This guide explains the rules and processes for moving your vehicle during a PCS. The process is very different depending on whether your move is within the continental U.S. (CONUS) or to/from an overseas (OCONUS) location. Use this information to understand your responsibilities and the official procedures for getting your vehicle to your new home.

The process for moving your vehicle depends entirely on your type of move. The government has different rules and entitlements depending on whether you are moving within the continental U.S. (CONUS) or to/from an overseas (OCONUS) location.

Overview

For most overseas moves, the government will pay to ship one vehicle for you through its official contractor. For domestic moves, you are generally expected to drive. All official shipping and storage arrangements are managed through the website PCSmyPOV.com. This is where you will find vehicle processing centers (VPCs), view required documents, and schedule your appointments. Remember, all turn-ins and pickups are by appointment only.

Important considerations before you start

Before you begin the POV process, there are a few key factors that can affect your ability to ship or store your vehicle. Address these issues early to prevent major headaches later.

 

For a move between two locations within the lower 48 states, the government expects you to drive your vehicle to your new duty station.

To help with the cost, you are entitled to a mileage reimbursement and a per diem allowance for food and lodging during your travel days. This is known as Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation, or MALT. If you choose not to drive and instead ship your vehicle at your own expense, you are still typically entitled to this allowance. Contact your local transportation office or personnel office for more information.

Using your vehicle for a partial PPM

Since you will be driving your vehicle for a CONUS move, this is also a perfect opportunity to move some of your personal belongings yourself. This is a common practice known as a partial Personally Procured Move (PPM). You can use the space in your car to transport essentials, valuables, or any other items you want to keep with you during your trip.

To learn more about how this works, see our Guide to Personally Procured Moves.

If your move is to or from an overseas location (including Alaska and Hawaii), the government will generally pay to ship one POV that you own or lease. The process is managed by a contracted company, International Auto Logistics (IAL), and has very specific rules you must follow.

Key OCONUS considerations

Before you start the process, it's important to understand the key limitations and requirements.

The vehicle turn-in process

To ensure your vehicle is accepted for shipment, you must prepare it correctly. Beyond being clean with 1/4 tank of fuel or less, your vehicle must also be in safe, operable condition.

• Brakes: Your parking brake and service brakes must be fully functional.

• No Leaks: The vehicle cannot have any significant leaks of oil, antifreeze, or other fluids.

• Windshield: The windshield must be free of major cracks that could obstruct the driver's view.

• Tires: Tires must be in good condition and meet safety standards.

In addition to preparing your vehicle for shipment, you must also bring the required paperwork to your appointment. Be prepared to provide a valid set of military orders (with all amendments), proof of ownership, and a government-issued ID. Remember, if your vehicle is leased you will need to provide the required authorization letter from your lienholder.

The vehicle pickup process

When your vehicle arrives at the destination Vehicle Processing Center (VPC), you will be notified to schedule a pickup appointment. On the day of pickup, you should plan to do two things:

1. Thoroughly inspect your vehicle. Before you leave the VPC, walk around your entire car and note any new scratches, dents, or other damage that was not on the original inspection form. This is your primary opportunity to document any potential claims.

2. Check your battery. It is common for a vehicle's battery to lose its charge during a long shipment. If that should occur, the VPC has the capability to assist customers with a dead battery using a jump pack if necessary.

Storage options and reimbursement

If you are authorized vehicle storage, you have the option to use a commercial storage facility instead of the government-contracted one. The safest option is to use the government facility, which guarantees you will have no out-of-pocket storage expenses. If you choose a commercial facility that charges more than the official government rate, you will be required to pay the difference. Also, make sure to bring your authorization letter from your Transportation Office (TO) to the VPC when you turn in your vehicle.

Buying a car overseas

Many people consider buying a vehicle while stationed overseas, but it is critical to understand the challenges of bringing it back to the U.S. Vehicles manufactured for foreign markets often do not meet U.S. safety and emission standards. Converting a vehicle to meet these requirements can be extremely expensive, if not impossible. Always research a vehicle's import eligibility before you buy.

Your move, Our mission - Personal Property Activity