The military generally covers the transport costs for one privately owned vehicle (POV) for service members relocating from a base outside the contiguous U.S. to a continental base and vice versa as part of the benefits offered to its service members. However, if the relocation is within the contiguous U.S., members usually have to bear the auto shipping costs.
The U.S military offers various benefits to its service members, which extend far beyond traditional allowances. These advantages include healthcare, pensions, education opportunities, and allowances for taxation, mortgage, and vehicle transportation. One of these often-overlooked benefits is the military-prepared transportation facility for privately owned vehicles (POVs). This service allows military members to relocate their vehicles during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS).
Eligibility Criteria for Military-Funded Car Shipping
Acquiring the privilege to ship a vehicle under the military cost occurs under specific guidelines. The most common recipients of this advantage are the active-duty military personnel. This benefit gets extended to their spouses in case the member is deployed, retired members, and, in particular instances, civilian employees. However, it's important to note that the benefit can be curtailed based on the rank of the military personnel and any subsequent change in their status, such as leaving their assignment in the base.
Due to the variation in benefits from one service member to another, all intending applicants must seek authorization from their designated personnel office. This application must provide proof of orders for Permanent Change of Station (PCS). Moreover, the vehicle in question should conform to the size and weight requirements outlined in Military criteria. For example, vehicles with excessive dimensions may not be eligible for military-funded shipping. it's important to gather all the necessary documents and meet all the stipulated criteria before initiating the shipping process.
The Process of Military Car Shipping
Active duty service members are often required to relocate domestically and internationally bases. Moving a vehicle via Military Car Shipping is a comprehensive process that alleviates the stress of physically transporting a personal vehicle. This offers a significant ease to military personnel, allowing them to focus on other pressing matters related to the transition. Moreover, choosing a reputable shipping provider ensures a straightforward process and the safe shipment of the vehicle.
Commencing with the request for car shipment, the military personnel must submit an application containing relevant details about the vehicle, current location, and destination. Following approval, the service member is informed of the scheduled pick-up date. The vehicle is then transported to a designated facility for inspection and recorded under a Vehicle Condition Report, which is crucial for insurance purposes. With the consolidation of the formalities, the vehicle is set for overseas shipment, followed by delivery at the final destination. Ensuring the military personnel's needs are met effectively is paramount in military car shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
The benefits of military car shipping include safe and efficient transportation of your vehicle, potential cost savings, and less hassle in managing the relocation of your vehicle.
Generally, active duty, reserve members, and sometimes retired military personnel are eligible for military-funded car shipping. The specifics may vary based on the policies of the respective military branch and the nature of the move (e.g., overseas vs. domestic).
Military car shipping typically involves submitting a request, preparing your vehicle for shipment, dropping it off at a designated location, and picking it up at the destination or having it delivered. The exact process may vary depending on the military branch and the shipping company.
Before shipping your vehicle, you'll need to clean it, remove personal items, and document its current condition for insurance purposes. You may also need to maintain a certain gas level in the tank.
Most military branches offer some form of vehicle shipping benefits, especially for overseas deployments or permanent change of station moves. Nevertheless, the benefits and eligibility criteria may vary by branch and individual circumstances. It's best to check with your specific branch for detailed information.