Military PCS Vehicle Shipping Tips & Reimbursement

A Permanent Change of Station move is stressful enough without worrying about how your car gets to the new duty station. Whether you are moving CONUS or OCONUS, understanding your vehicle shipping options and entitlements can save you time, money, and frustration. This guide focuses on practical tips for military PCS vehicle shipping that go beyond the basics.

Understanding Your DITY/PPM Vehicle Options

The Personally Procured Move (PPM), still commonly called a DITY move, gives service members flexibility in how they handle their relocation. Here is how to leverage it for vehicle shipping:

• PPM profit offset: The government pays you 100% of what it would have cost them to move your household goods weight. Many service members net $2,000 to $8,000 or more from their PPM allowance, which can easily cover commercial auto transport.
• Driving vs. shipping math: If your new duty station is 2,000+ miles away, compare the true cost of driving (fuel, hotels, meals, vehicle wear, 3-5 days of leave) against a $900-$1,400 shipping quote. Shipping often wins when you factor in time value.
• Two-vehicle households: Drive one POV for mileage reimbursement and ship the second commercially. This maximizes your entitlements while ensuring both vehicles arrive safely.

Timing Your Shipment Around Orders

Military PCS moves peak during the summer PCS season (May through August), which means carrier demand is highest and prices are elevated. Here is how to work around this:

• Book immediately when orders drop. Do not wait. Summer PCS season can mean 7-10 day waits for carrier pickup versus the usual 2-5 days. Early booking secures better rates and preferred dates.
• Build a 2-week buffer. If your report date is July 1, arrange for vehicle pickup by June 15 at the latest. Cross-country transit takes 7-10 business days, and delays happen.
• Consider early ship-out. If your family is flying to the new location, ship the vehicle 2-3 weeks before your departure. It may arrive before you do, which eliminates the rental car period at the other end.

Maximizing Military Reimbursement

Service members often leave money on the table during PCS moves. Here is a reimbursement checklist:

• Mileage reimbursement: Claim the current DoD rate for one POV driven between duty stations. Check the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) for the exact per-mile rate.
• Per diem for travel days: You are authorized per diem for each travel day based on the authorized travel distance (typically 350 miles per day).
• Dislocation Allowance (DLA): A lump sum to cover miscellaneous moving expenses. This is automatic for most PCS moves.
• Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE): If your vehicle has not arrived and you need a rental car, TLE can offset those costs. Keep receipts.
• Save all auto transport receipts. While commercial vehicle shipping is not directly reimbursed for CONUS moves, the receipts can support your PPM claim and tax deductions for unreimbursed moving expenses (check current tax law applicability).

OCONUS Vehicle Shipping Entitlements

For overseas PCS moves, the military will ship one POV at government expense to authorized locations. Key details:

• Vehicle Processing Centers (VPCs): You will drop off your vehicle at a designated VPC. Major VPCs include those near Norfolk, San Diego, Seattle, and several overseas locations.
• Transit time: Ocean shipping to/from overseas duty stations typically takes 4-8 weeks depending on the destination.
• Second vehicle: The government ships only one POV. If you have a second vehicle, you can ship it commercially, store it, or sell it. Commercial shipping from CONUS to overseas bases runs $2,000 to $5,000+ depending on destination.
• Vehicle restrictions: Some overseas locations have vehicle restrictions (age, emission standards, right-hand drive requirements). Verify with your TMO before shipping.

Short-Notice and Emergency PCS Tips

When orders come with minimal lead time, every day counts:

• Expedited shipping is available. For an additional $100-$300, carriers can prioritize your vehicle for pickup within 24-48 hours.
• Terminal drop-off can speed things up. Instead of waiting for a door pickup, drive your vehicle to the nearest carrier terminal. This can shave 1-3 days off the process.
• Designate a representative. If you need to fly out before the carrier arrives, designate a trusted person (friend, neighbor, spouse's coworker) to handle the pickup. Provide their contact info to your broker.

Common Military Move Mistakes to Avoid

1. Waiting until the last week to book. Carrier availability during PCS season is tight. Last-minute bookings cost more and risk delays past your report date.
2. Not documenting vehicle condition. Take thorough photos before handing over your vehicle. The Bill of Lading is your legal record.
3. Leaving personal items in the car. Items inside the vehicle are not covered by carrier insurance. Remove everything.
4. Forgetting to notify insurance. Tell your auto insurance company about the transport. Confirm coverage during third-party transit.
5. Not exploring all reimbursement options. Visit your Transportation Management Office (TMO) before the move to understand every dollar you are entitled to.

Get Your Military Discount Quote

Quote Auto Ship offers dedicated military pricing for active-duty, reserve, National Guard, and veteran service members. Get your free quote online or call 1-833-848-4600 and mention your military status for instant discount pricing. We understand PCS timelines and will work around your report date.