For many military personnel, the prospect of a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move brings both excitement and logistical challenges. Among the most significant of these challenges is the question of vehicle transport. Understanding whether the military will ship your car, and what the process entails, can help ease the transition to a new duty station.
Understanding Military Relocation
Military relocation is a common aspect of military life. When ordered to move to a new duty station, service members may qualify for government-contracted transportation services, which can include vehicle transport. The extent of these services often depends on the specifics of the move, whether it’s domestic or involves overseas deployment.
PCS Move and Government Contract
During a PCS move, the military often provides relocation assistance, which may cover the shipping costs of one privately owned vehicle (POV). This is facilitated through a government contract with designated auto shipping companies. These companies are vetted for reliability and security, ensuring your vehicle is delivered safely to the new location.
Eligibility for Vehicle Transport
Eligibility for military benefits regarding vehicle transport during a PCS move depends on several factors:
- Rank and Position: Higher-ranking officers may have different allowances compared to enlisted personnel.
- Destination: Overseas deployments often include more comprehensive car logistics support.
- Number of Vehicles: Typically, the military covers the transport of one POV; additional vehicles may incur out-of-pocket expenses.
Car Transportation Process
The car transportation process under military relocation is streamlined to reduce stress for service members. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Step 1: Orders and Documentation
Before the auto shipping process begins, ensure you have all necessary orders and documentation. This includes PCS orders, vehicle registration, and insurance documents. These are crucial for setting up shipping through the military’s transportation office.
Step 2: Choosing a Shipping Method
Depending on your PCS move, you may have options regarding the shipping method:
- Open Transport: A cost-effective method where the vehicle is transported on an open trailer.
- Enclosed Transport: Offers additional protection from weather and road debris but at a higher cost.
Step 3: Preparing Your Vehicle
Proper preparation of your vehicle is essential for a smooth transition:
- Ensure the car is clean inside and out to facilitate inspection.
- Remove personal items and ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full.
- Check for any existing damage and document it with photos.
Step 4: Vehicle Delivery
The final step is the delivery of your vehicle to the new duty station. The military’s contracted service provider will handle this, coordinating the timing and location to ensure you have your vehicle when needed.
Understanding Shipping Costs
While the military often covers the shipping costs for one vehicle, any additional services or vehicles will require personal payment. Understanding these costs upfront can help you plan accordingly:
- Additional Vehicles: You may choose to ship more than one vehicle at your own expense.
- Upgraded Services: Opting for enclosed transport or expedited shipping will incur additional charges.
- Insurance Coverage: Ensure adequate insurance coverage for the transit period, which might be an extra cost.
Relocating to a new duty station can be a complex process, but understanding the options available for car transportation can significantly ease the transition. By leveraging military benefits and government contracts, military personnel can ensure their vehicle is safely and efficiently transported, allowing them to focus on settling into their new roles and environments.
For further assistance, military personnel are encouraged to contact their transportation office for detailed guidance tailored to their specific orders and needs.