Complete Guide to Shipping Your Military POV

• October 23, 2020

Last updated on April 19, 2025

For military service members, moving to a new duty station often means transporting not only their household goods but also their personal vehicles. The U.S. Government will only ship one vehicle per service member, so if you have additional personal automobiles, you’ll need to ship them commercially on your own. This can be a daunting task, but with the right information and preparation, you can successfully ship your vehicle to your new duty station.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the whole life cycle of a shipment from collecting and comparing quotes from different logistics providers to confirming the import requirements for the destination country and receiving the vehicle at the destination.

Step 1: Collect and Compare Quotes from Different Logistics Providers

The first step in shipping your personal vehicle commercially is to collect and compare quotes from different logistics providers. Some factors to consider when collecting quotes include the origin and destination of the shipment, the type of vehicle, and the shipping method (e.g., containerized or roll-on/roll-off).
It’s important to remember that the cheapest quote may not always be the best option. You’ll want to ensure that the logistics provider you choose has a good reputation and is properly licensed and insured. Additionally, make sure to ask any questions you may have to ensure you fully understand the shipping process and the services included in the quote. At Trans Global, our quote will clearly list what services are included and excluded which is usually not the case with other logistic providers. If you’re ever not sure, you can always provide us the competing quote and we’ll point out anything their quote excludes so you can get clarification from them.

Step 2: Gather the Required Shipping Documents

Before your vehicle can be shipped, you’ll need to gather the required shipping documents. These documents typically include:
• Vehicle registration
• Proof of ownership
• Insurance documents
• Lien Letter
• Bill of Sale
Make sure to double-check the specific documents required by your logistics provider and the destination country. When you request a shipping quote from Trans Global, we’ll provide you a list of all requirement documents.

Step 3: Prepare the Vehicle for Shipment

Preparing your vehicle for shipment is an important step to ensure it arrives at its destination in good condition. Some tips for preparing your vehicle for shipment include:
• Cleaning the interior and exterior of the vehicle
• Removing any personal items from the vehicle
• Disabling any alarms or anti-theft devices
• Ensuring the vehicle has a quarter tank of fuel or less
• Removing any accessories or modifications that could be damaged during shipment

Step 4: Deliver the Vehicle to Port

When your vehicle is prepared for shipment and you’ve gathered the required shipping documents, it’s time to arrange for the pick-up of your vehicle. At Trans Global, we offer a convenient door-to-door delivery service, which means we can pick up your vehicle from your residence or any other location you specify.
Alternatively, if you prefer, you can also drop off your vehicle at one of our designated shipping locations. We have a network of over 40 terminals throughout the United States, making it easy for you to find a location that’s convenient for you.
When you schedule your vehicle pick-up, we’ll provide you with a date range for when you can expect your vehicle to be picked up. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process, so you always know the status of your shipment.
At Trans Global, we understand that your vehicle is important to you, which is why we take great care in preparing it for shipment. We’ll perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle and provide you with a condition report, so you can be confident that your vehicle is in good hands.

Step 5: Track the Shipment

Once your vehicle is on its way, you’ll want to track the shipment to ensure it arrives at its destination on time. Most logistics providers offer tracking services, so make sure to ask for tracking information and instructions on how to track your shipment. At Trans Global, you’ll receive an automated notification when your vehicle is delivered to the Origin Port. It will include the vessel information and a link to track your shipment.

Step 6: Confirm Import Requirements for Destination Country

Before your vehicle arrives at its destination, it’s important to confirm the import requirements for the destination country. This may include paying import duties or fees (most service members are except from duties), obtaining an import permit, or meeting certain vehicle specifications. At Trans Global, we understand the complexities of international shipping and will provide you with the necessary import requirements prior to shipment. Make sure to research the import requirements well in advance to avoid any delays or additional costs.

Step 7: Import Clearance and Receiving the Vehicle at Destination

Once your vehicle arrives at its destination, it will need to go through import clearance before it can be released to you. This may involve submitting additional paperwork or having the vehicle inspected.
After the import clearance is complete, you’ll be able to pick up your vehicle from the designated location. Alternatively, Trans Global offers delivery to the nearest customs house nearest your new duty station.

Shipping a personal vehicle commercially can seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation and information, you can successfully navigate the process. Don’t trust just any shipping provider with your personal vehicle. Choose Trans Global for reliable, affordable, and hassle-free shipping services specifically tailored to meet the needs of military service members. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you ship your personal vehicle.