Time to move again. You're on your third move to another military base, this time to one in Louisiana. It likely won't be your last one, either.
Military families often move every 2-3 years, meaning a family could be uprooted as many as six times in 20 years. The constant moves help the federal government cover its missions and operations needs. That also puts a lot of stress on families when trying to quickly adjust to a new base and have a personal vehicle on hand for errands, assignments, and family needs.
Have you considered shipping a car to a military base instead of driving it? Shipping to military bases can help make your future moves easier. Let's explore why you should ship to a military base and the auto-shipping costs to military bases.
Does the Army Ship Your Car to a New Military Base?
As of this writing, the Army will ship one POV (Privately Owned Vehicle) on your behalf only when you’re based overseas. Anything within the states (CONUS-to-CONUS) will require you to drive the car yourself or arrange reliable nationwide shipping with a team like Nexus Auto Transport.
You and your spouse might be tempted to drive both of your vehicles to your new military base. This may not be a smart move for a couple of reasons.
- Driving your cars will rack up miles.
- Maintaining the vehicles will also cost you more since you'll have to perform oil changes or tune-ups sooner.
- You’ll need to pay for hotels, gas, and other roadside entertainment.
- You may have specialized gear that cannot be transported safely without licensing or escort services.
- You have family, pets, and all kinds of school and work schedules to manage.
Transporting at least one of your vehicles with a military car shipping company like Nexus Auto Transport is a better option. It'll prolong that car's life and save you on long-term maintenance, while handling all the coordination of shipping so you can focus on your family and getting to your next station on time.
If you’re considering selling at least one of your cars before you move to your next military duty station, try a fast solution like listing the car online through Craigslist or Facebook. Local-stationed families will likely trust buying from a fellow service member more than searching elsewhere.
Just remember that the best time to sell a car is in the spring or summer. The pleasant weather may entice more buyers to shop for a vehicle for upcoming vacations, and tax refunds might make buying their cars easier.
Military POV Auto Shipping Options Comparison
Key Factor |
Personally Driving |
Open Carrier Auto Transport |
Enclosed Carrier Auto Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
Mileage and Mechanical Wear |
High: all trip miles increase wear on tires, brakes, and engine components |
None |
None |
Exposure to Weather and Road Debris |
High: vehicle is exposed throughout the entire journey |
Moderate: vehicle is exposed while on the carrier |
Minimal: vehicle is protected from weather and debris |
Overall Transit Time and Convenience |
Requires personal travel time, fuel stops, lodging, and route planning |
Allows focus on PCS relocation, family, and reporting requirements |
Highly convenient |
High-Value or Modified Vehicles |
Less ideal for specialty and modified vehicles due to wear |
Suitable for most standard POVs and daily drivers |
Best option for luxury, classic, collectible, or heavily modified vehicles |
Alignment with PCS Entitlements and Reimbursement Rules |
Often aligns with standard mileage reimbursement programs when authorized |
May qualify for reimbursement only under specific PCS circumstances |
Typically treated similarly to open transport but may involve additional out-of-pocket costs |
Will the Military Ship My Car After I Receive New Orders?
Again, the military will likely only ship your car at their expense if you’re being deployed or stationed overseas. There are some exceptions based on your rank, service history, MOS perks, and what base you’ll be serving.
Always ensure you’ve received your military assignment orders before hiring an auto shipping company. Your active duty order will determine the entitlements you're eligible for during a move. It'll also tell you when you must begin your move.
Ship to a Military Base: Entitlements
Taking advantage of the federal government's dollars will make your permanent change of station (PCS) experience easier. The great news is that the military can ship your car for free in certain situations.
- CONUS: The military will cover some CONUS shipping for specific medical or timeline considerations.
- OCONUS: Moves that include relocations to Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and other international locations.
Important Funding Considerations
Remember that the federal government's CONUS funding is available only for a move that the government handles. It also tends to ship cars from military base to military base, rather than to private areas, without prior authorization.
You’ll need to:
- Verify your orders to ensure your POV is allowed.
- Visit the transportation office or call the Personal Property Resources office of your branch.
- Use official portals such as the DPS or Move.mil.
- Prepare your vehicle with proper documentation and cleanliness standards.
You can also ship with a do-it-yourself (DIY) relocation, where you manage the logistics. Some military personnel prefer DIY moves to avoid potential losses, damages, or delays that might occur with government-managed moves.
Another important consideration is that CONUS funding is available only for married couples if both parties drive. You must also drive one car and transport the second one simultaneously.
Your entire family must be in the vehicle as well. The government won't cover the cost of flying certain family members while the others drive. That may require taking out a loan, using a credit card, or contacting the Transport for Troops Application.
Shipping a Car to a Military Base: The Shipper
Let's say you're eligible for federal government funding since you've agreed to let them handle it, and you're driving one car and shipping the other. The government will manage your move logistics.
You'll need to find an auto transport service and handle the move yourself if you don't qualify for funding. The best auto transport companies have years of experience helping military people moving from state to state.
Shipping Tips
You’ll want to plan your move around knowing does the army ship your car. That will take some early preparation that might include:
- Meeting with your military travel office counselor earlier and often.
- Expecting delays if shipping through the military shipping process.
- Getting your car fixed on base before shipping to reduce the risk of damage on the road.
If you go with a third-party provider like Nexus Auto Transport, you should:
- Clean the inside and out of the vehicle
- Remove any personal items before shipping
- Double-check fluids and battery health
- Keep the gas tank to around ¼ full
- Have copies of your orders, title, and insurance, and make sure there is a bill of lading
- Get pre- and post-inspections for base-to-base military shipping
Remember that the government won't cover the cost of shipping any vehicle with an open recall. Hire a mechanic to address your car's recall-related issues before scheduling auto shipping. These car problems could range from faulty seatbelts to malfunctioning taillights.
Shipping Costs to Military Bases
How much does it cost to ship a car to another state? The answer depends on multiple factors. These include everything from the car’s model to its size, weight, and clearance. There’s also a big difference between open and enclosed auto shipping.
Open auto transport involves shipping your car on a trailer with no sides. It's a more cost-effective shipping option than enclosed transport, where your vehicle travels on a hauler with protective sides. Enclosed shipping is best for transporting rare or classic vehicles, as you don't want them to be damaged by road debris or weather.
A car shipping calculator can help you determine your auto costs. Moving calculators are also available to help families and movers determine the cost of moving goods from one duty station to another. Look specifically for military movers since they're used to working on the federal government's tight timelines.
How Can Nexus Auto Transport Help with Your Move
Shipping to military bases is a convenient way to get your car to your next duty station. Shipping costs to military bases depend on the transport distance.
We're well-versed in shipping a car from one military base to another. Get a free quote to ship to a military base today!
FAQs
Can your transport carriers deliver my vehicle directly onto a restricted military base?
Yes, but that requires a Bill of Lading, coordination with both bases, and a copy of your official orders to accompany the vehicle. In most cases, the carrier will arrange with you to meet outside restricted areas, just so it’s easier on everyone involved.
How far in advance of my official PCS report date should I schedule the auto shipment?
As early as you possibly can. That will help you save money and get the best route for your specific reassignment.
Will Nexus Auto provide the specific documentation required to support my Personally Procured Move claim?
Nexus can provide a Bill of Lading and coordinate paperwork in accordance with standard military base procedures. Anything outside that norm may require a copy of your orders or confirmation from base command.
Am I permitted to pack military gear or personal belongings inside my privately owned vehicle during transport?
Not with Nexus. The carrier's insurance does not cover personal items and may increase the delivery weight. That includes removing any ordnance in your POV before shipping.
Are there specific preparation requirements for shipping lifted trucks or oversized vehicles to a new duty station?
Nexus works with dealers, long-haul truckers, and heavy equipment operators. Our massive network of vetted carriers includes those capable of managing oversized vehicles from the military.
