Quick Answer
Vehicle storage during deployment costs $50-$175/month at off-base facilities, with many offering 10-20% military discounts. Some bases offer free or low-cost on-post storage. Plan at least 60 days ahead, set up a POA through JAG, adjust your insurance, and properly prep the vehicle. The SCRA protects your right to break a lease early with PCS or deployment orders.
Vehicle Storage Options for Service Members
You have several options depending on your timeline, budget, and what is available at your installation.
| Storage Option |
Monthly Cost |
Pros |
Cons |
| On-Base (MWR/Auto Skills) |
$0-$50 |
Free or cheap, on-base security |
Limited spots, outdoor only, waitlists |
| Off-Base Outdoor |
$50-$100 |
Affordable, widely available |
Weather exposure, less security |
| Off-Base Covered |
$75-$150 |
Rain/UV protection, good value |
Not available everywhere |
| Off-Base Indoor |
$100-$250 |
Full protection, best security |
Higher cost |
| Friend/Family |
$0 |
Free, someone can check on it |
Imposes on relationship, liability risk |
Deployment Storage Timeline
Use this timeline to make sure everything is handled before you deploy. Starting early avoids last-minute scrambles.
90 Days Before Deployment:
- Check on-base storage availability through MWR or the transportation office
- Research off-base storage facilities and compare military discount rates
- Decide whether to store, sell, or ship the vehicle
60 Days Before:
- Reserve your storage spot (on-base fills up fast)
- Visit JAG to set up a specific Power of Attorney for your vehicle
- Contact your insurance company about deployment adjustments
- Start gathering supplies for vehicle prep (fuel stabilizer, battery tender, cover)
30 Days Before:
- Complete vehicle maintenance (oil change, coolant check, tire inspection)
- Make copies of all vehicle documents (title, registration, insurance) for your POA holder
- Set up automatic payment for storage fees or prepay the full deployment period
1 Week Before:
- Prep the vehicle: fill tank, add stabilizer, connect battery tender, inflate tires
- Photograph the vehicle's condition (exterior, interior, mileage) for insurance records
- Deliver vehicle to storage and confirm POA holder has access information
- Remove all valuables and personal documents from the vehicle
Power of Attorney: What You Need to Know
A Power of Attorney (POA) is essential for vehicle storage during deployment. Without one, nobody can access your vehicle, handle payments, file insurance claims, or retrieve it in an emergency.
- Use a specific/limited POA. This limits the authority to vehicle-related actions only - much safer than a general POA.
- Get it notarized at JAG. The base legal office provides free POA preparation and notarization. No need to pay a civilian attorney.
- Name a trusted person. Your spouse, parent, or close friend. They should be local to the storage facility or willing to travel if needed.
- Include specific powers: Access the storage facility, make storage payments, maintain insurance, authorize maintenance, and retrieve the vehicle.
- Give copies to the storage facility. They need it on file in case your POA holder needs access.
- Set an expiration date. Match it to your expected return date plus a 90-day buffer.
Military Discounts and SCRA Protections
Military discounts: Most major storage chains and many independent facilities offer 10-20% military discounts. Always ask, even if it is not advertised. Common discounts:
- 10-15% off monthly rate with valid military ID
- Free first month with long-term commitment
- Waived admin/setup fees
- Free lock with new rental
SCRA protections: The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides important protections:
- You can terminate a storage lease early without penalty if you receive PCS or deployment orders
- The facility cannot auction or lien your stored property while you are on active duty
- Interest rates on pre-service debts are capped at 6%
- Provide a copy of your orders to invoke SCRA protections
PCS Vehicle Storage Tips
PCS moves present unique vehicle storage challenges, especially for OCONUS assignments where you may not be able to bring your car. Here is what to consider:
- OCONUS PCS: The military will ship one POV (privately owned vehicle) to most overseas locations. If you have a second vehicle, you will need to store it stateside. Budget $50-$175/month for the duration of your tour (typically 2-3 years).
- Short PCS (under 12 months): Storage is usually the best option. Selling and rebuying loses money on transaction costs.
- Long PCS (2+ years): Run the math on storage costs versus selling. At $100/month, 3 years of storage costs $3,600. If your car depreciates more than that while sitting, selling may be smarter.
- Choose storage near your home of record or next duty station for easier retrieval. Use our cost calculator to compare rates in both locations.
- Set up automatic payments. Do not rely on remembering to pay from overseas. A missed payment can result in liens or auction of your vehicle.
Find Military-Friendly Vehicle Storage
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Military Vehicle Storage FAQ
Does the military pay for vehicle storage during deployment?
The military does not directly pay for vehicle storage during deployment. However, some bases offer free or low-cost storage on post. Your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) and other PCS entitlements can help offset costs. Additionally, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allows you to terminate a storage lease early if you receive deployment or PCS orders.
How much does vehicle storage cost near military bases?
Vehicle storage near military bases costs $50-$175/month depending on the type and location. Many facilities near bases offer 10-20% military discounts. Indoor climate-controlled storage runs $100-$250/month, outdoor covered is $75-$150/month, and open lot parking is $50-$100/month.
Do I need a Power of Attorney for vehicle storage during deployment?
Yes, a Power of Attorney (POA) is strongly recommended. A specific or limited POA allows a trusted person to access your vehicle, make payments, handle insurance claims, or retrieve the vehicle in an emergency. Get the POA notarized at your base legal office (JAG) before deployment - it is a free service.
Can I store my car on base during deployment?
Some bases offer vehicle storage through the Auto Skills Center or MWR facilities, typically for free or at reduced rates ($25-$50/month). Availability varies widely by installation and is often first-come, first-served. Check with your base transportation office or MWR at least 60 days before deployment to reserve a spot.
What should I do with my car insurance during deployment?
Keep comprehensive coverage (theft, fire, weather) and drop collision and liability to save 40-60% on premiums. Notify your insurer about the deployment - many military-friendly insurers like USAA and Armed Forces Insurance offer deployment discounts or suspended coverage options. Never cancel insurance entirely as gaps in coverage raise future premiums.