Military Car Shipping vs. Government-Provided Vehicle Transport: Which Is Better?

Military life, in general, imposes the responsibility of chronic relocations. The PCS orders carry travelling over the country and sometimes overseas for the service member and their families. One of the most significant logistical issues that come up in a PCS move is how to get your car from point A to point B. While the government offers some entitlements under the Military PCS Vehicle Shipping, there are lots of service members who still shop for other options of private car shipping.

So which should one choose: private company military car shipping, or government-provided vehicle transport?

Together, Transport Masters USA has assisted thousands of military families by navigating this very question. This article compares both options on price, convenience, timing, flexibility, and overall experience for your best choice fitting your individual circumstance.

Government-Provided Vehicle Transport: How It Works

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) offers to ship one Privately Owned Vehicle (POV) for eligible service members during certain PCS moves, particularly overseas (OCONUS) relocations. This service is managed through the Defense Personal Property Program (DP3) and usually involves working with a government-approved vehicle processing center (VPC).

✅ Pros of Government-Provided Shipping:

1. Costs Covered (for One Vehicle):

 If you qualify, one vehicle shipment is covered by the government, a heavy financial weight from the shoulders–mainly in an overseas move. 

2. Standardized Process: 

Since the DoD follows a single set of guidelines, you can expect all procedures, from paperwork and inspections to timeframes, to be well known. 

3. No Extra Payment: 

As it is generally a government-supplied service, most of the costs will be covered by your PCS orders.

❌ Cons of Government-Provided Shipping:

1. Limited Flexibility:

 Shipment can only be arranged to/from specified VPCs, which might be far away from your actual place of residence. This might translate to more driving and more car rental expenses.

2. One Vehicle Limit:

 Many military families own two or maybe more vehicles. The government will only pay to ship one; the remaining vessels are your responsibility. 

3. Longer Delivery Times:

Government processing can be slow. Some servicemembers have reported waiting for weeks and in some cases for months before their vehicle arrived, especially with overseas shipping.

4. Less Control Over Carrier Selection:

 In terms of your actual carrier, you are afforded little if any input. Should issues arise, exacerbating problem-solving can eventually become a substantial concern.

Private Military Car Shipping with Transport Masters USA

Private auto transport companies like Transport Masters USA offer customized Car Shipping For Military Personnel. We specialize in both domestic and international moves and work hard to simplify the vehicle shipping process for military families.

✅ Pros of Private Military Car Shipping:

1. Flexible Pickup and Delivery Options:
   We offer door-to-door service, so your car can be picked up from your current home and delivered right to your new location—no VPC visits required.
2. Ship More Than One Vehicle:
   Need to move multiple vehicles? We’ve got you covered. You can ship any number of vehicles and even get discounts for multi-car bookings.
3. Faster Shipping Times:
   We tailor our services to meet your timeline, with expedited options available if you need your car sooner.
4. Customer Control:
   You choose your shipping date, carrier type (open or enclosed), and service level. We keep you in the loop every step of the way.
5. Specialized Military Discounts:
   We’re proud to support our troops. At Transport Masters USA, we offer exclusive military discounts on all vehicle shipping services.

❌ Cons of Private Military Car Shipping:

1. Upfront Cost:
   If you’re not eligible for government reimbursement, you’ll need to cover the cost yourself. However, with discounts and competitive pricing, many families find it affordable.
2. More Research Required:
   Not all car shipping companies are created equal. You’ll need to do some homework to find a trustworthy provider like Transport Masters USA.

Comparing Both Options: Head-to-Head

When to Choose Government Transport

• You’re moving overseas and only need to ship one vehicle.
• You want to save money and are okay with slower delivery.
• You’re comfortable working within the DoD’s schedule and guidelines.

When to Choose Private Military Car Shipping

• You’re moving within the continental U.S. (CONUS) and want door-to-door convenience.
• You have more than one vehicle or a specialty car (motorcycle, classic car, etc.).
• You’re on a tight schedule and need your vehicle delivered quickly.
• You want more control and personalized customer service.

Why Military Families Choose Transport Masters USA

At Transport Masters USA, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with military life. That’s why we go above and beyond to provide reliable, affordable, and flexible Military PCS Vehicle Shipping options. Our mission is to serve those who serve by offering:

• Transparent pricing
• No hidden fees
• Flexible scheduling
• Safe, insured transport
• 24/7 support

Whether you’re headed to a new base stateside or moving to another country, our team is here to ensure your vehicle gets there safely and on time.

Final Thoughts

Depending on your circumstance, one may favor vehicle shipping from the government versus private car transport. If cost is your paramount concern and you’re shipping just a single vehicle abroad, government transport will probably do. But given that you value speed, flexibility, and simple control-or need to send more than one vehicle-Transport Masters USA is ready to make it happen.  

Life in the military is unpredictable, but car shipping need not be one of them! Think of a company that respects your service by every mile we deliver.

Planning your next trip? Contact Transport Masters USA today for a free quote and ask about Car Shipping For Military Personnel.