•If it is necessary to remove the catalytic converter (because gas at post is leaded) you can obtain an EPA Waiver form. This form, available from Transportation, authorizes the removal of the converter no sooner than seven days before the car's pick-up for delivery to the DA. In order to obtain a copy of the waiver, the employee must present a copy of the completed JF-49. This is a controlled form and the employee has to sign for it. Please note that removing the converter damages some cars.
TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION - Suite 5100 SA-3; 2121 Virginia Ave.
Telephone: (202) 663-0891/0892; (800) 424-2947 (only from beyond DC area)
CONDITION OF VEHICLE
You are responsible for insuring that your vehicle is in a serviceable and safe operating condition prior to shipment. We recommend that you have the vehicle serviced, i.e., lubricated, washed, and radiator checked and filled with an antifreeze solution. To reduce pilferage, remove detachable items such as hubcaps, cigarette lighters, radio antennas, etc. Do not place household or personal effects in the vehicle. Only those items that ordinarily accompany a vehicle, e.g., spare tire and tools necessary for changing the tire, should be stowed in the vehicle. Mirrors and wipers must remain on the vehicle and ignition, trunk, and gasoline-cap keys must accompany it.
In accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 49, vehicles must be inspected for fuel leaks and faults in the electrical system prior to turning the vehicles over for shipment. In addition, the fuel tank of the vehicle shall not be more than one-fourth (1/4) full. (14 FAM 615.2-b(3))
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS
Limitations on Type and Size of Vehicles
Vehicles that may be transported include passenger automobiles, station wagons, and certain small trucks or similar vehicles that may be used primarily for personal transportation. Transportation is not authorized for trailers, airplanes, or any vehicle intended for commercial use.
Transportation at U.S. Government expense is limited to vehicles having a gross size for shipping purposes of not more than 15 measurement tons (16.8 cubic meters/600 cubic feet). An employee who ships a larger vehicle which otherwise qualifies for shipment at U.S. Government expense must pay all costs which result from the excess size of the vehicle. (14 FAM 615.8)
To begin the process of shipping your POV, contact your Transportation Counselor in the Division of Travel and Transportation. Plan to fax or mail him/her your documentation at least two weeks before you want your car shipped. You and the Transportation Counselor will agree on a shipping date and make final arrangements for the POV to be picked up by the "drive-away" firm.
If the shipping date selected falls after your departure, you must provide your Transportation Counselor with the name, address, and telephone number of the person having custody of the car (See Item #4 on the form.)
The Department cannot pay for the storage of a vehicle. If it becomes necessary to store your vehicle, you pay.
If you change your plans concerning pickup point or the delivery date of the car, the Despatch Agent and the driveaway firm must be notified of the change at once. You are responsible for all expenses incurred for a second pickup of your car if you fail to provide this information.
Employees should refer to the owners manual to find the location on their vehicle that provides the engine capacity and engine number.
EXPLANATION OF ITEM 15, DELIVERY ARRANGEMENTS
A.Vehicle Will Be Driven to Driveaway Service by Traveler
Indicate the date you will be able to deliver the vehicle to the driveaway service. The U.S. Despatch Agent arranges to provide the necessary papers and delivery instructions when you telephone.
B.Vehicle Will Be Shipped From the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area
Indicate date vehicle will be available for shipment. After completing procedures set forth above, final arrangements for pickup should be made directly with driveaway service.
C.Vehicle Will Be Shipped From a Point Outside the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area (Except new vehicle shipped from factory, see D, below.) Indicate the date vehicle will be available for shipment. The U.S. Despatch Agent will provide the documents and indicate which carrier to contact.
D.Vehicle Will Be Shipped From Factory
Instruct the manufacturer to notify the U.S. Despatch Agent when the vehicle is available for shipment. Upon receipt of this information the U.S. Despatch Agent will furnish the manufacturer with shipping instructions and arrange shipment to your post.
INSURANCE
Because of the limited loss and/or damage liability ($500 per unit) provided by steamship carriers, we recommend that employees obtain automobile marine insurance. However, the Government does not pay insurance premium costs.
