Does the military ship your car?

1. Eligibility Criteria for Military-Sponsored Vehicle Shipping
2. Process of Applying for Military Car Shipping

Yes, the military provides vehicle shipping services for its personnel during relocations. However, eligibility is based on specific conditions and requirements the Department of Defense sets.

Relocating is a frequent aspect of military life, and with it comes the challenge of transporting personal belongings, including vehicles. While the military offers vehicle shipping services to ease this transition, not all personnel or situations qualify. This article delves into the specifics of military-sponsored vehicle shipping, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

Eligibility Criteria for Military-Sponsored Vehicle Shipping

Relocation is a common occurrence in military life and often involves transportation of personal vehicles. However, not all military personnel qualify for military-sponsored vehicle shipping. The Department of Defense has set forth specific criteria determining eligibility. Only one personal vehicle owned by a US military service member can be transported at government expense. This facility caters to active-duty military, reserve, National Guard, or Department of Defense civilian personnel under permanent change of station orders. Additionally, the qualifying individuals must be moving to or from an overseas location where they can bring a personal car.

Furthermore, the vehicle being shipped must comply with specific requirements. The vehicle should be self-propelled, licensed, and in legal running condition under their power. It excludes hazardous vehicles, such as those with cracked or damaged windshields, windows, or leaking fluids. Recreational vehicles, including campers and trailers, are not eligible under this program either. Lastly, the motorbike or the vehicle should not exceed 20 measurement tons. Various other restrictions and conditions apply depending upon one's specific situation, calling for a comprehensive understanding of the eligibility factors before applying.

Process of Applying for Military Car Shipping

The application process begins with verification of eligibility, which is accomplished by submitting relevant documentation to confirm one's status in the military. Service members should be prepared to provide proof of orders for the Permanent Change of Station (PCS) in addition to their military ID. They also need to ensure all vehicle registration details are up to date. This is because the military will only ship vehicles legally owned by the service member or their spouse that meet the size requirements for military shipping.

After successful confirmation of eligibility, one can then proceed with the process of booking their vehicle shipment. The military allows only one personally owned vehicle (POV) to be shipped at their expense. Service members can contact the vehicle processing center (VPC) to arrange for the vehicle drop-off. The VPC also offers guidance and comprehensive information regarding vehicle preparations, specific requirements, and the overall shipping process. Having all required documentation ready to streamline the procedure and avoid any delays is beneficial.