Our top picks for the best military car shipping companies are Nexus Auto Transport, Sherpa Auto Transport, Navi Auto Transport, SGT Auto Transport, and Ship A Car Direct. These companies stand out for reliable PCS (permanent change of station) support, military discounts, nationwide coverage, and experience working with service members and their families.
Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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5 Best Car Shipping Companies for Military Moves
Why You Can Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint
Our mission at FreightWaves Checkpoint is to provide readers with data-driven, unbiased car shipping information and company reviews.
Using our proprietary rating system, we evaluated 2,400 car shipping companies nationwide based on pricing transparency, services, availability, and customer satisfaction. We also analyzed thousands of third-party reviews to identify consistent strengths and common pain points.
Our in-house team of experts fully fact-checks all content to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Military Car Shipping Options
Military members and their families typically have two car shipping options: a personally procured move (PPM) or a government-issued transport company.
- Personally procured move (PPM): You choose your own car shipping company and may be reimbursed by the government. This option gives you more control over pricing, timing, and service level, but you’ll handle scheduling and coordination.
- Government-issued transport company: The military arranges vehicle shipping and pays upfront. While this removes logistical work from your plate, you’ll have limited control over carrier selection and pickup timing.
Comparing the Best Military Car Shipping Companies
| Company | Best For | Services | Military Discount | State Availability | BBB (Better Business Bureau) Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nexus Auto Transport | Reliable PCS shipments | Cars, motorcycles, RVs, boats, golf carts | $100 | All 50 states | A+ |
| Sherpa Auto Transport | Military discounts | Cars | $100 | 48 states (not AK or HI) | A+ |
| Navi Auto Transport | Hands-on PCS support | Cars, motorcycles, heavy equipment | Up to 20% | All 50 states | Not accredited |
| SGT Auto Transport | Fast quotes & budget pricing | Cars, SUVs, motorcycles | Available (varies) | All 50 states | A+ |
| Ship A Car Direct | Vehicle protection & claims support | Cars, classic & luxury vehicles | Limited | All 50 states | A+ |
Most Reliable Military PCS Carrier: Nexus Auto Transport
From streamlined booking to consistent pickup coordination, Nexus Auto Transport brings structure and reliability to high-stress relocations. Its extensive carrier network and A+ BBB rating reflect a strong commitment to professionalism. Nexus offers tiered service levels and GPS shipment tracking, so you can stay informed during long-distance moves.
If you need predictable service and strong communication on a tight PCS timeline, Nexus is one of the safest choices available.
Nexus Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Dedicated PCS support
- Flexible service tiers
- GPS tracking available
- Nationwide coverage
Cons:
- No international shipping
- Deposit required
Best for Military Discounts: Sherpa Auto Transport
Sherpa Auto Transport is a strong choice if you want pricing and generous discounts. Sherpa offers a $100 military discount and backs quotes with its Price Lock Promise.
Sherpa works with thoroughly vetted carriers and provides expedited pickup options for CONUS moves. However, it does not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, or international destinations.
Sherpa Pros & Cons
Pros:
- $100 military discount
- Price Lock Promise
- Door-to-door service
- Strong customer reviews
Cons:
- No AK, HI, or international shipping
- Doesn’t ship motorcycles or RVs
- Final payment by certified funds
Best Support for Military Shipments: Navi Auto Transport
Navi Auto Transport is known for its customer-first approach. Each shipment is assigned a dedicated coordinator who assists with scheduling changes, documentation, and base access logistics.
Navi does not require an upfront deposit and offers flexible scheduling around PCS orders.
Navi Pros & Cons
Pros:
- No deposit required
- Flexible scheduling
- Price-match policy
Cons:
- No guaranteed pickup dates
- Limited international support
Best for Fast & Affordable Quotes: SGT Auto Transport
SGT Auto Transport is ideal for military members who need quick pricing and competitive rates. Its online quote system makes it easy to compare options when PCS timelines are tight.
SGT ships nationwide, including Alaska and Hawaii, and offers both open and enclosed transport. Military discounts are available, but vary by route.
SGT Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fast online quotes
- Competitive pricing
- AK & HI shipping available
Cons:
- Pickup dates not guaranteed
- Discounts vary
Best for High-Value Vehicles: Ship A Car Direct
Ship A Car Direct focuses on damage prevention and claims support, making it a top choice if you’re shipping a luxury, classic, or specialty vehicle.
The company screens carriers using internal damage data and provides hands-on guidance at pickup and delivery. Pricing may be higher, but protection and peace of mind are the tradeoff.
Ship A Car Direct Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Strong damage-prevention focus
- Claims assistance included
- Excellent reputation
Cons:
- Higher pricing
- Limited discounts
Our Military-Specific Review Methodology
Military moves come with unique challenges that don’t apply to standard civilian auto transport. To build this list, we evaluated each provider using a PCS-specific scoring system focused on discounts, scheduling flexibility, and experience shipping to and from military installations.
PCS Quote Collection (Military Lanes)
To reflect real-world military shipping scenarios, we collected and compared quotes across common PCS lane types, including:
- CONUS → CONUS routes: Typical base-to-base and state-to-state relocations
- CONUS → Alaska/Hawaii routes: Higher-complexity shipments with limited carrier availability
- OCONUS handoff guidance: We reviewed how each company explains international limitations, port requirements, and Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) coordination
In addition to price comparisons, we scored how clearly each provider explained pickup windows, delivery expectations, and documentation requirements for reimbursement.
How We Verify Military Discounts
We verify discount availability using one or more of the following methods:
- Customer service confirmation: Written confirmation from a sales representative via email or recorded quote notes
- Website policy verification: Published discount pages, FAQs, or military pricing statements
- Quote documentation: Discount line items included in emailed quotes or checkout summaries
- Screenshots: Captured evidence of military discount claims when available
Important note: Military discounts often vary by lane, vehicle type, and seasonal demand. If a company lists “discounts available,” it may not guarantee a fixed dollar amount on every route.
How We Score PCS Flexibility and Base Access Support
We also evaluate each company’s ability to handle military-specific logistics, including:
- Flexibility with PCS orders: How easily a shipment can be rescheduled if orders change
- Base access guidance: Whether the provider can coordinate with restricted-access installations or provide alternate pickup/drop-off solutions
- VPC awareness: Whether representatives understand common military shipping processes like Vehicle Processing Centers (VPCs), port handoffs, and documentation needs
- Reimbursement support: How clearly the company provides invoices and paperwork needed for PPM reimbursement
Companies earned higher scores when they offered clear timelines, proactive communication, and dedicated support staff familiar with military relocation requirements.
How We Choose the Best Car Shipping Companies Overall
We request quotes from dozens of car shipping companies, read thousands of customer reviews, evaluate service offerings, and more before landing on the best car shipping companies.
- Vetted licenses: We check that each company operate under valid USDOT/FMCSA (U.S. Department of Transportation/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) authority.
- Investigate customer satisfaction: We compare third-party reviews and Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings to get a clearer picture of reliability and complaint patterns.
- Compare shipping options: We look at transport types (open vs. enclosed), vehicle eligibility, and flexibility for changing timelines.
- Analyze pricing: We compare quote ranges, fee transparency, and whether discounts (including military discounts) are available.
- Prioritize PCS-fit features: We weigh factors that matter most for PCS moves, like communication, scheduling flexibility, base access experience, and documentation support.
How Much Does Military Car Shipping Cost?
Military car shipping costs vary based on your route, vehicle, timing, and transport type. As a general benchmark, the average cost for most car shipments ranges from $0.40 to $1.00 per mile. For many CONUS moves, you should expect to pay around $900–$1,500 per vehicle.
| Company | Average Price on Common PCS Routes 500 mi / 1,500 mi / 2,500+ mi |
Cancellation / Deposit | Guaranteed Pickup & Typical Lead Time | Base Delivery Notes | Military Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nexus Auto Transport |
$600 / $1,200 / $1,600+ |
$75 deposit; nonrefundable once carrier is dispatched | Quotes non-binding; typical pickup within ~1–7 days | Door-to-door available; base drop-off often possible; restricted bases vary by carrier | $100 military discount |
| Sherpa Auto Transport |
$650 / $1,250 / $1,700+ |
Carrier deposit usually at booking; final payment at delivery in certified funds | Price Lock Promise; pickup lead ~3–7 days | Door-to-door service including base housing in CONUS; no AK/HI shipments | $100 military discount |
| Navi Auto Transport |
$650 / $1,200 / $1,650+ |
No upfront deposit required; cancellation depends on assigned carrier | Flexible scheduling; pickup ~1–7+ days (express options available) | Nationwide door-to-door included; base delivery varies | Up to ~20% off |
| SGT Auto Transport |
$600 / $1,150 / $1,550+ |
No deposit until a carrier is assigned; cancellation terms per broker/carrier | Guaranteed pickup dates available; typical lead ~3–10 days | Door-to-door delivery; base and restricted access depends on carrier | Military discounts available |
| Ship A Car Direct |
$450 / $900 / $1,300+ |
No upfront deposit typical; cancellation subject to carrier terms | Same-day or quick pickup available | Nationwide door-to-door; base delivery varies by carrier | Discounts may vary |
Factors That Impact Your Costs
- Open transport or enclosed transport: Open shipping is the standard (and usually cheapest). Enclosed shipping provides added protection, but it can raise your quote by up to 50%.
- Distance: Longer routes cost more overall, but the cost per mile often drops as distance increases.
- Vehicle condition: Inoperable vehicles cost more because they require special equipment and handling.
- Vehicle make and model: Larger, heavier vehicles (like trucks and SUVs) generally cost more to ship than sedans.
- Time of year: Summer is peak season for PCS and civilian moves, which often means higher prices and tighter carrier availability.
- Location: Remote bases or rural pickup/drop-off points can increase cost due to fewer nearby carriers and longer deadhead miles.
Discounts For Military Car Shipping
Many car shipping companies offer military discounts, so we recommend you ask each company to apply any military, veteran, or dependent discounts you qualify for.
Here are the military discounts offered by our top picks:
- Sherpa Auto Transport: $100
- Nexus Auto Transport: $100
- Navi Auto Transport: Up to 20% off
- SGT Auto Transport: Military discounts available (varies; eligibility verification may be required)
- Ship A Car Direct: Discounts may be available (ask at booking; offers can vary)
FAQ
Does the military ship cars for free?
For eligible PCS moves involving an overseas duty station, the military may cover the cost to ship one POV. For most CONUS moves, service members usually pay out of pocket if using a private auto transport company.
How do I ship my car in the military?
If you use a government-arranged shipment, the military coordinates the transport and covers the cost (when eligible).
If you choose a personally procured move (PPM), you select the shipping company, book the shipment yourself, handle pickup/delivery logistics, then submit paperwork for reimbursement when applicable.
How many cars will the military ship for you?
For overseas PCS moves, the government generally covers transport for one POV. If you need to ship additional vehicles, you’ll typically pay for those privately.
Which car company has the best military discount?
Sherpa Auto Transport and Nexus Auto Transport both advertise a $100 military discount. Navi Auto Transport may offer up to 20% off, depending on your shipment. SGT Auto Transport and Ship A Car Direct may also offer military-related discounts or promotions, but the amount can vary.
Who is the most reliable car transport company?
Reliability comes down to clear communication, consistent carrier availability, and accurate pickup/delivery windows. For military moves, Nexus Auto Transport and Sherpa Auto Transport are often strong picks because they’re built around structured coordination and predictable processes. If you’re on a tight timeline, compare at least three quotes and ask each company how quickly they can secure a carrier for your specific route.
Can I ship a second vehicle CONUS and get reimbursed?
In most CONUS moves, shipping a second vehicle with a private auto transporter is typically out of pocket. Reimbursement (if any) depends on your orders and what your branch authorizes—so check with your local transportation office/finance team before booking if you’re expecting repayment.
What’s the difference between a broker and a carrier for PCS?
A carrier owns the truck and physically moves your vehicle. A broker coordinates the shipment by matching your route and dates with an available carrier, then manages scheduling and communication. Many “car shipping companies” are brokers.
Can a carrier pick up from on-base housing?
Sometimes. It depends on the base’s access rules and the carrier’s ability to enter (credentials, escort requirements, restricted hours, etc.). If base access is limited, the carrier may meet you at a nearby visitor lot or another agreed public location close to the gate.
What paperwork do I need for reimbursement (PPM)?
Requirements can vary by branch and situation, but commonly you’ll need your orders, proof of payment/receipts for the shipment, and documentation showing the vehicle was transported (like the bill of lading/condition report). Keep copies of everything and confirm the exact list with your transportation office before you submit.
How early should I book if my orders are tentative?
As soon as you have a realistic window. Many companies can note that your dates are tentative and you can update later. Booking earlier can help with carrier availability (especially in summer), but ask about cancellation/deposit terms so you’re not locked in if your report date changes.
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Nexus Auto Transport
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Sherpa Auto Transport
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Navi Auto Transport
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Our Take
If reliability is your top priority, Nexus and Sherpa are excellent choices. For fast quotes and lower pricing, SGT Auto Transport stands out. And if you’re shipping a high-value vehicle, Ship A Car Direct offers added peace of mind.
Remember, service members with PCS orders may be eligible to ship one privately owned vehicle (POV) at the government’s expense for certain overseas moves. If you’re shipping more than one vehicle or moving CONUS, you’ll typically be responsible for the cost.
