Does the military pay for car transport?

The military typically covers the transport costs of one privately owned vehicle (POV) for members relocating from a base outside the contiguous U.S. to a continental base and vice versa, aiding in efficient relocation for military servicemen and women. However, members usually have to bear the auto shipping costs themselves if they're moving within the contiguous U.S.

Efficient relocation is a frequent necessity for military servicemen and women. The military provides many benefits and resources to aid in these transitions, with vehicle transportation being one notable offering. This service especially becomes handy when under orders to move nationally or internationally. With the aid of such services, military personnel can carry out their duties without the additional concerns of logistical transitions.

Eligibility Criteria for Military-Sponsored Vehicle Shipment

As part of the expansive benefits package offered to military personnel, the United States Department of Defense provides vehicle transportation allowances under certain circumstances. Servicemen and women can access this bountiful provision upon a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or when being transferred overseas for an extended period. The intent is to help ease the transition and expenses related to the relocation process for military members and their families.

However, eligibility for this benefit is not broader but rather conditional, dictated by some specific rules and regulations. Foremost, typically, the military only covers the shipment of one privately owned vehicle (POV) for active-duty members moving overseas. In addition, only certain vehicles are eligible for military-sponsored shipment, most commonly compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. Any vehicle exceeding the size or weight restrictions may be excluded or require an additional cost to be borne by the serviceman or woman.

Common Circumstances When Military Pays for Car Shipment

Military-sponsored vehicle shipment is typically offered under explicit circumstances. One fundamental situation where the military might cover car transportation costs is in the event of a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). A PCS order often covers the cost of shipping one privately owned vehicle for overseas commands. At the same time, domestically, the military service member may receive a monetary allowance to cover the transportation costs.

Another circumstance when the military helps fund vehicle transportation is during deployments. Typically, a military service member can store a vehicle at the government's expense while on deployment. Equally important, when a service member is fatally injured, the Department of Defense assumes responsibility for transporting the deceased member’s vehicle back to the United States to their next of kin.