PCS Moves: Protecting Your Vehicle and Property
When the military orders a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), it’s time to pack up your life and ship it to a new location. For service members stationed overseas, that often includes your vehicle. While the process is designed to ease the transition, it can be fraught with potential problems.
Unfortunately, PCS moves can sometimes turn into a logistical nightmare. Incidents such as damaged belongings, items lost in transit, and even theft have been reported. Military families have faced black mold inside vehicles, broken furniture, and the discovery of unwelcome guests like rodents in their boxes.
So, how can you protect yourself and your belongings during a PCS move? The right insurance coverage is a critical first step. It provides a measure of security during a potentially stressful time.
The military’s moving process is complex, involving multiple companies. One company might pack, another might move, and a third might handle unloading. Dates can shift unpredictably, sometimes changing two or three times. Summer PCS moves are particularly challenging, as over 40% occur during a 14-week period, according to the U.S. Transportation Command. This can lead to overbooked moving companies, overworked employees, and increased chances of loss or damage. Families can sometimes wait longer than expected to receive their belongings.
While certain aspects of PCS moves, such as moving date changes or theft, are difficult to control, there are proactive measures you can take to safeguard your property:
1. Insurance
Many insurance companies offer military discounts and specialized assistance for PCS moves, particularly with car insurance. This can include help with shipping your vehicle and registering it in your new location, even if it’s overseas. Several car insurance providers offer plans tailored to the unique needs of military members.
Because the lives of service members are unique, choosing insurance products designed for this population makes sense. Make sure that you compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to ensure you get the right coverage at the right price.
2. Documentation
Keep detailed records of valuable purchases. Verify these items are covered by your insurance policy, including during the move. Visiting the local office of your insurance provides a personal experience, resulting in a better understanding of coverage.
3. Photographs and Videos
Take pictures and videos of your valuables, including items that may be easily broken. These files will have a date stamp, providing proof of their condition before the move. The more proof you have, the more easily your claim will be processed.
4. Packing Your Possessions
While moving companies often pack belongings, consider personally packing essential items, knowing they will go on a rough journey. Boxes can be dropped and stacked too high. Take extra precautions to protect essential items before they go on the truck.
What to do if Your Car Arrives Damaged
If your vehicle is damaged upon arrival, you can take the following steps in addition to notifying your auto insurance provider:
- File a POV Claim: File a privately-owned-vehicle (POV) claim at the Vehicle Processing Center for a site settlement. The staff will use the Audatex Repair Guide and local labor rates to determine the repair cost.
- IAL Claims Office: File a loss and damage estimate claim with the IAL claims office at (855) 389-9499. Claims are handled within 90 days.
- Military Claims Office: You can also file a military claim through your branch’s Military Claims Office. Additional information about military claims is available.
Steps When Personal Property is Damaged or Stolen
- Military Claims Office: Contact the Military Claims Office for personal items.
- File an Inconvenience Claim: File an inconvenience claim for significant issues resulting from a missed delivery date. These claims require receipts and careful documentation.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Consult your local insurance branch for a thorough analysis of your individual situation. Keep your documentation.
PCS moves can be difficult. Document your belongings, review your insurance policy, retain your receipts, and note the contacts for damaged, lost, or stolen property.
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