How To Ship Your Vehicle When You’re a USAA Member

Q: How much does it cost to ship a car when you’re a USAA member?

Typical interstate shipping costs range from $500 to $1,200 , depending on distance, vehicle size, season, and carrier type. Open transport is the most affordable option, while enclosed shipping can cost 30–60% more for added protection. USAA membership does not set pricing, but it helps members plan accurately using current market benchmarks like published car shipping rates .

by Joe Webster

Last updated Dec, 27 2025

How To Ship Your Vehicle When You’re a USAA Member

The United Services Automobile Association (USAA) is currently the leading provider of insurance and other financial services to members of the US military, veterans, and their families. They offer a wide array of different types of insurance, including auto insurance designed to protect you and your vehicle.

But what happens when you need to transport your vehicle from point A to point B? Does the USAA offer car shipping insurance as well? A-1 Auto Transport is here to help you find the answer!

The Difference Between Auto Insurance and Car Shipping Insurance

The two are actually different policies designed for different purposes. Not only that but from a legal standpoint, there are different parties required to carry such insurance.

First, auto insurance is necessary for vehicle owners in order to be allowed to drive the car on the US road. It protects the driver in various ways:

Covers medical expenses in case of an accident
Covers car repairs
Protects against liability during an accident
Even protects drivers in case of hit and runs, or collisions with uninsured motorists, etc.

You do not need auto insurance in order to move your vehicle. This is the responsibility of the transporting company, which by federal law is required to carry a certain level of insurance to legally ship any vehicles.

As a result, if you have just purchased a vehicle and need to have it relocated, you do not need to first get it insured with the USAA. Shipping insurance is the responsibility of the carrier and not the vehicle owner.

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How Does Shipping Insurance Work?

When relocating a vehicle to a CONUS destination, you are responsible to take care of the logistics. This is different from an OCONUS delivery, where the military can approve and pay for the shipment of a vehicle.

But in case of, for instance, a PCS move, you will need to look for an auto transport company that can accommodate you. The USAA currently doesn’t directly collaborate with any auto hauling companies, but members will often receive certain discounts from many carriers.

Once you find a company, be sure to ask about their insurance options. Federal laws do mandate certain levels of coverage, but it’s best to make sure such minimums can cover the full value of your vehicle, to prevent an unnecessary risk.

Here are some more questions to ask your carrier when it comes to auto shipping insurance:

What type of damage is covered?
Is there a deductible?
What are the limitations of the coverage?
Can you purchase additional coverage if necessary?

Shipping insurance can be confusing, but most companies will be happy to explain your options and help you make the right choice.

How A-1 Auto Transport Can Help?

If you’re looking to transport your vehicle for a PCS move or any other reason, A1-AT has successfully worked with many members of the military and helped them get this task done swiftly.

As an experienced auto carrier, we are here to make sure you access the very best solutions for all your needs and always provide our clients with:

Top-notch services
Competitive rates
Personalized support and guidance
Industry-leading expertise
Great insurance options

So if you’re a USAA member or in need of help with your PCS move, A-1 Auto Transport is the team to call!

Get your free, no strings attached estimate online, then call our team at 1-800-452-2880 to find out more about our services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ship a car to another state as a USAA member?

Choose an FMCSA-licensed carrier, confirm pickup and delivery locations, and prepare the vehicle by removing personal items and documenting condition. Most interstate shipments take 2–7 days depending on distance and route demand. Open transport is the most common choice for everyday vehicles, while enclosed carriers are used for higher-value cars. This process is standard when shipping a car to another state.

Does USAA offer car shipping services for members?

USAA does not directly ship vehicles. Instead, it offers relocation guidance, insurance support, and educational resources to help members arrange transport with licensed carriers. USAA members choose their own auto transport company, allowing flexibility in pricing, timing, and service type. This is common for interstate moves, PCS relocations, and long-distance transfers where carrier availability and route efficiency matter most.

How much does it cost to ship a car when you’re a USAA member?

Typical interstate shipping costs range from $500 to $1,200, depending on distance, vehicle size, season, and carrier type. Open transport is the most affordable option, while enclosed shipping can cost 30–60% more for added protection. USAA membership does not set pricing, but it helps members plan accurately using current market benchmarks like published car shipping rates.

Does USAA insurance cover my vehicle during auto transport?

USAA auto insurance may offer limited coverage during transit, but the carrier’s cargo insurance is the primary protection while the vehicle is on the truck. Federal regulations require carriers to carry active cargo policies covering damage from pickup to delivery. USAA members should confirm coverage limits and deductibles in advance to avoid gaps if a claim is needed.

Is door-to-door auto transport recommended for USAA members?

Door-to-door transport is the most convenient option and is widely used by USAA members during relocations. The carrier picks up and delivers the vehicle as close to the address as legally and safely possible, reducing handling and terminal delays. This service is ideal for families, military moves, and tight schedules using professional door-to-door auto transport.

What documents do I need to ship my vehicle with a USAA policy?

You typically need a valid photo ID, current vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. USAA members should keep a copy of their policy declaration page for reference. The carrier provides a bill of lading at pickup and delivery, documenting vehicle condition. A title is not required for domestic shipping unless ownership is changing.