Military Auto Relocation: How to Ship Your Vehicle for a PCS Move
Relocating for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be an exciting but stressful time for military families. Between packing up your belongings, organizing your move, and settling into a new location, there’s a lot to manage. One critical aspect of a PCS move is figuring out how to handle your vehicle transportation. Whether you’re moving across the country or overseas, shipping your car can save you time and reduce the stress of driving long distances.
At SouthWestAutoTransport.com, we specialize in helping military personnel and their families with auto relocation. Our service provides up to ten free quotes from reputable auto transport companies, ensuring you get the best deal while saving time and money. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shipping your vehicle for a PCS move.
To get up to ten free quotes with the best rates complete the form on this page or call us at 1-800-590-6492.
Understanding Your Military Auto Relocation Benefits
Before arranging your vehicle shipment, it’s important to understand the benefits available to you as a member of the military. In many cases, the military will reimburse part or all of the cost of shipping one privately-owned vehicle (POV) as part of your PCS orders. However, there are specific rules and requirements you’ll need to follow, such as:
- Your vehicle must meet the definition of a POV (e.g., cars, motorcycles, or light trucks).
- You may be required to use specific government-approved shipping services, depending on your PCS location.
- Additional vehicles beyond the first may not be covered and will incur out-of-pocket expenses.
It’s always a good idea to confirm your eligibility and reimbursement details with your transportation office before arranging a shipment.
Why Ship Your Car Instead of Driving It?
While driving your car to your new duty station may seem like the simplest option, shipping your vehicle often has significant advantages, especially for long-distance or overseas moves:
1. Save Time and Energy: A PCS move already comes with numerous responsibilities. Shipping your car allows you to focus on other aspects of your relocation without the added burden of a long road trip.
2. Reduce Wear and Tear: Long-distance driving can put unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle, leading to costly repairs. Shipping your car ensures it arrives in the same condition it left in.
3. Convenience for Families: If you have multiple vehicles or children, shipping your car can simplify travel logistics for your family.
4. Overseas Relocation: If your PCS move is international, shipping your car is often the only practical option.
How to Choose a Reliable Auto Transport Company
Finding a trustworthy auto transport company is crucial to ensure your car is shipped safely and on time. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Compare Multiple Quotes: At SouthWestAutoTransport.com, we make it easy to compare up to ten free quotes from reliable car transport providers. This ensures you get the best price and service for your needs.
2. Check Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and carries adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle.
3. Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other military families to find companies experienced in handling PCS moves.
4. Confirm Services: If you need specialized services, such as overseas shipping or enclosed transport for high-value vehicles, confirm that the company can meet your requirements.
To get up to ten free quotes with the best rates complete the form on this page or call us at 1-800-590-6492.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipment
Once you’ve selected a transport company, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for shipping. Proper preparation ensures a smooth process and reduces the risk of unexpected issues.
1. Clean Your Vehicle: Wash your car inside and out to make it easier to spot any pre-existing damage during the inspection.
2. Remove Personal Items: Auto transport companies typically do not allow personal belongings in the vehicle during shipment.
3. Perform a Maintenance Check: Ensure your car is in good working order, including checking the battery, tire pressure, and fluid levels.
4. Document the Condition: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles to document its condition before shipping.
5. Provide Necessary Documents: Have all required paperwork ready, such as your PCS orders and vehicle registration.
What to Expect During the Shipping Process
The process of shipping your car for a PCS move typically involves the following steps:
1. Booking Your Shipment: Once you’ve selected a company and received your quote, schedule your vehicle shipment and coordinate the pickup date.
2. Vehicle Inspection: At pickup, the driver will inspect your car and note any existing damage on the Bill of Lading. You’ll receive a copy for your records.
3. Transport: Your vehicle will be loaded onto a truck or ship and transported to your destination. Transit times can vary depending on the distance and method of transport.
4. Delivery: Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle to ensure it arrived in the same condition. If there’s any damage, document it immediately and contact the transport company.
To get up to ten free quotes with the best rates complete the form on this page or call us at 1-800-590-6492.
Why Choose SouthWestAutoTransport.com for Your PCS Move
At SouthWestAutoTransport.com, we understand the unique challenges faced by military families during a PCS move. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing a stress-free vehicle shipping experience:
- Up to Ten Free Quotes: Save time and money by comparing quotes from multiple reliable auto transport companies.
- Trusted Partners: We work with licensed and insured companies experienced in military auto relocation.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Our team is available around the clock to assist with your vehicle shipping needs.
Get Started Now
Shipping your vehicle for a PCS move doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding your benefits, choosing a reliable auto transport company, and properly preparing your car, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free relocation experience.
At SouthWestAutoTransport.com, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Call now at 1-800-590-6492 24 hours a day or complete the form on this page to receive up to ten free quotes from trusted auto transport providers. Let us help you save time and money on your military auto relocation.