5 Best Car Shipping Companies for Military Moves (2026)
In This Article
- Top Car Shipping Companies for Military Relocations
- Understanding Military Car Shipping Costs
- Military Car Shipping Discounts
- How to Select the Best Car Shipping Company for Your Military Move
- Preparing Your Vehicle for Military Transport
- Related Guides: Best Car Shipping Companies for Military Moves
- Frequently Asked Questions About Military Car Shipping
- Your Trusted Partner for Military Relocations
This guide ranks the best car shipping companies for military moves in 2026, comparing pricing, military discounts and what each company offers.
The leading car shipping companies for military moves in 2026 are **Nexus Auto Transport** for overall value, **Sherpa Auto Transport** for their transparent, guaranteed pricing, and **Navi Auto Transport** as an excellent budget-conscious choice. Many of these trusted providers offer significant military discounts, often $100 or more, and importantly, none require an upfront deposit – a crucial flexibility when PCS orders can change unexpectedly.Top Car Shipping Companies for Military Relocations
When planning your next military move, here’s a closer look at the companies that stand out for their service, reliability, and commitment to supporting service members.Nexus Auto Transport: Best Overall Value
Nexus Auto Transport consistently offers exceptional value, balancing competitive pricing with robust service, making it a top choice for military families. They provide a comprehensive experience without the premium cost, featuring real-time GPS tracking, flexible pickup scheduling, and dedicated customer support.Nexus understands the unique needs of military personnel, offering tiered shipping options (budget, standard, expedited) to fit various timelines and a **$100 military discount**. Every military shipping request is assigned a dedicated PCS support coordinator, ensuring personalized assistance throughout your move. While they don’t handle international shipments, their nationwide service is highly reliable.At a Glance:- 4.7/5 Rating
- Licensed and Insured
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Dedicated PCS support coordinator
Sherpa Auto Transport: Best for Guaranteed Prices
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with its **Price Lock Promise**, ensuring the initial quote you receive is the final price you pay, eliminating unwelcome surprises. This transparency is invaluable for budgeting during a military relocation from Savannah, Georgia and the surrounding bases within the regions of Savannah and Tybee Island for local military moving servicesThey offer one of the industry’s best military discounts, providing **$100 off your total quote**. Sherpa also prides itself on thoroughly vetting its carriers, who must carry at least $1 million in liability insurance, contributing to their high customer satisfaction. As an added benefit, they reimburse customers for car wash expenses upon delivery. Keep in mind that Sherpa does not offer international shipping or transport RVs.At a Glance:- 4.5/5 Rating
- Licensed and Insured
- Price Lock Promise for guaranteed quotes
- Free car wash reimbursement
- No upfront deposit required
Navi Auto Transport: Best for Budget-Conscious Options
For military families prioritizing affordability without compromising service, Navi Auto Transport is an excellent choice. They simplify the car shipping process with clear pricing, no upfront payments, and a team ready to accommodate your schedule.Navi is known for securing competitive rates and offers a **price-match policy** to ensure you get the best deal. Their auto shipping flexibility is a significant advantage, especially with the unpredictable nature of military moving orders; they are quick to adjust plans if your schedule shifts. They also provide one-day pickup options, though international shipping is limited, and they do not transport RVs or boats.At a Glance:- 4.4/5 Rating
- Licensed and Insured
- Price-match policy
- One-day pickup availability
- No deposit required
SGT Auto Transport: Best for Accurate Pricing
SGT Auto Transport provides transparent and binding quotes, ensuring there are no hidden fees. Their estimates comprehensively cover all aspects of car transport, including insurance, giving you peace of mind whether you’re moving from Lawrenceville, moving from Buford, moving from Johns Creek, or relocating from out of state or from across the country.Ideal for those who prefer not to drive their vehicle cross-country, SGT Auto Transport offers **door-to-door service** in most states and provides specific pickup dates, though delivery times are estimates. They are highly regarded for their customer service.Note that they do not service Alaska, ship RVs, or offer digital shipment tracking.At a Glance:- 4.9/5 Rating
- Licensed and Insured
- Binding, no-hidden-fee quotes
- Free online quotes for multiple vehicles
- Exact pickup dates provided
RoadRunner Auto Transport: Best for Nationwide Direct Transport
With over 30 years of experience, RoadRunner Auto Transport is a well-established broker in the vehicle shipping industry, particularly adept at handling military moves. Their extensive network of thoroughly vetted carriers spans all 50 states, plus Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, making them ideal for wide-ranging relocations from any region in the USA; whether your moving locally to or from Georgia, moving from the North or South Carolina region, or moving from Florida, they’ll be able to assist you with any auto transport services needed nationwide!RoadRunner requires **no upfront deposit** and offers convenient door-to-door service with online shipment tracking and continuous customer support. Active duty service members, veterans, retirees, reservists, and National Guard members are all eligible for a **10% rebate (up to $100)** on all vehicle shipping services. They typically work best with two to three weeks of lead time for optimal scheduling.At a Glance:- 4/5 Rating
- Licensed and Insured
- No upfront deposit required
- 10% military rebate (up to $100)
- Serves all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean
Understanding Military Car Shipping Costs
Several elements influence the final cost of shipping your vehicle. Being aware of these factors helps you better budget for your move and understand your quotes.Key Factors Influencing Your Car Shipping Quote:
- Open vs. Enclosed Transport: This is often the largest cost differentiator. **Enclosed transport** offers superior protection from weather and road debris but can cost up to twice as much as standard **open transport**, where your vehicle is exposed on an open trailer.
- Expedited Shipping: If your timeline is tight and you need a guaranteed pickup or faster delivery, expect to pay a premium for priority service.
- Distance of Travel: Longer distances naturally incur higher fuel, labor, and operational costs. However, many companies offer a reduced per-mile rate for extensive cross-country relocations.
- Vehicle Type: Larger, heavier vehicles or those requiring extra space will generally cost more to transport than standard sedans due to increased fuel consumption and specific carrier requirements.
- Time of Year: Seasonal demand heavily impacts pricing. Shipping during off-peak seasons for your route, such as late fall or early spring, can often result in lower rates.
- Additional Services: Specific add-ons, like gap insurance to cover your personal policy’s deductible, can increase your overall shipping quote.
Military Car Shipping Discounts
Many reputable auto transport companies recognize the service of military members by offering valuable discounts. Here’s a summary of the savings you can expect from our top recommendations:- Nexus Auto Transport: $100 discount
- Sherpa Auto Transport: $100 discount
- Navi Auto Transport: Up to 20% off
- SGT Auto Transport: Up to 10% off
- RoadRunner Auto Transport: 10% rebate, up to $100
How to Select the Best Car Shipping Company for Your Military Move
Choosing the right partner for your vehicle’s journey requires careful consideration. Beyond our top picks, here are essential factors to guide your decision:Available Transport Services
Confirm the company’s capabilities. Do they offer both open and enclosed transport? Can they handle overseas moves, or even shipments to non-contiguous states like Alaska or Hawaii? Not all providers offer the full spectrum of services.Customer Reviews and Reputation
Always research customer satisfaction. Check independent review platforms, Google, and Yelp for authentic feedback. A company’s track record with military families, specifically, can provide valuable insight.Transit Times and Scheduling
Inquire about estimated transit times and scheduling availability. Delivery dates, especially for long-distance or international moves, can vary significantly, so align these with your PCS timeline.Proper Licensing and Insurance
A reputable car shipper will always be properly licensed and insured. They should readily provide proof of their credentials and issue a Bill of Lading, a crucial legal document detailing the shipment. Always confirm their coverage limits.Transparent Transport Costs
Obtain at least three quotes from different providers. Ensure each quote covers identical services to allow for an accurate, apples-to-apples comparison. Be wary of quotes that seem unusually low.Consult Your Moving Company
If you’re already working with a moving company that offers military discounts, ask if they also provide car shipping services. Bundling your household goods and vehicle transport could potentially streamline your move and offer additional savings. Many movers also offer professional packing services to help protect your belongings during a PCS move.Planning a Move? Get Your Free Quote
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Preparing Your Vehicle for Military Transport
Proper preparation ensures a smooth and secure car shipping experience. Follow these industry best practices before your vehicle is picked up:- Gather Essential Documents: Have your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, title or proof of ownership, and your driver’s license readily accessible.
- Thoroughly Clean Your Vehicle: A clean car, both inside and out, is crucial. For vehicles shipping from outside the continental United States (OCONUS) into the U.S., a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) cleanliness inspection is mandatory. Your vehicle must be completely free of dirt, plant life, and animal matter.
- Document Existing Damage: After cleaning, take detailed, date-stamped photos or videos of any pre-existing dents, scratches, or damage. This documentation is vital for accurately completing the condition report and for any potential insurance claims later.
- Remove Personal Items: For safety and insurance reasons, most personal belongings should be removed from the vehicle. Exceptions typically include hand tools, child car seats, a spare tire, and vehicle-specific tools like jacks or jumper cables.
- Adjust Fuel Level: Vehicle transporters generally require the gas tank to be no more than a quarter-full for shipment. This reduces weight and enhances safety during transit.
Related Guides: Best Car Shipping Companies for Military Moves
This article is part of our How a Long Distance Move Works guide, our complete resource on long-distance moving. These related articles cover the next steps:
- Auto Shipping Services
- Long-Distance Moving Companies
- Alternatives to Renting a Moving Truck for Interstate Moves
- Moving Road Trip Checklist
Need a hand? Explore our long-distance moving services or get a free moving quote. Before you hire any mover, you can verify its USDOT number with the FMCSA’s Protect Your Move resource.
Frequently Asked Questions About Military Car Shipping
Will the military cover the cost of shipping my car during a PCS move?
Generally, the military does not cover the cost of shipping a privately owned vehicle (POV) within the continental United States (CONUS) for a PCS move. However, the Department of Defense will typically reimburse the cost of shipping one vehicle for overseas PCS moves. If you need to ship additional vehicles internationally, you will be responsible for those costs.How much does it cost to ship a car for a military move?
The average cost to ship a car within the United States is around $1,000, though military members often pay less due to available discounts. The final price varies significantly based on distance, vehicle size, transport type (open vs. enclosed), and the time of year. Cross-country shipments typically range from $800 to $1,500 for open transport. Overseas moves have highly variable costs depending on the destination and may be fully or partially reimbursed by the DoD for qualifying PCS orders. Always obtain quotes from at least three providers to secure the most competitive rate.What are the military’s car shipping requirements?
To ship a POV for a military move, you will typically need to provide proof of entitlement (your PCS orders), proof of identity (military ID), and proof of ownership (vehicle title or registration). If your vehicle is leased or financed, you will also need written authorization from your lien holder or leasing company to permit its transport.Your Trusted Partner for Military Relocations
A military move, whether it’s a local transfer within Georgia or a cross-country PCS, demands precision and reliability. Choosing the right car shipping company can significantly reduce stress, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home, whether that’s in Atlanta, Florida, Tennessee, Florida, or another distant military base.Our goal is to provide trusted, expert advice to make your transition smoother. From understanding the nuances of open versus enclosed transport to maximizing military discounts, we’re here to help across our service areas. Take the stress out of your next long-distance move by securing reliable vehicle transport with our Georgia movers.Contact Budget Moving Services today and get 10% off your move! Voted as one of the most affordable and top-rated moving service locally and nationwide! Call today (561) 788-5070 and get a fast, free, and transparent moving quote tailored to your specific military relocation needs!Ready to move? Get an instant estimate with our Moving Cost Calculator, check our current pricing, follow our Weekly Moving Checklist, and estimate your boxes with our Moving Supplies Calculator. Get a free quote in under 5 minutes or call us at (561) 788-5070 for fast, friendly service.
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Atlanta | Budget Moving Services
Local Moving and Storage Company Owner since 2010 in Metro-Atlanta and Gwinnet County for Residential, Commercial, and Specialty Moves such as Senior Moving, Military Moving Services, and more. The agents at Budget Moving and I also work as Real Estate Agents in Atlanta, Florida, and North Carolina. We also work with agents in various industries relating to Real Estate Property Development for Residential and Commercial Properties, Moving and Storage, and Logistics in order to understand and offer a stress-free full-service moving and storage service-based solution. Which is also why we specialize in residential, commercial, military, senior, and junk removal services and gather different POVs in multiple industries to provide our past, present, and future consumers with as much information as possible.Moving industry professional.