Want to save money on your next PCS move? Moving your vehicle during a military relocation doesn’t have to break the bank. With 25% of active-duty service members relocating annually, finding cost-effective auto transport solutions has become more important than ever.
Here’s the problem…
Most military families don’t know the strategies that can save them hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars on vehicle shipping. And with 63% of military families now owning two vehicles compared to just 41% in 2015, the costs add up fast.
But here’s the good news:
By using the right strategies and working with experienced military auto transport companies, you can dramatically reduce your out-of-pocket expenses while ensuring your vehicle arrives safely at your new duty station.
Your Essential Guide Contains:
- Understanding Military Auto Transport Costs
- Smart Timing Strategies That Save Money
- Government Reimbursement Maximization
- Choosing Between Transport Options
- Finding Military-Friendly Companies
Understanding Military Auto Transport Costs
Military auto transport costs vary dramatically based on several factors you need to understand…
The truth is that military POV shipments cost approximately $1,190 on average. But prices can range from about $660 for shorter distances to over $2,000 for cross-country moves.
Here’s what affects your final price:
- Distance: Longer routes cost more overall but less per mile
- Vehicle size: SUVs and trucks cost more than sedans
- Transport method: Open carriers vs enclosed transport
- Timing: Peak season moves are more expensive
- Delivery options: Door-to-door vs terminal pickup
Want to know the biggest cost factor most people miss?
Seasonal demand. Military moves peak during summer months, which drives up prices significantly. The same move that costs $900 in February might cost $1,400 in July.
But don’t worry… There are proven ways to work around these cost increases.
Smart Timing Strategies That Save Money
Timing your military auto transport booking is one of the easiest ways to save serious cash.
Working with trusted military auto transport companies during off-peak periods can result in significant savings while maintaining service quality.
Here’s why timing matters so much:
Most military families receive PCS orders during spring and summer months. This creates massive demand spikes that transport companies capitalize on with higher prices.
The secret? Book your transport during off-peak periods whenever possible.
Peak season months to avoid:
- May through August
- January (post-holiday moves)
Best money-saving months:
- September through November
- February through April
But here’s the kicker…
Even if you’re moving during peak season, you can still save money by booking early. Companies offer better rates for advance bookings because it helps them plan their routes more efficiently.
Pro tip: Book at least 4-6 weeks in advance for the best rates, even during busy seasons.
Government Reimbursement Maximization
Understanding government reimbursements can put hundreds of dollars back in your pocket.
For OCONUS moves, the military typically covers one POV shipment completely. But CONUS moves are different…
Here’s what you need to know:
The military provides mileage reimbursement through the Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT) for up to two vehicles. This reimbursement is based on the official mileage between duty stations.
For families with multiple vehicles, you have options:
- Drive one vehicle and claim MALT
- Ship additional vehicles at your own expense
- Combine strategies for maximum savings
Smart strategy: If you own two vehicles, drive the more fuel-efficient one and ship the other. This maximizes your MALT reimbursement while minimizing shipping costs.
Choosing Between Transport Options
Not all transport methods are created equal when it comes to cost-effectiveness.
Open carrier transport is your most budget-friendly option. Your vehicle rides on an open trailer with other cars, exposed to weather but perfectly safe for most situations.
Enclosed transport costs significantly more but provides premium protection. This option makes sense for luxury vehicles, classics, or when shipping to areas with harsh weather conditions.
Here’s the cost breakdown:
- Open transport: 30-50% less expensive
- Enclosed transport: Premium protection at higher cost
The truth is that 90% of military vehicles ship perfectly fine on open carriers. Unless your vehicle is exceptionally valuable or you have specific concerns, open transport delivers excellent value.
Finding Military-Friendly Companies
Working with companies that understand military needs can save you both money and headaches.
Look for these military-specific benefits:
- Military discounts (typically $25-$100 off)
- Flexible pickup/delivery windows
- Understanding of PCS timelines
- Experience with base access requirements
- Power of Attorney acceptance
Top military discounts available:
- Some companies offer up to $100 military discounts
- Others provide percentage-based savings
- Many extend discounts to family members
But here’s what most people don’t realize…
The biggest savings don’t always come from advertised military discounts. The real value comes from companies that understand military logistics and can work within your PCS timeline efficiently.
Red flags to avoid:
- Companies requiring large upfront deposits
- No physical address or DOT registration
- Prices significantly below market rates
- Poor military-specific reviews
Advanced Cost-Saving Strategies
Ready to take your savings to the next level?
Terminal-to-terminal shipping can save you $100-300 per shipment. Instead of door-to-door service, you drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated terminals in major cities.
Flexible date shipping offers another opportunity for savings. If you can be flexible with your pickup and delivery dates within a 1-2 week window, companies often provide discounts.
Multiple vehicle discounts apply when shipping more than one vehicle. Many companies offer reduced rates for second vehicles when shipped together.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Maximum Value
Proper preparation protects your investment and prevents additional charges.
Essential preparation steps:
- Remove all personal items (companies aren’t liable for contents)
- Disable car alarms and anti-theft devices
- Ensure fuel tank is 1/4 full or less
- Document existing damage with photos
- Check tire pressure and fluid levels
Why this saves money:
Proper preparation prevents delays, additional fees, and damage claims that could cost you hundreds of dollars down the road.
International Shipping Considerations
OCONUS moves require special planning but offer unique cost-saving opportunities.
Container consolidation allows multiple vehicles to share shipping container space, reducing individual costs. Service members shipping a second vehicle typically pay between $900-$2,000 per vehicle for overseas destinations.
Making Your Final Decision
The best military auto transport strategy combines multiple cost-saving approaches.
Your action plan:
- Book during off-peak periods when possible
- Compare quotes from multiple military-friendly companies
- Maximize government reimbursements
- Choose appropriate transport method for your vehicle
- Prepare properly to avoid additional fees
Bottom line: With proper planning and the right strategies, military families can save 20-40% on auto transport costs while ensuring reliable, professional service.
Bringing It All Together
Military auto transport doesn’t have to drain your bank account during an already expensive PCS move.
By understanding the factors that affect pricing, timing your bookings strategically, and working with companies that specialize in military moves, you can achieve significant savings without sacrificing quality or reliability.
Remember these key strategies:
- Book early during off-peak periods
- Maximize government reimbursements through MALT
- Choose the right transport method for your needs
- Work with military-friendly companies offering real value
- Prepare your vehicle properly to avoid extra charges
The money you save on auto transport can be better spent on other aspects of your PCS move or simply kept in your pocket where it belongs.
Start implementing these strategies for your next military move and see the difference smart planning makes to your bottom line.