Preparing for a permanent change of station (PCS), temporary duty travel (TDY) or deployment can be a lot of work. This is especially true if you're headed outside the continental U.S., also known as OCONUS. Packing and moving your belongings, finding new housing and planning travel become extra challenging when going overseas.
One big item on the to-do list is figuring out what to do with your car.
Shipping is an option, although you can usually only ship one vehicle at government expense when transferring to or from an OCONUS duty station. For that reason, many military service members and their families choose to sell their secondary vehicle or leave it behind rather than pay out of pocket to ship it.
If you're not planning to ship your car, here are several things you need to do to ensure it's ready when you return.
Choose where to store your vehicle.
If you choose to leave your car, you'll need to decide what to do with it. You may have options available, depending on where you live and what you're comfortable with.
Leave it with friends or family.
One easy and inexpensive option is to put your car in the care of friends or family. They can keep an eye on the vehicle and may even be able to drive it periodically to keep the battery charged and get it serviced if needed.
In some circumstances, you may decide to let them use it while you're gone. If so, make sure you discuss expectations before you go, such as frequency of use or travel distances. And of course, you'll need to make sure any drivers are added to your auto insurance policy.
If you'll store the car on their property, help keep it protected from the elements. You may want to use a weatherproof car cover if the vehicle won't be sheltered.
It's also a good idea to check in monthly, if possible while you're gone. Then, if any issues arise you can deal with them as quickly as possible.
Store it on base.
Another option is to store your car on base. Most bases offer a designated parking lot for deployments, or there may be government-procured storage facilities available. Review the requirements, restrictions and process for storing a vehicle on base and then speak with your base transportation office to learn about your options(Opens in New Window). See note 1
Although this can be a more cost-effective route, not all bases or contracted providers will offer the same level of service. That's why it's important to figure out the conditions of the storage facility or parking area, how it will be monitored or secured, and whether your vehicle will be driven or serviced while you're away.
Keep it in a commercial storage facility.
If you want a little more control and security while your vehicle is in storage, opt for a commercial storage facility. You have many options, including climate-controlled self-storage units, secured covered parking, and even specialty auto storage services that will maintain your vehicle.
Again, the pros and cons of each vary based on the provider and your specific needs.
Prepare your vehicle for long-term storage.
If you're leaving a car behind during your next overseas PCS or deployment, there are a few things you'll want to do before your departure. These steps will help ensure your car is in the best condition when you return.
Remove your valuables.
Before you store your car, take out any valuables. Anything stored in your car can be a target for theft — especially if it's visible to passersby.
That means even if you choose a designated car storage facility or covered parking area where multiple vehicles are kept together, it's better that all valuables are removed, just in case.
One possible exception is if your car is in a private storage unit at a secured facility. As long as you're the only person with access to the unit, you may be able to safely store some of your other possessions in or around your vehicle if needed.
Clean your vehicle thoroughly, inside and out.
Detailing your car before you put it into storage may seem counterintuitive, but dust, grease, and grime can cause damage to your car over time. Not to mention the possibility of bad smells developing while you're away. A good coat of wax after a wash adds an extra layer of protection, especially if your car will be exposed to the elements.
Depending on where your vehicle is stored, you may also want to plug your tailpipe and seal any other crevices to keep critters out. And while some folks recommend mothballs or peppermint oil as an extra pest deterrent, don't bother according to some major pest removal organizations. They may not be effective.
Use a car cover.
A car cover is an inexpensive way to keep your car protected from dirt, dust, contaminants and objects that could scratch or dent the exterior. Car cover materials will differ for indoor and outdoor use, so select the one that matches where you'll store your vehicle. Also, be sure to choose the size that's right for your make and model.
Check maintenance and freshen fluids.
If you're going to allow family or friends to use your car while you're on duty, make sure everything is in good working order. Also be sure to take stock of any existing problems or damage. Not only will this make things easier on whoever is driving your car, but it'll also help you avoid later disputes if your vehicle is damaged while you're away.
That said, even if your car won't be in use during your PCS or deployment, it still needs a little special treatment before you put it in storage. Here are a few key things to take care of:
Fuel
For vehicles being stored, it's recommended that the car contain no more than a quarter tank of fuel(Opens in New Window). See note 1 However, it's best to ask your mechanic if you have questions. They might recommend you use a high-octane fuel or add a fuel stabilizer. This is because gasoline tends to break down over time, which can damage your car's fuel line or engine.
Fluids
While fuel should typically be limited during long-term storage, other fluids, such as antifreeze, brake fluid and oil, should be topped up before you leave to prevent corrosion and rust. Be sure you don't have any leaks either.
Battery
If your battery is more than two years old, you may want to replace it with a fresh battery before you put it in storage. Some facilities will periodically move your vehicle while it's being stored, so if your battery dies, you'll have to pay to replace it. If you know your car won't be driven, you may want to disconnect the negative battery terminal(Opens in New Window). See note 1 Just don't forget it's unplugged when you get back.
Do you still need insurance while your car is in storage?
Insurance is one final thing to keep in mind when you leave a car behind. Obviously, if someone besides you will be using your car on a regular basis while you're gone, that person should be added to your insurance coverage.
But what if no one is driving the car?
While you may think it's unnecessary to insure your car if it's just sitting in storage, that's not always the case. In fact, some insurers may increase your rates if you cancel service and then sign up again later, so you may actually save money in the long run by keeping your coverage active.
The other good news is that many insurers provide discounts on auto insurance when a car is in long-term storage. With USAA, that discount could be as high as 60% off. See note 2
If you allow family or trusted friends to use the car while you're on duty, you may still qualify for a discount if they drive it infrequently or if it's garaged on a military installation.
Regardless of where and how you store your vehicle, it's important to talk to your insurer before you leave. Let your insurer know where it's garaged and get the vehicle protection you need for peace of mind.
Insuring your vehicle
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