Shipping Vehicle

Prep Your Vehicle for Shipment

Military members are authorized one Personally Operated Vehicle (POV) shipment at government expense. If married to another military member, then each are entitled to ship a POV at government expense.

Prep Your POV

  • Gas Tank: Gas tank must be exactly 1/4 full or less when you turn in your vehicle or they will turn away your car.
  • Maintenance: Change old batteries, tires, oil and do general car maintenance before shipping.
  • Clean & Wash: Clean the inside and outside of your vehicle very well a day or so before shipping.
  • Photos & Video: Take clear photos and video of each angle of the exterior and interior of your vehicle, especially:
    front/rear bumper, underside, roof, wheels, antennas, navigation/tech screens, & pre-existing damage.
  • Remove Personal Items: Take out any personal items or accessories before dropping off your vehicle.
  • Safety Vehicle Recall: It is important to verify there are no open safety vehicle recalls. To identify this it is best to contact an official dealer. Shipping may be terminated if there is a safety recall that has not been addressed.

Vehicle Storage

Vehicle storage is not authorized unless specifically stated in orders.

Ship Your Personally Operated Vehicle (POV)

To ship your POV overseas, you will need to drop off your vehicle at a Vehicle Processing Center (VPC). To make appointments, learn about shipping, or track your POV shipment, visit PCS My POV.

To Ship

  • Make an appointment online to drop off your POV
  • Clean and prepare your car for drop off
  • Bring all necessary documents to your appointment:
    • 2 Copies of your shipping forms
    • 1 copy of your PCS Orders
    • Military or valid government ID
    • Proof of vehicle ownership, vehicle must be in DoD member’s name
    • Power of Attorney (POA) if DoD Member is not present for POV drop off
  • Complete pre-inspection at VPC entrance gate
  • Check-in at VPC to have your documents reviewed
  • Complete vehicle inspection with VPC inspector
    • The inspection form is your proof as to the condition of your vehicle prior to shipment. Ensure that it is accurate. Don’t feel rushed by inspectors.
  • Keep your shipping summary and inspection forms – you’ll need them to pick up your vehicle at the overseas VPC.

Before Arrival Topics