If you're a member of our armed forces, frequently moving can become part of the job. When you answer the call of duty and must complete a local, long-distance, or international move, know that you have resources available to help you with the process. The government can take care of your relocation details, or you can choose to take control of your move with a do-it-yourself (DITY) or personally procured move (PPM). Learn how to complete a military PPM move with these tips!
Part 1: Getting Ready for the Move
Apply
When deciding to complete a PPM or DITY move, you must submit an application to do so. If you make a Permanent Change of Station, Temporary Duty, Temporary Additional Duty type of move, or are ordered to move to or from government quarters, you could be eligible to participate in this program. Service members are typically required to attend counseling before performing a move, so it is important to apply ahead of time, so it doesn't put you behind schedule.
Receipts
Make sure to keep track of the receipts of costs incurred throughout your cross-country move. Doing this is important so that you have supporting documentation for reimbursement. An excellent way to make sure all of your receipts and paperwork are accounted for is to create a separate folder to hold only these items.
Reserve Early
Moving cross-country is especially popular during the summer (May-August), so make sure you plan accordingly if this is when you are scheduled to move. Moving during this time will require you to make your reservations early to guarantee you get your preferred dates.
Part 2: Budgeting
Savings
Know your cost savings! The government will reimburse you for 95% of what it would have cost them to move you if you properly file a claim. You will even receive the difference if the cost of your move falls below the 95% government allowance. Be sure to plan out all of your moving expenses, so you know if it is worth planning the move yourself. Also, make sure that you receive your official orders before you move, to ensure that you will be reimbursed.
Boxes
Moving is a very common occurrence as a member of our armed forces. As such, you can usually find spare boxes around the base from people who have recently moved in. Take advantage of this cost saver.
Stick to Your Budget
Create a detailed budget of all of your expenses and try to stick to it closely. Be sure to include items such as the moving services, packing supplies and any travel expenses you may need to cover. Keeping track of these costs will help you to maximize your reimbursement fully.
Discounts
Take some time to look into discounts that each service company may provide - chances are they offer a military discount. At 1-800-PACK-RAT we offer a 10% discount for all active and retired military personnel. Learn more at our Military Moving page.
Part 3: Resources and Personnel
Know Your Contact
Your point of contact for questions concerning your move will be your Transportation Office or Personal Property Shipping Office. Make sure you take advantage of this contact to ask questions about your relocation plan and learn more about your moving options.
Resources
Move.mil can be an excellent resource to register for a DPS account and consult informational pamphlets. The brochures can help explain responsibilities you have regarding your belongings and more in-depth information on the policies regarding weight allowances.
PPM Move
Although most people think that a PPM move means that you'll be in charge of doing all the work yourself, with 1-800-PACK-RAT you will be far from alone throughout this process. We have representatives available that will help you enjoy a smooth cross-country move.
If you liked our tips on how to plan a PPM move, download our helpful Plan a PPM Move how-to guide PDF or check out our other Moving How-To Guides.