PCS with Two Cars

Q: What happens if I have PCS orders and two cars?

If you have PCS with Two Cars , your options depend on whether the move is domestic or overseas. For most OCONUS assignments, the military typically authorizes shipment of one privately owned vehicle (POV) , while the second vehicle becomes the service member's responsibility. Military families often choose to drive, store, sell, or privately ship the extra vehicle. Reviewing your orders early helps determine the most cost-effective solution and prevents delays during the PCS process. military auto transport

Q: Can the military ship two vehicles during a PCS move?

Usually, the military does not automatically pay to ship two vehicles for one household during a PCS. Standard entitlements generally cover one POV , especially for overseas assignments. However, exceptions may apply depending on the duty station, family circumstances, and current transportation policies. Service members assigned to remote locations or unique overseas commands should verify eligibility with their Transportation Office before making arrangements for a second vehicle.

by Joe Webster

Last updated Jul, 14 2026

Moving is already challenging (even for civilians), but when you are associated with the armed forces, you don’t have time to sit back and relax.

You have to move IMMEDIATELY!

There’d be a lot to deal with during your move. For example, there are rules and regulations and paperwork to do. That’s already too much of a headache. Meanwhile, shipping two of your cars can add to your PCSing troubles. Thus, we have decided to take at least one of your burdens off by covering your options to reassignment with 2 motors.

In this guide, we’ll cover your options for PCSing with your 2 rides and how to prepare your vehicles for the military move.

Let’s get started!

Your Available DIY Options For Military Moving [2 Cars At Once]

Privately shipping a second PCS vehicle costs $700–$1,500 domestically; Alaska, Hawaii, and overseas assignments can exceed $2,000–$4,000 per vehicle.
Peak PCS season runs May through August, driving carrier demand higher — booking 30–60 days in advance secures better availability and competitive rates.
Military entitlements typically cover one POV per household; the second vehicle requires a Power of Attorney and FMCSA-licensed carrier for private shipment.

PCSing with two cars at once is a REAL challenge. Sure thing!

But that doesn’t mean you don’t have options to move both vehicles simultaneously. You have several options to carry with them.

The military doesn’t cover the cost of shipping your rides, regardless of your option. However, you can claim taxes as a moving expense and mileage reimbursement later in some cases.

Drive Separately

Have two rides and 2 adults in the family? That’s the perfect combination to move your duo towards the next destination. Driving 2 motors separately with a co-diver is the ideal and, by far, the cheapest way to relocate your 2 four-wheelers at once.

It’s a time-consuming option, though.

Seek Help

When you have 2 motors but don’t have another driving partner in the family, seeking help from a friend or neighbor can be the way to transport both your motors at once.

You might have to contribute a little money to compensate for your helping hands.

Whether you drive with one of your family members or ask for someone’s help to drive your ride to the next duty station, you’ll have to coordinate with your counterpart to stop at the gas station or restroom or for a night stay at lodgings.

Consider Towing

So, you have no other adult at home to drive your second car with you, and unfortunately, you couldn’t find any help either. In this situation, towing your car can be a wise option. Rent a trailer, tow your one vehicle with other belongings, and drive the other.

Make Multiple Trips

Okay, you might think making multiple trips to transport your motor to the next destination isn’t a practical option (We second that!). But it will work in some conditions.

For example, moving with your family and getting your second motor moved simultaneously can increase your stress level. So, you can move one of your four-wheelers to the next destination beforehand. Then, come back, relax, and drive the second one with the family. That’s it!

This multiple-trip idea works best when the distance between the two destinations is minimal.

What To Expect From The Shifting Process Of Your 2 Four-Wheelers During The Reassignment?

Believe it or not, shipping 2 motors during the PCS is one of the hottest topics often discussed in the reassignment-ing forums and Facebook groups. And, if you are about to move with your motors, we hope you can feel how stressful it can be to carry more than one vehicle simultaneously.

Let’s get back to the point.

When you have considered all the DIY options but still couldn’t find a perfect fit for your move, the best way to move your motors is to ship them with the help of a professional shipping service.

Yes, you won’t be getting any funds to cover your shipping expenses, but the shipping expenses will save you from stress.

Here’s how the whole shipping process of navigating your rides goes by.

a soldier stands proudly with his family

Step 1: Finding a Suitable Shipping Service

You must find a suitable shipping service provider to relocate your vehicles first.

Selecting a car shipping company that frequently makes such trips with military persons is essential as they are familiar with the rules and regulations of your shipment and can lead the overall procedure professionally.

One of the best ways is to join some military spouse Facebook groups or forums and ask for recommendations. You’ll get to know some of the best shipping service providers there.

Once you gather some viable options, learn more about all those shipping service providers online. Read about their terms and conditions.

Step 2: Understand the Cost and Timeframe of Your Shipping

The distance between two locations is more likely to determine shipping rates. Moreover, shipping timelines and costs can vary based on the services of different companies and times of the year.

Usually, the reassignment season is SUPER BUSY, and your preferred dates and delivery timeframe might not be available. Therefore, make your PCS plan a tad bit flexible regarding cost and delivery timeline.

Step 3: Coordinate with Your Shipping Company to Perform the Relocation

Your shipping service provider will inform you about the pick-up date and delivery timeframe upfront so that you can prepare yourself accordingly. Staying in contact with your delivery driver for updates is the key to smoothing the transition.

Pick-up:

Some shipping service providers might come to pick up your vehicles by themselves on the pick-up date, while some might require you to reach a nearby base or any landmark location.

Drop-Off:

The same will happen on the drop-off date. For example, your delivery driver might deliver your rides to your preferred address, or they might ask you to come and receive your cars at a central location.

a soldier dressed in camouflage stands tall

Can I Pack My Four-Wheeler With Stuff While Delivery Them To The Next Duty Base?

Yes, you can (but you shouldn’t).

Technically, packing your ride with additional items is allowed while shipping, but it’s not an ideal option to move your other belongings along with the cars being shipped.

Here’s why...

First, your ride will be exposed to extreme weather conditions, fluctuating temperatures, dirt, debris, and whatnot during the move. Hence, moving anything that might react to the deviating temperatures is not an intelligent choice.

Secondly, the additional items packed in the four-wheeler can add to the weight of your ride.

Lastly, the delivery drivers will stop at multiple points to refuel their trailers or relax. These breaks make your belongings susceptible to theft.

Therefore, transporting your rides empty is the best bet.

Do I Require A Power Of Attorney While Helping Navigate A Military Person’s Auto(s) During A Relocation?

Having a Power of Attorney (POA) is the best practice when helping someone move their ride (either dropping it for shipping or receiving the shipment) during their PCS. Having a Power of Attorney (POA) is the best practice.

Having a Power of Attorney alone proves that you have the authorization to execute the contract. In addition, you can tell your shipping company about the situation in which you are dropping or receiving the shipment on someone else’s behalf, which can also save you from any potential difficulty.

Preparing Your Four-Wheelers For Cargo

When navigating towards your next permanent charge station, you must prepare your rides for the move.

Documentation:

Keep all your documents ready. These are the necessary documents that you need to keep handy:

Proof of Entitlement
Proof of Identity
Proof of Ownership of Your Vehicle(s)
The Contract between You and Your Shipping Company

Washing And Cleaning:

Wash the exterior of your ride and remove all personal belongings from the four-wheeler. Also, consider eliminating your four-wheeler's accessories, such as loose audio or video navigation equipment.

Once you have removed all the extras from your ride, vacuum-clean the interior of your ride.

If you are looking forward to cleaning/shampooing your car’s interior, it would be best to do it all at least 14 days before the move so that your ride is completely dry and free of moisture on a moving day.

Things You Can Leave Inside Your Auto:

Although we recommend completely evacuating your ride for transportation, there are still some items that you can leave inside your vehicle. For example:

Hand Tools (Must not exceed $200 in value)
Jacks
Tire Irons
Fire Extinguisher
Jumper Cable
A Spare Tire
Baby Car Seats

Some Must-Dos Before You Let Your Four-Wheelers(s) Go With The Dispatcher.

Take a look at some things that you “Must” while shipping your vehicle(s):

Keep the fuel level up to 1/4th of the tank or less.
Provide a complete set of keys. The collection includes Ignition Keys, Door Keys, Trunk Keys, Gas Cap Keys, Wheel Lock, etc.
Your ride(s) should be in safe, operable conditions.
Make sure your four-wheelers(s) have NO leaks.
Double-check that the windshields of your ride(s) are not cracked.

Conclusion:

With that, we have come to the end of the whole PCSing procedure with two motors.

Moving is complicated, and it becomes even more complex with two motors.

But remember, hearing the experiences of those who have permanently changed stations will help you decide the best option to move with your 2 rides.

Happy PCSing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I have PCS orders and two cars?

If you have PCS with Two Cars, your options depend on whether the move is domestic or overseas. For most OCONUS assignments, the military typically authorizes shipment of one privately owned vehicle (POV), while the second vehicle becomes the service member's responsibility. Military families often choose to drive, store, sell, or privately ship the extra vehicle. Reviewing your orders early helps determine the most cost-effective solution and prevents delays during the PCS process. military auto transport

Can the military ship two vehicles during a PCS move?

Usually, the military does not automatically pay to ship two vehicles for one household during a PCS. Standard entitlements generally cover one POV, especially for overseas assignments. However, exceptions may apply depending on the duty station, family circumstances, and current transportation policies. Service members assigned to remote locations or unique overseas commands should verify eligibility with their Transportation Office before making arrangements for a second vehicle.

How much does it cost to ship a second car during a PCS?

Shipping a second vehicle privately typically costs between $700 and $1,500+ for most domestic routes, while Alaska, Hawaii, and overseas shipments can exceed $2,000 to $4,000. The final rate depends on distance, vehicle size, season, fuel costs, and carrier availability. Peak PCS season from May through August often increases pricing because demand rises significantly. Current car shipping rates can help estimate transportation costs more accurately.

What is the best way to move two cars during a military PCS?

The best strategy depends on your budget and destination. Many military families drive one vehicle and ship the second, while others arrange transportation for both vehicles to reduce mileage and travel fatigue. For long-distance relocations, shipping can save hundreds of miles of wear and tear while simplifying travel logistics. Using a shipping multiple vehicles service may also provide scheduling efficiencies and potential multi-car discounts.

Will I be reimbursed for driving two cars during a PCS?

Reimbursement for multiple vehicles depends on your PCS orders and current Joint Travel Regulations. In some situations, the government may authorize mileage reimbursement for more than one vehicle when dependents travel separately or operational requirements justify additional transportation. Eligible expenses can include mileage, tolls, and approved travel allowances. Always obtain authorization before travel because reimbursement rules vary by assignment and destination.

How early should I arrange transportation for a second PCS vehicle?

Arrange transportation as soon as PCS orders are issued. Booking 30 to 60 days in advance generally provides access to better carrier availability, more pickup dates, and competitive pricing. Early planning becomes especially important during the peak military moving season and for destinations such as Alaska, Hawaii, and overseas locations where processing requirements and vessel schedules can extend transit times. Flexible scheduling often improves both cost and delivery options.