Rules & Restrictions You Need to Know Before Military POV Shipping Hawaii

If you are wondering how to PCS my POV, there are two options for you. First, you can have it shipped through military contracted carriers. Second, you can make shipping arrangements using the Personally Procured Move Program or PPM. 

Military vehicle shipping Hawaii via military contracted carriers is probably the most convenient option. However, take note the military will not pay for POV shippings. They will only do so under the following circumstances: 

• Qualifying Department of Defense civilian employees
• Separated or retired military service member

To know whether you qualify for POV entitlements and what are the shipping rates offered by military contracted carriers, it is best to contact your local property office ahead of time. Notify them about your upcoming Hawaii military relocation. 

There are several rules when shipping your military POV to Hawaii. But, don't worry because these are rather simple. 

The most important rule to remember when about your POV when you PCS to Hawaii is about the documentation. These are the general documents you will need: 

• Proof Identity- This refers to government-issued or valid state identification. You have to bring it with you to claim your vehicle. 
  
• Proof of Entitlement- These are copies of your official amendments and orders. 
  
• Proof of Vehicle Ownership- These are documents that verify that you are the owner of the POV. You can use the vehicle's title or proof of registration for this as long your name is indicated on it. 

Additional Lien Holder Authorization- Suppose your vehicle is under financing or a loan. In this case, you will also need to provide authorization to have the vehicle shipped to another state from them. Ensure that the lienholder's information and contact details are verified and open because shipping companies will get in touch with them for verification. 

Once your POV arrives in Hawaii, you have to register it with the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles within 30 days. These are the basic steps on how to register your POV in Hawaii:

1. Get a valid Hawaii POV Insurance
2. Submit your POV for a Hawaii safety check
3. Get a non-resident certificate from CSL50
4. Register the POV

Also, note that Hawaii is a "No-Fault State" and has unique requirements for POV Insurance. Make sure to contact your insurer and ask whether your policy is valid in Hawaii or if your insurance card is up to the standards of Hawaii. Besides, you won't be able to move forward with the registration if you don't have this in order. 

In addition, your POV must pass the Hawaii Safety Inspection to get registered. This inspection can be done in various garages within the state. 

You can go to the nearest one if it's the most convenient for you. But, take note that these inspections are done on an appointment basis and make sure that the garage is qualified to provide the safety inspection. 

Here are some tips that will help you prepare your military POV for shipping to Hawaii: 

• Wash Your Car
  You might not think it's a good idea to clean your car when you are shipping it. However, this will allow you to see existing damages and identify if more are added once you claim them in the destination port. 

• Document Damages
  Your POV probably has some small dents and scratches. If it doesn't, then the more that you need to document its condition before prior shipping. Although shipping companies make sure to avoid causing damage on POVs, there are instances when these are unavoidable. But, the prior documentation can help make the insurance process of repairing the damages incurred during transport more manageable. 

• Remove Personal Items
  Technically, you are allowed to ship some basic items with your POV. These can include safety vehicle kits, tire irons, and spare. You may also ship strollers and car seats along with it. You can also ship together car top carriers that fit inside the POV.

However, do this at your own risk. A lot can happen along the way, and these items are most of the time not covered by insurance, so to be safe, better remove them. 

Also, if there are liquids or flammable items on your vehicle, make sure to remove those as well. Electronic add-ons mounted on your vehicle should also be removed before shipping. 

• Do Necessary Maintenance
  Another thing that you should do before shipping your vehicle is to do the necessary maintenance. You can start by checking for leaks or any kind of mechanical issue. If you notice that there are problems, make sure to get it fixed before the vehicle is picked up for shipping. 

Other things that you should check are the following: 

• Battery Charge- Make sure that the battery is fully charged. 
• Tire Pressure- The tires should be inflated properly. 
• Mileage- Take note of the POV's mileage at pickup and delivery.
• Empty the Gas Tank

There's no need to fill up your vehicle's gas tank when shipping it because it will be transported and not driven. Besides, a full tank means that your vehicle is heavier, and this can mean that you have to pay for more.

Ideally, your gas tank should only have a quarter of its full capacity. This will be enough for you to drive it off after pickup without worrying that you will run out of gas. 

• Remove Outside Accessories
  Military personnel take pride in their vehicle's modifications. However, these can be damaged during shipping, so it's best to remove them ahead of time. These outside accessories can include custom spoilers, retractable antennas, rooftop boxes, bike racks, and many more.
  

There are several factors that affect the cost of military car shipping to Hawaii. If you are going for DIY POV shipping, these are the common factors that affect the cost: 

Vehicle Size and Weight

The bigger and the heavier the vehicle is, the more expensive it will be. Different car shipping companies have their own rates. You can take advantage of free quote offers to get an estimated cost for your vehicle. 

Container

Car shipping companies have different types of shipping methods that cater to various needs and budgets. You can choose open shipping if you are budget conscious. Still, if you want to add an extra layer of protection for your vehicle, you can opt for enclosed shipping. But, take note that this type of shipping method can be significantly more expensive. 

Moving from one state to another might sound dreadful, but it's a huge part of military life, so it's something that you have to get used to it. Besides, there are some instances that you are entitled to army PCS move pay, so the process will not put a huge dent in your pocket. Take note of the rules and regulations above because they will also help make things a lot easier.