How U.S. Military Members Ship Vehicles Overseas
When Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders involve an overseas assignment, one of the biggest logistical challenges military families face is how to ship a vehicle internationally. Whether you’re headed to Germany, Japan, Guam, or another duty station abroad, understanding the shipping process is essential for a smooth transition.
At Transportvibe, we specialize in helping military families navigate the complex world of POV (Privately Owned Vehicle) overseas shipping. This guide explains everything service members need to know in 2025 — from entitlements and eligibility to paperwork, timelines, and trusted shipping methods.
Table of Contents
- What Is Military POV Shipping?
- Who Is Eligible to Ship a Vehicle Overseas?
- Does the Military Pay for Overseas Car Shipping?
- Where Can You Ship a Military Vehicle Overseas?
- What Documents Are Required to Ship a POV Abroad?
- Step-by-Step Process to Ship a Military Car Overseas
- Military Auto Shipping Methods Explained
- Common Challenges in Overseas Military Car Shipping
- FAQs: Overseas Vehicle Shipping for Service Members
- Summary and Recommendation
What Is Military POV Shipping?
POV shipping refers to the relocation of a service member’s personal car or motorcycle during a PCS move. For overseas assignments (OCONUS), the U.S. government typically pays for the shipment of one privately owned vehicle.
POV shipping is coordinated through the Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) system operated by the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) and International Auto Logistics (IAL).
Who Is Eligible to Ship a Vehicle Overseas?
Eligibility is generally extended to:
- Active duty members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard
- Full-time National Guard and Reserve personnel
- DOD civilians (in certain cases)
You must:
- Have valid PCS orders to an overseas duty station
- Be authorized to ship a POV based on your orders
- Own or lease the vehicle under your name (or dependent’s)
Does the Military Pay for Overseas Car Shipping?
Yes, in most OCONUS PCS moves, the Department of Defense will cover the cost of one vehicle per service member. The following conditions apply:
- The vehicle must be owned or leased by the service member or dependent
- The vehicle must meet size and weight restrictions (typically under 20 ft in length and 7 ft in height)
Optional Costs Not Covered:
- Enclosed transport upgrades
- Additional vehicles
- Port storage fees
- Insurance beyond basic coverage
Where Can You Ship a Military Vehicle Overseas?
Common PCS destinations include:
- Germany
- South Korea
- Japan
- Italy
- Guam
- Hawaii
- Alaska (technically not OCONUS but often requires ocean shipping)
Transportvibe Tip: Always verify the specific import rules and restrictions for your destination country.
What Documents Are Required to Ship a POV Abroad?
Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- PCS orders
- Government-issued photo ID
- Original vehicle title or lease agreement
- Registration and proof of insurance
- Power of Attorney (if someone else is dropping off or picking up the car)
- Emissions certification (depending on destination)
Make two physical copies of each document and scan digital backups.
Step-by-Step Process to Ship a Military Car Overseas
- Confirm Eligibility Through Your Transportation Office
- Visit your local base’s Transportation Office (TO) or PPSO.
- Schedule an Appointment with a VPC
- Use www.pcsmypov.com to book drop-off.
- Prepare the Vehicle
- Clean inside and out, disable alarms, remove personal items, gas tank under 1/4 full.
- Drop Off the Vehicle at a VPC
- Bring your documents and conduct a pre-shipping inspection.
- Track Shipment
- Use the IAL online portal to follow progress.
- Pick Up at Destination Port
- Schedule collection through local VPC or designated terminal.
Military Auto Shipping Methods Explained
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo)
- Most common method for military vehicles
- Inexpensive and efficient
- Vehicle is driven onto the ship’s deck
Container Shipping
- Ideal for high-value cars or when shipping household goods too
- More expensive, but added protection
Port-to-Port vs Door-to-Port
- Military PCS shipments usually follow a port-to-port model
- You’ll drop off at a U.S. VPC and pick up from an overseas location
Common Challenges in Overseas Military Car Shipping
- Delay in documentation or VPC appointment
- Vehicle fails inspection (e.g., gas too full, personal items left)
- Damage during transit
- Customs clearance delays overseas
- Storage fees due to late pickup
Transportvibe Tip: Take photos before and after shipping for insurance purposes and always arrive early for your VPC appointment.
Does the military ship a second car overseas?
No, only one POV is covered per service member. Additional vehicles must be shipped at your own cost.
Can I leave personal items in the car?
No. The vehicle must be completely empty except for the spare tire, jack, and legally required safety gear.
How long does it take to ship a military car overseas?
Delivery typically takes 30–60 days depending on your destination and port schedules.
Do I need to be present at the drop-off or pickup?
Not necessarily. You can designate someone using a notarized Power of Attorney (POA).
Can I track my car during overseas shipping?
Yes, the IAL portal allows tracking with your VIN or shipping number.
Summary and Recommendation
Shipping a car overseas as a U.S. military member may seem complicated, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it becomes a manageable part of your PCS journey. Understand your entitlements, organize your documents, and use official VPC channels for secure delivery.
At Transportvibe, we honor your service by helping you find trusted international vehicle shippers who understand military protocols. Whether you’re headed to Japan, Germany, or Guam, we’re here to support your move every mile of the way.
Get a Free Military Shipping Quote for your overseas PCS vehicle transport.
