Military Auto Relocation: The Complete PCS Vehicle Shipping Guide

For military service members and their families, a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is a regular part of life. Whether you are moving to a new base in a different state or deploying overseas, the logistics of relocation can be overwhelming. While the military provides extensive support for moving household goods (HHG), the rules regarding Privately Owned Vehicles (POVs) can be confusing — sometimes the government pays to ship your car, other times the cost falls entirely on you.

At SouthWest Auto Transport, we specialize in assisting military personnel with private auto transport solutions when government options aren't available or convenient. Complete the form on this page or call 1-800-590-6492 to get started.

Understanding Your POV Shipping Entitlements

OCONUS Moves (Overseas)

If you are ordered to a foreign country or non-continental US locations (Hawaii, Alaska, or Guam), the government typically pays to ship one privately owned vehicle through a government-contracted Vehicle Processing Center (VPC). If you have a second vehicle, you must pay out-of-pocket to transport it or sell it before departure.

CONUS Moves (Domestic)

For moves within the 48 contiguous states, the government generally does not pay to ship your vehicle — they expect you to drive and reimburse you for mileage and per diem. However, there are exceptions:

• Time Constraints: If you must report too quickly to drive safely.
• Physical Inability: If medical reasons prevent you or dependents from driving.
• Change of Homeport: Common for Navy personnel when a ship changes its home base.

Government Shipping vs. Private Auto Transport

Feature	Government Contracted (VPC)	Private Auto Transport (SouthWest)
Eligibility	Restricted (usually OCONUS only)	Available to everyone (CONUS & OCONUS)
Drop-Off	Must drive to a specific VPC (often hours away)	Door-to-door service (home or base vicinity)
Timing	Strict scheduling; longer wait times	Flexible scheduling to match your orders
Multiple Cars	Only pays for one vehicle	Can ship multiple vehicles simultaneously

How to Coordinate a Private Military Move

1. Get Multiple Quotes Early

Do not wait until household goods are being packed to think about your car. Auto transport prices fluctuate based on fuel costs and seasonal demand — summer is peak PCS season, and rates rise significantly. At SouthWest Auto Transport, we allow you to compare up to ten free quotes, helping you budget your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) effectively.

2. Verify the Door-to-Door Logistics

Most private carriers offer door-to-door service, but military bases have strict access controls. A large car carrier truck usually cannot enter base housing areas. You will likely need to meet the driver at a large parking lot just outside the main gate — such as a Visitor Center or nearby shopping plaza. Communicate this with your driver in advance.

3. Prepare the Vehicle for Transport

• Wash the Exterior: A clean car ensures the Bill of Lading inspection is accurate.
• Gas Level: Keep the tank roughly 1/4 full — enough to move the vehicle, not heavy enough to add shipping cost.
• Remove Personal Items: By law, carriers are licensed to haul vehicles, not household goods. Anything left in the car is not insured.
• Remove Toll Tags: Take out your E-ZPass or SunPass to avoid being charged as the truck passes through toll booths.

Shipping a Second Vehicle Overseas

One of the most common reasons military families use private transport is moving a second car to an overseas duty station. Before booking, consider:

• Vehicle Specs: Does your American truck fit on narrow European roads and in European parking structures?
• Homologation: Will you need to modify lights or emissions systems to meet local laws?
• Resale Value: Sometimes it is more financially sound to sell the second car in the US and buy a local vehicle at your new duty station.

If you decide to ship, we connect you with international shipping experts who handle customs clearance and port logistics end-to-end.

Documentation You Will Need

• Proof of Ownership: Vehicle title or registration.
• Lienholder Permission: If your car is leased or financed, you may need a letter from the bank authorizing the vehicle to be shipped — especially for overseas moves.
• Photo ID: A valid driver's license or military ID.
• Booking Confirmation: Your contract with the transport broker.

Why SouthWest Auto Transport Supports Our Troops

We understand that a PCS move involves moving your entire life, not just your car. We prioritize communication and reliability so you can focus on getting your family settled. Whether you need an enclosed carrier for a classic car, expedited pickup to meet a report date, or budget-friendly open transport for a second family vehicle, our network of carriers is ready to serve those who serve us.

• Door-to-Door vs. Meet-Up Delivery — Navigating Base Access
• International Auto Transport: Shipping Cars Overseas
• Guaranteed Pickup Windows — Meeting PCS Report Dates

Do not leave your vehicle logistics to the last minute. Call now at 1-800-590-6492 24 hours a day or complete the form on this page. We will provide competitive options from top-rated carriers, ensuring your PCS move is as smooth as possible.