For military families, permanent change of station season (PCS) is in full swing, and along with a laundry list of items to check off before the big move comes some new concerns.
Mainly, high gas prices and rising inflation costs.
The war with Iran has seen fuel prices skyrocket over the past few months, with Americans paying 30% more at the pump than they did in 2024. As of June 4, the national average was $4.24 per gallon, but prices have swung like a pendulum this spring.
Meanwhile, inflation continued to rise between March 2025 and March 2026, currently at 3.8%.
However, there are ways military families can make this life-changing relocation as painless as possible.
Chris Velazquez is the vice president of retail sales with Montway Auto Transport, a company that helps active-duty service members with privately owned vehicle (POV) shipping during PCS season, which runs from mid-May to early September.
Major Items to Consider
Velazquez told Military.com there are several key elements military families should consider preparing for the big move.
“They should consider the amount of time they can save by using POV shipping services,” he said. “With many PCS moves happening on a tight schedule, any time saved will result in an easier, less stressful move.”
Velazquez thinks high fuel prices and rising inflation are prompting more families to ship items, especially in cross-country moves, rather than spending a significant amount of time and money driving.
“Shipping your car allows you to save on gas money and keeps thousands of miles off your car,” Velazquez said. “You’ll also avoid the cost of food, lodging and potential repairs or maintenance that come with a long road trip.”
Some auto transporters, including Montway, offer military discounts and multi-vehicle shipping discounts, reducing stress on already tight finances.
Velazquez said the most important elements families should plan for during peak PCS season are timing and budgets.
“Think about how long you have to prepare for your move and how long it will take to get there. Then consider the expenses involved with moving and long-distance transportation,” he said. “For cross-country moves, it’s often more efficient and affordable to ship a car instead of driving it. This is especially true for military families that need to relocate on a short timeline.”
Service members may be entitled to have one of their vehicles moved, usually through movers from the Department of Defense, according to Velazquez, along with receiving a dislocation allowance to assist with moving expenses.
“Multi-vehicle shipments are easy, just make sure to add both vehicles to your order when booking or getting a quote,” Velazquez said. “After booking, a driver will arrive at your location with room for both vehicles and will transport them together to your destination.”
Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes families make during transport is waiting until the last minute to book their vehicle shipment.
“Try to book your auto transport as soon as you know your PCS destination,” Velazquez said. “This will help you avoid peak-season prices and secure a driver that can accommodate your schedule.”
Another misstep is leaving extra unsecured luggage in the vehicle. The interior of cars should be double-checked before shipping.
“Or keep all items contained in a single box under 100 pounds,” Velazquez said. “Extra weight can result in fees, and personal items in the car are not insured.”
He said moving companies often provide auto transport services along with home moving services.
“While it may seem more convenient, it often comes at a higher cost than booking the services separately,” Velazquez said.
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