Will the Military Ship My Car Stateside?

When it comes to military personnel and their vehicle needs, questions often arise like "Will the military ship my car stateside?" The direct answer is yes - the military does offer a Personal Procured Move (PPM) program that includes moving privately owned vehicles for service members who receive Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. However, certain conditions apply and there are limitations you need to be aware of. This article will provide an in-depth examination of services, costs, and what members can expect when they need to move their autos.

Understanding the Military's Personal Procured Move (PPM) Program

The PPM program is a special provision provided by the military to facilitate the movement of members' goods, including their privately owned vehicles, during a PCS move. A company is typically involved in the process, ensuring the safe hauling from one station to another. This program is designed to ease the transition for personnel, reducing the burden of moving and allowing them to focus on their assignments. While the PPM program offers many benefits, it's important to understand its application and who can take advantage of it. Specifically, the PPM program applies to active-duty members who are undergoing a PCS move.

Conditions for Delivering

While the PPM program provides for moving, it's not as simple as making a request. There are specific conditions under which it would be eligible for shipment stateside. first of all, the service member must be relocating due to PCS orders. Secondly, the vehicle being moved must be a privately owned auto. Additionally, the costs are covered based on the weight and the distance of the move. Be sure to check with your office to understand the specific limitations and conditions that may apply to your situation.

The Process

Embarking on the process can seem daunting, but understanding the steps involved can make it more manageable. first of all, ensure you have your PCS orders and all necessary documentation for your vehicle. Next, reach out to a reputable company for a quote and schedule your automobile for pickup. The company will inspect it, load it onto the delivery, and begin the journey stateside. You'll be provided with tracking information so you can monitor the progress of your shipment. Upon arrival at the destination, your auto will be inspected again before being released to you. It should be pointed out that while the military covers some costs, you may be responsible for certain charges, so always check with your office and the company for detailed information.

Choosing the Right Firm

When it comes to moving, finding the right company is crucial. Look for a company that specializes in moving, as they'll have a deeper understanding of the unique needs and challenges of military moves. Check their reputation online and ask for testimonials from other service members. Most importantly, ensure that they offer a discount. Many companies recognize the sacrifices made by our armed forces and offer discounts as a small way of saying thank you.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipment

Before it is picked up by the company, there are several steps you should take to ensure a smooth process. In the first place, remove all personal items from your car. The military only allows for the shipment of one privately owned vehicle, so any additional items could lead to extra costs or complications. Secondly, ensure it is in good working order. If there are any mechanical issues, these should be addressed before delivery. Lastly, document the condition through photos or video. This will be useful in the unlikely event of any damage.

Arriving at Your New Duty Station

Upon arriving at your new duty station, you'll need to collect it from the designated pick-up location. Be sure to inspect it thoroughly for any potential damage that may have occurred. If everything is in order, you can then proceed to register it at your new duty station. Remember, while the process can be complex, it's designed to alleviate some of the stress of relocating, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home and duties.

Call to Action

If you're a member preparing for a PCS move and need to move stateside, don't hesitate. Reach out to reputable companies that specialize in moving. Make sure to ask about their discounts and services tailored specifically for service members like you. Remember, when it comes to moving to a new duty station, you have enough on your plate. Let the professionals handle the logistics of getting it safely to your new home. You've dedicated yourself to serving our country. Now let us serve you.