The Army’s Guidelines for Shipping a Car

When you’re in the military, moving to a new assignment is a way of life. And when it’s time to move, you may need to ship your car. But navigating the regulations for military auto shipping can be overwhelming, and finding a reliable auto transport company can be challenging. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the process and select a reputable company that specializes in military auto shipping.

Military auto-shipping can seem like a daunting task for many military members and their families. However, with proper planning and preparation, arranging for the shipment of a car can be fairly easy.

The first step in ensuring a successful auto shipment is to obtain your orders. Orders are necessary to confirm that you are authorized to transport your vehicle and to provide important details, such as your destination and your entitlements. Without orders, you will not be able to move forward with the process.

Once you have your orders, it is important to determine if you are eligible for Personal Owned Vehicle (POV) entitlements. If you are eligible, you can save a significant amount of money on the cost of shipping your car. Be sure to check with your transportation office to determine your entitlements.

Selecting a reputable auto transport company that specializes in military auto shipping is also crucial. Research the company thoroughly and read reviews from other military members who have used their services. Make sure that the company is licensed, insured, and has experience working with military members.

Preparing your car for shipment is another important step. Be sure to clean your car thoroughly and remove all personal belongings. Take photos of any pre-existing damage and provide these to the auto transport company. Also, ensure that your car has no more than a quarter tank of gas and that the battery is charged.

Lastly, make sure that you stay in communication with the auto transport company throughout the process. Confirm the pickup and delivery dates and ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork in order.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in shipping a car while in the military, so you can ensure a smooth and successful transport of your vehicle.

Military Car Shipping: How Does it Work?

Military Car Shipping: How Does it Work?

Military car shipping is a unique process that differs from regular car shipping in several ways. Military personnel needs to understand these differences to ensure a smooth and successful car shipment. Here are some key points to keep in mind when it comes to military car shipping:

1. Military car shipping is subject to specific regulations and guidelines.

2. Military car shipping companies must be registered with the Department of Transportation and have a valid Motor Carrier Number.

3. Military car shipping companies must adhere to specific insurance requirements to protect your vehicle during transport.

4. Military car shipping companies must have experience working with military personnel and understand the unique needs and requirements of this customer base.

5. Military car shipping companies must have the necessary equipment and resources to handle military car shipments, such as specialized trailers and secure storage facilities.

6. Military car shipping companies must be able to work with military bases and follow their specific rules and regulations regarding vehicle shipments.

7. Military car shipping companies must have the ability to track and monitor shipments to ensure timely and safe delivery.

8. Military car shipping may be eligible for government reimbursement, so it’s important to keep accurate records and receipts.

9. Military car shipping may be subject to certain restrictions, such as limitations on the types of vehicles that can be shipped or the number of times a vehicle can be shipped in a given time period.

10. It’s important to thoroughly research and compare military car shipping companies to ensure you choose a reputable and reliable provider.

Not Every Company Offers Military Vehicle Shipping Services

When it comes to military auto shipping, not all auto transport companies are created equal. Many companies do not offer military vehicle shipping services at all. Here are some reasons why this may be the case and why it’s important to select a company that specializes in military auto shipping:

1. Lack of Understanding: Some companies may not have a clear understanding of the unique requirements and regulations involved in military auto shipping, making it difficult for them to provide reliable and efficient service.

2. Limited Resources: Military auto shipping requires specific resources, such as specialized trailers and equipment, that not all auto transport companies may have access to or be willing to invest in.

3. Increased Liability: Military auto shipping involves a higher level of liability and risk than regular auto shipping due to the nature of the military assignments and the potential for damage or loss. Some companies may not be willing to take on this added risk.

4. Specific Requirements: Military auto shipping has specific requirements, such as providing proof of eligibility and adhering to strict timelines, that not all companies may be able to meet.

It’s crucial to select a company that specializes in military auto shipping to ensure that your vehicle is transported safely and efficiently. These companies have the expertise, resources, and experience needed to navigate the unique requirements and regulations involved in military auto shipping, giving you peace of mind during a potentially stressful time.

Not Every Company Offers Military Vehicle Shipping Services

Who is Eligible?

Military auto shipping is a service provided to military members and their families who require transportation for their vehicles during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move. However, not everyone is eligible for this service. It is important to understand the eligibility criteria to determine if you are qualified to utilize military auto-shipping services.

Generally, active duty military members and their families are eligible for military auto shipping. This includes those who are on active duty, reservists, National Guard members, and military retirees. Military family members and Department of Defense civilians may also be eligible for the service in certain circumstances.

In addition to being a military member or family member, other factors may determine eligibility for military auto shipping. For example, eligibility may depend on the type of move, the location of the move, and the availability of funding for the service.

It is important to note that each branch of the military has its policies and guidelines regarding who is eligible for the service. Therefore, it is essential to consult with your military transportation office or personal property office to determine your eligibility.

Understanding the eligibility criteria for military auto shipping is crucial for those who need to transport their vehicles during a PCS move. By knowing who is eligible, military members and their families can take advantage of this helpful service and ensure a smoother transition to their new duty station.

What Do the Acronyms Mean?

When it comes to shipping a car while in the military, there are a lot of acronyms that you should know. These acronyms may seem confusing at first, but they are important to understand to ensure that your vehicle is transported smoothly and efficiently. Here is a brief overview of some of the most common military auto-shipping acronyms and why they are important to know:

• PCS – Permanent Change of Station: This refers to when a military member is being permanently transferred to a new duty station. Knowing this acronym is important as it relates directly to military auto shipping.

• CONUS: This acronym stands for the Continental United States, which refers to the 48 contiguous states within the United States.

• OCONUS: This stands for Outside Continental United States, which refers to any location outside of the 48 contiguous states. This can include territories like Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, as well as foreign countries where US military personnel are stationed.

• PDS: This stands for Permanent Duty Station, which is the location where a military member is assigned for a significant amount of time, usually at least 6 months or more.

• POV – Personally Owned Vehicle: This is the vehicle that you own and want to ship. Understanding this acronym is crucial when arranging for military auto shipping.

• TMO – Transportation Management Office: This is the office that manages all transportation for military personnel and their families. It is important to know this acronym as you will likely be working with TMO when shipping your vehicle.

• JTR – Joint Travel Regulation: This is the regulation that outlines the rules and regulations for transporting personal property, including vehicles, for military personnel. Knowing this acronym is important as it relates to military auto-shipping regulations.

• DOD – Department of Defence: This is the federal department responsible for overseeing the United States military. Understanding this acronym is important as it relates to military auto-shipping regulations and compliance.

Understanding these acronyms and others related to military auto-shipping is crucial to ensure that you can navigate the process successfully. By familiarizing yourself with these acronyms, you can communicate effectively with the necessary parties and ensure that your vehicle is shipped safely and efficiently.

Steps to Shipping a Car When You Are in the Military

Steps to Shipping a Car When You Are in the Military

Shipping a car while in the military can be a complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these steps, you can make the process smoother and less stressful.

1. Get Your Orders: Before you can ship your car, you need to have orders from the military. Orders are necessary because they provide the details of your assignment, including your destination, the length of your stay, and your authorized transportation mode. You can obtain your orders from your commanding officer or your branch’s transportation office.

2. See if You Can Get POV Entitlements: POV entitlements, or Personally Owned Vehicle entitlements, are benefits provided by the military that allow you to ship your car at a reduced or no cost. To determine if you are eligible for POV entitlements, you must check with your transportation office. You may be eligible for these benefits if you are moving to a new duty station, deploying, or being reassigned.

3. Select a Car Shipping Company That Works With Military Members: Once you have your orders and have determined your POV entitlements, it’s time to select a car shipping company that specializes in military auto shipping. This step is critical because not all auto transport companies offer military vehicle shipping services. You should look for a company that has experience working with military members, offers competitive pricing, and has positive customer reviews. It’s also a good idea to ask for referrals from other military members who have shipped their cars before.

4. Choose Your Shipping Method: Once you have selected a car shipping company, you will need to decide on the shipping method. You can choose between open or enclosed transport, depending on your budget and the level of protection you want for your vehicle. Open transport is less expensive but exposes your vehicle to the elements, while enclosed transport provides more protection but is more expensive.

5. Prepare Your Car for Shipping: Before your car is shipped, you will need to prepare it for transport. This includes removing all personal belongings, cleaning the interior and exterior, and disabling the alarm system. You should also take photos of your vehicle before it is shipped to document its condition.

6. Drop Off Your Car: Once your car is prepared for shipping, you will need to drop it off at the designated location. The auto transport company will inspect your vehicle and create a report of any existing damages before loading it onto the carrier.

7. Track Your Shipment: During transit, you can track your car’s progress and estimated delivery date through the auto transport company’s website or by contacting their customer service team. You should also be prepared to be flexible with your delivery schedule as unexpected delays can occur.

8. Receive Your Car: When your car arrives at its destination, you will need to inspect it for damages before accepting delivery. If there are any damages, you should note them on the delivery report and contact the auto transport company’s customer service team. With your car in hand, you can begin your new assignment with peace of mind knowing that your vehicle arrived safely and securely.

Some Tips and Tricks for Transporting Your Car to Your Military Assignment

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when transporting your car to your military assignment.

1. Research and Choose a Reputable Auto Transport Company

It is essential to select a reputable auto transport company that specializes in military auto shipping. Look for companies that have experience working with military members and are familiar with the specific regulations and requirements for shipping cars to military bases. Read reviews and check the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau to ensure that you are selecting a reliable and trustworthy company.

2. Plan and Schedule Your Car Shipment in Advance

Give yourself plenty of time to plan and schedule your car shipment. Start researching and contacting auto transport companies at least four to six weeks before your move to ensure that you have enough time to select a company, obtain quotes, and make arrangements. Keep in mind that peak moving season for military members is from May to September, so plan accordingly.

3. Prepare Your Car for Shipment

Prepare your car for shipment by ensuring that it is clean, free of personal belongings, and in good working condition. Remove any personal items from your car, including GPS devices, toll tags, and parking permits. Make sure that your car has a quarter tank of gas or less, and check for any leaks or mechanical issues that may affect the transport process.

4. Obtain the Necessary Paperwork

Make sure that you have all the necessary paperwork for your car shipment, including your orders, POV entitlements, and a bill of lading. If you are shipping your car overseas, you will need to obtain a power of attorney to authorize the shipment of your vehicle.

5. Be Available for Pick-Up and Delivery

Be available for pick-up and delivery of your vehicle. Coordinate with the auto transport company to arrange a convenient time and location for pick-up and delivery. Make sure that someone is available to receive the car at both the pick-up and delivery locations.

6. Stay in Communication with the Auto Transport Company

Stay in communication with the auto transport company throughout the shipping process. Ask for updates on the status of your shipment and any changes to the delivery schedule. Make sure that you have the company’s contact information in case you need to reach them during the transport process.

POV Military Car Shipping

POV military car shipping, or Personally Owned Vehicle military car shipping, is a service that allows military members to transport their vehicles to their new duty stations. While the military provides transportation for its members, there are times when having access to a personal vehicle is necessary, especially for those stationed overseas.

Determining whether POV shipping is the best option for you depends on a few factors. Firstly, consider the length of your assignment. If you will be stationed overseas for an extended period, having access to a personal vehicle may be more practical than relying solely on public transportation or rental cars.

Secondly, consider the location and accessibility of your duty station. If your station is located in a remote area with limited transportation options, having your vehicle may be necessary.

Before opting for POV military car shipping, it’s important to ensure that your vehicle meets certain requirements. For example, your vehicle must be able to pass an inspection to ensure it meets environmental and safety standards. Additionally, you must have current registration and insurance for your vehicle. It’s also important to note that the military limits the weight and size of vehicles that can be shipped, so it’s important to ensure that your vehicle meets these requirements as well.

Once you’ve determined that POV shipping is the best option for you, it’s important to find a reputable auto transport company that specializes in military POV shipping. Be sure to research companies thoroughly and read reviews from previous customers to ensure that you’re selecting a reliable and trustworthy company.

Overall, POV military car shipping can be a convenient and practical option for military members who need to transport their vehicles to their duty stations. By carefully considering your options and working with a reputable auto transport company, you can ensure a smooth and successful shipment of your vehicle.

PCS Military Car Shipping Services 

PCS Military Car Shipping Services 

Have you just received your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) order and need to ship your car to your new duty station? Moving to a new location can be stressful, especially if you have to deal with the logistics of shipping your vehicle. However, with proper planning and preparation, the process can be much easier.

PCS orders are issued by the military when a service member is assigned to a new duty station. These orders may require the service member to move their family and personal belongings, including their vehicle, to a new location. Military auto shipping is the process of transporting a service member’s vehicle from one location to another.

Proper planning and preparation are crucial when shipping your car to your new duty station. It is essential to research and choose a reputable auto transport company that specializes in military auto shipping. These companies have experience working with the military and understand the unique challenges that come with transporting vehicles for service members.

When selecting a car shipping company, it’s important to consider factors such as cost, reputation, and delivery times. You should also verify that the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and has the proper insurance and licensing.

Another important factor to consider is whether you are eligible for POV (Privately Owned Vehicle) entitlements. POV entitlements are benefits provided to service members that help offset the costs associated with shipping their vehicles. To determine your eligibility, you should consult your unit transportation office or Personal Property Office.

Once you have selected a reputable auto transport company and determined your eligibility for POV entitlements, it’s important to prepare your vehicle for transport. This includes thoroughly cleaning your vehicle, removing any personal items, and ensuring that your car is in good working condition.

Finally, it’s essential to keep in communication with your auto transport company throughout the process. Be sure to provide them with all necessary information, such as your pickup and delivery addresses, and keep track of your car’s progress during transport.

Receiving a PCS order and needing to ship your car can be a stressful experience, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be much easier. By selecting a reputable auto transport company, determining your eligibility for POV entitlements, preparing your vehicle for transport, and staying in communication throughout the process, you can ensure a smooth and successful car shipment.

Base to Base PCS Auto Transport

Base to Base PCS Auto Transport

Base-to-base PCS auto transport can be a convenient and stress-free option for military members who need to move their cars. With this service, you can arrange for your car to be picked up from your current base and delivered directly to your new base, without the need for any additional driving or shipping arrangements.

To determine if base-to-base PCS auto transport is the best option for you, consider factors such as the distance between your current base and your new base, the cost of the shipping service, and any timing constraints you may have. If you’re moving a long distance, or if you have a tight schedule and need to ensure that your car arrives at your new base on a specific date, then base-to-base PCS auto transport may be the best choice.

When selecting a base-to-base PCS auto transport provider, be sure to do your research and choose a company that specializes in military auto shipping. Look for a company with experience in transporting vehicles for military members, as well as good reviews and a strong reputation in the industry.

In addition to selecting a reputable auto transport company, there are other steps you can take to ensure a smooth and successful base-to-base PCS auto transport. Make sure to thoroughly clean your car before shipping it, remove any personal belongings, and take pictures of the vehicle to document its condition before shipping. You should also make sure to have all necessary paperwork and documentation in order, including insurance, registration, and any required shipping forms or permits.

With proper planning and preparation, base-to-base PCS auto transport can be a great option for military members who need to move their cars. By choosing a reliable auto transport company and taking the necessary steps to prepare your vehicle for shipping, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free transition to your new base.

Vehicle Restrictions

Vehicle Restrictions

There are some restrictions on the types of vehicles that are eligible for shipment. It is important to understand these restrictions before making any decisions about shipping your vehicle. Here is an overview of vehicle restrictions for military auto shipping:

1. Size and Weight Restrictions: The military has specific size and weight restrictions for vehicles that can be shipped. These restrictions vary depending on the mode of transportation used. For example, vehicles shipped by air have more restrictive size and weight limits than vehicles shipped by sea.

2. Operational Restrictions: Vehicles that are not in operational condition may not be eligible for shipping. This is because they may be difficult to load and unload, which can cause delays and potential damage to the vehicle.

3. Age Restrictions: Some auto transport companies may have age restrictions for vehicles they are willing to ship. Vehicles that are too old may not be eligible for shipping.

4. Safety Restrictions: Vehicles with safety issues, such as defective brakes or other mechanical problems, may not be eligible for shipping. It is important to ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition before attempting to ship it.

To determine if your vehicle is eligible for military auto shipping, it is best to consult with a reputable auto transport company that specializes in military auto shipping. They will be able to provide you with the specific requirements and restrictions for your vehicle and help you make an informed decision about shipping it. It is important to note that restrictions and eligibility criteria can vary depending on the mode of transportation used and the destination, so it is important to do your research and seek guidance from experts in the field.

Shipping Timetable

Here is a numbered list explaining the shipping timetable for military auto-shipping and the importance of understanding the timeline:

1. Understanding the timeline is crucial when shipping your vehicle as it ensures timely delivery and avoids any inconvenience or delay.

2. The shipping timetable for military auto shipping can vary depending on several factors, such as the destination, season, and the type of service selected.

3. Generally, the shipping process begins a few weeks before the actual move, with the submission of the shipping application and the necessary paperwork.

4. After the application is processed, the actual pick-up and delivery dates are scheduled based on the availability of the transport carrier and the delivery time required.

5. The typical transit time for military auto shipping within the continental United States (CONUS) ranges from 10-14 days, while it can take up to 30 days for shipments outside the continental United States (OCONUS).

6. It is essential to keep in mind that unforeseen events such as traffic, weather, or mechanical issues can cause delays in transit times, so it’s important to plan for such contingencies.

7. During the shipping process, regular communication with the transport carrier and the designated point of contact (POC) can ensure a smoother and more efficient process, reducing the chances of any issues or delays.

8. In summary, understanding the shipping timetable and planning accordingly is crucial when shipping your vehicle as it ensures timely delivery and avoids any inconvenience or delay.

Ready to Ship Your Car? Contact Ship A Car, Inc., Today!

Conclusion

As a member of the military, shipping your car can be a tricky process. However, by following the proper regulations and selecting a reputable auto transport company, you can ensure a successful car shipment.

To break down the steps involved in shipping a car while in the military, you should first obtain your orders, see if you are eligible for POV entitlements, and select a car shipping company that specializes in military auto shipping. It is important to understand the shipping timetable, as well as any vehicle restrictions that may apply.

To ensure a smooth and successful car shipment, it is crucial to properly prepare your vehicle for transport, communicate effectively with your chosen auto transport company, and make sure to inspect your vehicle thoroughly upon delivery.

Conclusively, always remember to follow regulations and guidelines related to military auto shipping. By taking the time to properly plan and prepare for your car shipment, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle will safely and efficiently arrive at your new duty station.

FAQs

Q: What is military car shipping?
A: Military car shipping is the process of transporting a car from one location to another for military personnel, including Army members.

Q: How does military car shipping work?
A: Military car shipping involves selecting a reputable auto transport company, preparing your car for shipment, and arranging for the pickup and delivery of your vehicle to its destination.

Q: Who is eligible for military car shipping?
A: Active duty military personnel and their dependents, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve, are eligible for military car shipping.

Q: Can I choose my own auto transport company for military car shipping?
A: Yes, you can choose your own auto transport company for military car shipping, but it is recommended that you select a company with experience in military car shipping to ensure a smooth and successful shipment.

Q: How much does military car shipping cost?
A: The cost of military car shipping varies depending on several factors, including the distance of the shipment, the type of vehicle, and the chosen method of transportation.

Q: How long does military car shipping take?
A: The length of time it takes for military car shipping to be completed depends on several factors, such as the distance of the shipment, the chosen method of transportation, and any unforeseen delays.

Q: What should I do if there is damage to my vehicle during military car shipping?
A: If your vehicle is damaged during military car shipping, you should contact the auto transport company immediately to report the damage and file a claim. It is important to document any damage with photos and keep all relevant paperwork.

Some Final Thoughts

Military families that must deal with frequent moves sometimes face the issue of transferring several automobiles. During a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) relocation, the government will transport one automobile for each military member; however, any extra cars are the military member’s responsibility. Thankfully, there are a number of solutions available to streamline the procedure, including self-towing, driving the car yourself, or depending on specialized shipping firms for hassle-free transportation.

Call our military-specific auto shipping specialist at (866) 821-4555 to ensure a simple and convenient vehicle shipping experience. Ship A Car, Inc. is dedicated to offering top-notch service at the best possible rates. Don’t forget to ask about our special savings designed just for delivery to military personnel. So that you can concentrate on the other parts of your relocation, trust us to manage your automobile transportation needs with the highest care and effectiveness.