Moving due to deployment? Discover car shipping military discounts and compare quotes from top-rated auto transporters with Move Cars.
Military life often involves unexpected moves and tight deadlines. Whether you’re relocating due to PCS orders, heading overseas for deployment, or transferring between bases, vehicle relocation becomes a priority.
Whether you’re moving alone or with your family, coordinating car shipping can be challenging—and expensive.
Fortunately, car shipping military discounts are available to help ease the burden. These discounts provide substantial savings and added benefits for active-duty members, veterans, and their families.
A military discount for car shipping is a reduced rate offered by auto transporters to individuals affiliated with the military. This benefit applies to a wide range of people, including:
Active-duty service members
Veterans
Reservists and National Guard
Immediate family members (in some cases)
Discounts typically range from 5% to 20%, with some companies also offering added perks like expedited shipping or flexible delivery.
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Frequent moves are a fact of military life; they usually require instant action and fast planning. These are the most common moments when a car transport military discount becomes essential:
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Moves can occur every few years, often on short notice. Car shipping helps military families relocate efficiently without putting extra miles on their vehicles.
Overseas deployment (OCONUS*): Shipping a (Privately Owned Vehicle) POV may be cheaper than buying one abroad. It also ensures you’ll have a familiar and reliable vehicle at your new location.*Outside of Continental United States.
Avoiding wear and tear: Long drives damage your car and cost more in the long run. Shipping helps preserve vehicle value and avoid the stress of cross-country driving.
Base transfers: Relocatingfrom one base to another – whether across state lines or continents – is still a move. Shipping offers a safer, faster solution than driving, especially for families with multiple vehicles.
Whether it’s a PCS, deployment, or cross-country transfer, military members face unique challenges, and car shipping discounts help make those transitions smoother, safer, and more cost-effective.
Most companies don’t apply the discount automatically; you have to request it and provide proper verification. It’s best to prepare these documents early to avoid delays in booking.
Provide a valid military ID
Show PCS or deployment orders
These documents help verify your status and ensure you receive the proper rate. Be sure to notify the company early that you’re eligible for a military discount.
Mentioning your military affiliation early in the quote process can help ensure you’re matched with the best pricing and service options. By using a platform like Move Cars, you can compare quotes from multiple vetted transporters who offer these discounts, thereby saving you time and effort.
This approach also helps you find the best value while solidifying that the carrier understands your military-specific needs. Avoid common pitfalls and focus on preparing for your move by streamlining your search and matching with experienced providers.
Moving is a stressful process, and for military members, it’s often unavoidable. That’s why car shipping discounts aren’t just a nice perk, they’re a practical necessity. These savings help reduce the emotional and financial toll of constant relocation while ensuring vehicles are transported safely and efficiently.
Here are the main benefits of military discounts on auto shipping:
Cost savings: Lower transport fees help keep relocation budgets in check.
Priority scheduling: Many auto transporters prioritize military timelines.
Flexible pickup/drop-off: Includes door-to-door or base delivery.
Added services: Some providers offer vehicle storage during deployments.
These perks can make the entire process of moving and shipping your car simpler and stress-free. Check with your transport company to confirm the type and terms of the military discount offered.
When it comes to relocating with the military, not all vehicle shipping options are created equal. Depending on your timeline, vehicle type, and destination, there’s a transport method tailored to your specific needs.
Open car transport is the most budget-friendly option. It is ideal for standard vehicles and short- to mid-range distances. This is a great match for everyday cars that don’t require special protection.
This is the most common transport method used across the U.S. and typically has the fastest carrier availability. While vehicles are exposed to the elements, open transport is generally safe and reliable.
This type of transport protects luxury or classic cars from weather and road debris. Enclosed transport is perfect for high-value POVs that need extra care during transport.
This method offers a higher level of protection by enclosing the vehicle in a covered trailer, shielding it from dust, rain, and potential damage. It’s ideal for military personnel shipping collector cars or vehicles with custom modifications.
For urgent PCS orders or last-minute deployments, expedited shipping guarantees faster delivery. This option can shorten delivery windows by several days. Expedited service often comes at a premium, but it’s worth it for tight schedules or surprise orders.
Military families moving to Hawaii, Guam, Europe, or Asia benefit from specialized vehicle shipping military discount programs. These services often include port-to-port or door-to-port delivery.
Shipments may require additional documentation, such as customs forms and proof of ownership, so early preparation is key. Many overseas car shipping providers work directly with military bases to streamline the process.
No matter where your service takes you, there’s a vehicle transport solution to match your needs and budget. Understanding the differences between each option helps ensure a smoother, stress-free relocation for you and your family.
Shipping your vehicle as part of a PCS or deployment doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you know what to expect. Follow these essential steps to streamline the process and make the most of your military discount.
Gather your documents – Military ID, PCS, or deployment orders.
These are required to verify your eligibility for military rates. Keep digital and hard copies on hand for quick reference during booking.
Get multiple quotes: Use Move Cars to compare trusted auto transporters.
Getting quotes from several carriers helps you find the best deal and helps verify you’re working with licensed, insured professionals. Make sure each quote includes a breakdown of costs and estimated delivery time.
Choose the transport type: Determine open or enclosed transport, based on your vehicle and needs. Consider your destination and also the vehicle’s value when deciding the type of shipping.
Confirm your discount: Guarantee the rate reflects your military status.
Some transports apply military discounts automatically, while others may require you to ask or submit proof. Always verify that the final quote includes your discount before booking.
Prepare your car: Clean the vehicle, remove personal items, and record any damage. A clean car makes inspections easier and helps document pre-shipping conditions. Disable alarms and leave only a quarter tank of gas in the tank.
Inspect upon delivery: Confirm the car’s condition and complete the paperwork. Compare the vehicle’s condition to the original inspection report and take photos if needed. Only sign the bill of lading once you’re satisfied everything is in order.
By following these steps, military members can ship their vehicles confidently and take full advantage of available discounts. Planning in advance results in a smoother experience and helps avoid delays or unexpected costs during your transition.
Choosing the right auto transport provider is crucial for a smooth and stress-free PCS move. Military families need more than just a good price; they need reliability, experience, and a company that understands the unique demands of military life. Here’s what to look for when hiring an auto transport company.
Always verify that the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and carries valid insurance. This protects your vehicle in case of damage or loss during transport.
Look for clear, upfront pricing and easy-to-understand military discount policies. A trustworthy company will explain what’s included and vow there are no hidden fees.
Choose a provider that regularly handles PCS moves and is familiar with base protocols. This experience helps avoid common delays and ensures timely delivery.
Reviews from fellow military personnel can reveal how well a company handles communication, flexibility, and deadlines. Positive feedback from others in uniform is often the most reliable endorsement.
Working with a military-friendly auto transport company can make all the difference during a hectic relocation. By focusing on trust, transparency, and military-specific experience, you’ll find a provider that treats your move with the professionalism and care it deserves.
At Move Cars, we simplify the car shipping process for military personnel by offering a centralized platform to find vetted transport companies. Additionally, the car shipping companies available on the platform provide military-specific discounts and services.
We allow quick comparison of rates, timelines, and options, and support base-to-base, nationwide, and overseas vehicle transport. Whether you need open shipping for a standard sedan or enclosed transport for a valuable vehicle, Move Cars helps you move your car with confidence.
Most companies offer discounts ranging from 5% to 20%, depending on the route and time of year.
Yes, many auto transporters have access to deliver directly to or near military installations.
Absolutely. Many companies offer auto transport military discounts for OCONUS destinations.
A valid military ID and your PCS or deployment orders are typically required.
Compare quotes now from trusted auto transport companies that support service members.
Find military auto transport discounts now!
Frequent relocations are challenging, but the right support makes a big difference. By leveraging car shipping military discounts, service members and their families can save money, reduce stress, and protect their vehicles during transitions. Move Cars makes it easy to find trusted, military-friendly transporters—compare quotes now and book with confidence.