Shipping Your Vehicle: What You Need to Know for Your Next Permanent Change of Station

Are you planning to bring with you your vehicle to your next Permanent Change of Station? If you are, then this is the right page for you. This article contains valuable information about Hawaii car transport and how to ship your vehicle efficiently when PCSing. 

How Much Does Shipping Your Vehicle Cost when PCSing? 

Many assume that shipping your vehicle when you are PCSing is shouldered by Uncle Sam. However, that is not always the case. You can only avail of your privately owned vehicle or POV’s free shipping if you are transferring to and from an overseas location. 

However, this is also only applicable for one vehicle. Suppose you have a second one, you might have to pay for the transportation on your own plus the importation taxes, which can be quite expensive. 

The vehicle that you wish to ship must be indicated in your orders. You have the option to use an alternate port. However, it must be approved by MTMC or the military traffic management command beforehand. 

Suppose you are being stationed from or two another location within the United States. In that case, the cost for the vehicle shipping can differ depending on the following factors: 

• Weight and Size

The weight and size of the vehicle are the main determining factor of the cost of its transportation. Bigger and heavier ones cost more than compact vehicles. 

• Type of Delivery

There are two main types of delivery options available; enclosed and open. The open option is the one that is more affordable. However, the safer choice for your vehicle is the enclosed option.  

• Time of Delivery

There are particular times of the year where the cost of vehicle shipping will be more expensive. Check the availability and rate difference with your chosen vehicle transportation company. 

• Insurance

Cars with modification often cost more in terms of the insurance. Also, those that require special handling, such as vintage vehicles, will have a more expensive premium. 

How Long Does it Take for the Vehicle To Arrive? 

Your vehicle’s delivery time depends on the distance of the pick-up point and the delivery port. Typically, it’s around 5 to 10 working days for domestic shipping and 2 to 4 weeks for international shipping. 

However, take note that this is just a rough estimate, and there might be delays along the way, especially due to unforeseeable circumstances such as storms and other natural disasters. 

Tips on How to Make Shipping Your Vehicle on Your Next PCS More Convenient

Now that you have a better idea about shipping your vehicle for your next PCS, here are some tips that will help make things easier and more continent for you: 

Tip 1: Select a Reliable Shipping Company

The main purpose of vehicle shipping companies is to ease the burden for you when transporting vehicles. The same idea also applies if you are shipping your vehicle for your next PCS. 

You can easily identify whether a company is reliable or not from the moment that you request for a quotation. If they reply immediately, it is a good sign that they take their customer service care seriously. 

It is also important to check military forums and review sites for vehicle shipping companies that are worth considering. These commonly have honest reviews and feedback with regards to customer’s experience with the company’s services. 

Tip 2: Have All the Necessary Documents Needed

Another tip that will make things easier for you is to ensure that all documents pertaining to your vehicle are prepared and updated. This includes vehicle registration and insurances. 

Most companies will require you to provide copies of these documents to proceed with your vehicle shipping. You will also need this for you to receive your car later on. 

Tip 3: Prepare Your Vehicle Properly

Have your vehicle prepared for shipping ahead of time. Clean the interior and remove personal and valuable belongings as they may be lost or stolen during the transport. 

Also, drain the gas and disable the alarms of your vehicle. Check for leaks and ensure that the tire pressure is okay. 

It is also a good idea to remove custom accessories as some companies may consider them as modifications and may charge you more for the transport. 

The Last Resort

Shipping your vehicle will be quite expensive even if you choose a company that provides military discounts. So how will you shipping car from Hawaii or other stations? Well, you have two options:  

       1. Drive Your Car

You can opt to drive your vehicle by yourself to your next station. This will help save you cost for plane tickets and the service of a vehicle transport company. 

However, this is only feasible if you are transferring from a different station within the United States. The biggest downside to this is the long drive which can be quite tiring. This is certainly not the best option if you are relocating together with your entire family and you have young kids because they will surely be bored and tired along the way. 

       2. Sell It

Another option that you might want to consider is to sell your car. You wouldn’t have to pay any transportation fee. You can use the money that you earned from the sale to buy a new car in your new station. 

 

Final Word

PCSing can be quite challenging for many families. Having your vehicle transported by a reliable vehicle transport company will help ease your worries and make things more convenient for you.