For U. S. veterans looking to relocate, there are several moving companies that offer discounts to veterans to honor their service. These discounts can apply to various moving services, from full-service relocations to truck rentals and storage solutions.
In this article, I will discuss the different options veterans can choose, including local and long-distance moves. I will also provide information on what they need to do to get these benefits and how much they can save.
Moving Companies with Veteran Discounts
Veterans have several moving companies to choose from. These companies offer complete moving services and provide special discounts or benefits to those who have served in the military.
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines has been a prominent figure in the long-distance and interstate moving industry for over 80 years. The company offers a range of moving, packing, and shipment services to meet various needs. North American Van Lines gives a good deal to veterans who are members of Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or have a Vetrewards membership. They give them free Full Value Protection (FVP) up to $100,000.
This offer can provide significant peace of mind during the moving process. Additionally, some local branches may offer further discounts on packing, shipping, rates, and other services. Veterans are encouraged to contact their local North American Van Lines branch to inquire about specific benefits available in their area.
North American Van Lines offers other services, like custom packing for fragile items, setting up appliances and electronics, and putting furniture back together. These services can be of great assistance to veterans looking to carefully handle their belongings.
Oz Moving & Storage
Oz Moving & Storage is a moving company based in New York with branches in California, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Florida. They offer long-distance moving, packing, and storage services.
Oz Moving & Storage offers discounts for veterans, retired military members, and active service members. They offer 10% off all moving and storage services for local moves and 5% off for long-distance moves.
While the company has received mixed reviews, with some customers reporting issues with long-distance moves, many have had positive experiences with local relocations.
To further cater to veteran needs, Oz Moving & Storage offers eco-friendly packing materials, professional packing services, and temporary and long-term storage solutions. These additional services can make moves more efficient and environmentally conscious for veterans.
uShip
uShip offers a unique approach to moving and shipping through its consolidated shipping service. This platform allows users to post their moving needs and receive bids from verified trucking services or individual drivers.
For veterans and active service members, uShip offers some nice benefits. These include free shipping for the first shipment and up to 60% off the total cost when using carriers that help veterans.
This option can be particularly useful for those needing to ship large, bulky, or high-weight items. It’s important to keep in mind that service quality and rates may vary depending on the chosen driver.
uShip also provides real-time shipment tracking, insurance options for added protection, and customer reviews and ratings. These features can help veterans make informed decisions and ensure the safe delivery of their belongings.
Truck Rental Companies for Veterans
For veterans who prefer a more hands-on approach to moving, truck rental companies can offer a cost-effective solution. While options are limited, there is one standout choice for veteran discounts in this category.
Penske
Penske is one of the largest truck rental companies in the United States and stands out for its veteran-friendly policies and affordability.
The company gives 15% off all truck rentals for active military and veterans. It also has a special call center for military moves (1-844-TROOPS or 1-844-487-6677). If booking your move online, use the code MILITARY to receive a 15% discount off your truck rental.
Penske’s commitment to supporting veterans extends beyond discounts. In 2022, there was praise because the company hired military members. 9% of its new hires were military members or veterans from the United States.
Penske offers other benefits and services. These include well-maintained, fuel-efficient trucks, different truck sizes to fit different moves, and roadside assistance for added security. These features ensure that veterans have reliable and effective means for their self-moves.
Moving Container and Storage Companies
For veterans who need both moving and storage solutions, container and storage companies can offer flexible options. While these services may have a higher total cost than standard movers, they can provide more affordable long-term storage solutions.
PODS
PODS (Portable On-Demand Storage) is a moving and storage company that offers a straightforward discount for veterans: 10% off the final bill for any local move and item storage services.
This discount can be especially helpful for veterans who need to store some things between moves or those who move often and only need to carry important items. PODS also provides flexible scheduling for container delivery and pick-up, secure, weather-resistant containers, and handles city-specific permits for the customer.
These services can make moving and storage solutions more adaptable to veterans’ unique needs.
1-800-PACK-RAT
1-800-PACK-RAT is another moving and storage company that caters to veterans’ needs. They offer a 10% discount for active and retired military service members.
With 1-800-PACK-RAT, veterans can have their possessions stored and shipped to their new home without the need to drive a moving truck. While customers are responsible for their packing and unpacking, the company handles the transportation and storage aspects of the move.
1-800-PACK-RAT has other features like climate-controlled storage, good wooden boxes to keep things safe, and easy access to stored items during the storage period. These services provide further convenience and security for veterans’ belongings.
How to Choose the Right Moving Option
When selecting a moving company or service as a veteran, consider the following factors:
- Type of move: Determine whether you’re planning a local or long-distance relocation.
- Services needed: Assess whether you require full-service moving, self-service options, or a combination of moving and storage.
- Budget: Compare the costs of different services after applying veteran discounts.
- Reviews and reputation: Research customer experiences, particularly those of fellow veterans.
- Eligibility requirements: Ensure you meet the qualifications for the veteran discounts offered.
Additionally, it’s helpful to consider other specific requirements such as:
- Specialized handling: If you have fragile or valuable items that need extra care.
- Time constraints: Some moves may require quicker turnaround times.
- Accessibility needs: Ensure that the moving company can accommodate any specific accessibility requirements you may have.
By evaluating these factors, you can select a moving option that fits your unique situation.
Tips for a Smooth Military Move
To make the most of veteran moving discounts and ensure a successful relocation, consider these tips:
- Plan: Start researching and contacting moving companies well in advance of your move date.
- Gather necessary documentation: Have your military ID or discharge papers ready to prove eligibility for discounts.
- Get multiple quotes: Compare offers from different companies to find the best deal.
- Ask about additional benefits: Some companies may offer extra perks or services for veterans beyond the advertised discounts.
- Consider timing: If possible, schedule your move during off-peak seasons to secure better rates.
Furthermore, consider these additional tips for a more efficient move:
- Create a moving checklist: List tasks and deadlines to stay organized.
- Declutter: Sort through belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need.
- Label boxes clearly: Reveal contents and designated rooms to simplify unpacking.
- Protect valuables: Use appropriate packing materials to safeguard items during transit.
By following these practices, you can streamline the moving process and minimize stress.
Understanding Military Moving Policies
For active-duty service members, it’s important to understand the military’s policies regarding Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. The military typically covers the cost of one PCS move per year.
Service members can choose between a government-arranged move or a Personally Procured Move (PPM). For PPMs, service members can pocket any savings if they spend less than the government’s allotted amount. Veterans who are no longer on active duty won’t have access to these benefits but can still take advantage of the veteran discounts offered by various moving companies.
For anyone who is transitioning from active duty to veteran status, there are several important factors to consider. Initial moves may still be government-funded, depending on the timing and circumstances of your transition. It’s crucial to understand your moving entitlements and how they apply to your moving process.
Using military counseling services can guide making the most of available benefits. Grasping these details can help in planning and executing a move smoothly and cost-effectively.
Final Thoughts About Moving Companies That Offer Discounts to Veterans
Moving can be a stressful and expensive process, but for veterans, there are several options available to help ease the financial burden. From full-service moving companies to truck rentals and storage solutions, many businesses recognize the sacrifices made by service members and offer discounts as a token of appreciation.
When planning a move, veterans should take the time to research and compare the various options available to them. By using these discounts and choosing the right moving service for their needs, veterans can save money and ensure a smoother transition to their new home.
Remember, it’s not just about finding the cheapest option, but rather the one that offers the best value and meets specific moving requirements.
