The day your Future Soldier ships to Basic Combat Training is one of the biggest milestones in their Army journey—and in yours. Whether you’re driving them to the hotel, waiting for a goodbye call, or seeing them off at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), shipping day is a powerful mix of pride, emotion, and uncertainty.
Understanding how the process works can help you prepare for what’s ahead, avoid surprises, and offer the steady support your Soldier needs most in that moment.
Shipping Day Often Starts the Night Before
Many Future Soldiers are asked to report to a local hotel the evening before shipping. This is coordinated by their recruiter and usually involves:
- A check-in window in the late afternoon or evening
- A short briefing and meal
- Lights out early to prepare for an early morning departure
Once they check in, your time with them may be limited—or over for the night. It varies by location and policy. Some families say goodbye at the hotel, while others choose to part ways earlier in the day.
The Morning of Shipping Day Moves Quickly
On shipping day, your Future Soldier will wake up early (often around 0400) and head to the MEPS facility. There, they’ll:
- Complete final paperwork
- Receive travel instructions
- Get a briefing about the day’s logistics
- Make a short scripted phone call to let you know they’ve arrived safely
This call may be quick and impersonal. That’s normal. Don’t expect a long conversation—it’s often just enough to say, “I’m here. I’m okay. I’ll talk to you soon.”
You Likely Won’t Know Their Travel Details in Real Time
Some Army Trainee’s ship by bus, others by plane. The Army books and coordinates their travel, and details aren’t always shared with families.
Here’s what to expect:
- You probably won’t know the exact flight or bus schedule
- They may be traveling alone or with other recruits
- Communication will likely go silent for several days once they arrive at their training location
This is part of the transition into full training mode. The lack of updates is hard—but expected.
Your Role Is to Keep the Goodbye Grounded and Encouraging
However and wherever you say goodbye, keep it steady:
- Tell them you’re proud
- Reassure them they’re ready
- Let them see your calm, even if you’re feeling emotional
Avoid overwhelming them with last-minute advice or worries. They’ll already be feeling the weight of the moment. What they need most is your quiet confidence.
Expect a Gap Before Their First Real Message
Once your Soldier arrives at Basic, there may be no contact for 7–10 days (or longer). The first communication is usually a letter with:
- Their mailing address
- A short “I made it” message
- Basic instructions for corresponding
This window of silence is one of the hardest parts for families—but it’s normal and temporary. Keep writing, stay busy, and trust the process.
Last Call
Shipping day is emotional, unpredictable, and unforgettable. It marks the end of civilian life—and the beginning of a new identity. Your Future Soldier will be feeling the weight of that shift. The best thing you can do? Stay steady, stay proud, and let them go with strength. This is their moment to step forward—and yours to cheer them on, even from a distance.
I will be back next week with another update for you. Stay strong, you got this!
SGM Kris Broadus, U.S. Army (Retired)
