway:

• Verified military discounts with every quote
• Flexible scheduling for unpredictable PCS timelines
• Fully insured carriers with 80,000+ successful deliveries
• 24/7 support (because military life doesn't work 9-5)
• DOT/MC verified carriers only—your peace of mind guaranteed

Ship with Confidence

Military life throws enough curveballs. Vehicle shipping shouldn't be one of them. With the right information, military discounts, and a reliable transport company, you can focus on what matters—serving our country and taking care of your family.

Ready to ship your vehicle with a company that supports the troops? Get Your Military Discount Quote Today

Thank you for your service. Let us serve you.