Military moves can be complex, but the Personally Procured Move (PPM) option offers a unique alternative. At Southbay Moving Systems, we’ve helped countless service members navigate their PPM military moves.
This guide will break down the essentials of PPM, from understanding the basics to executing a successful move. We’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision about whether a PPM is right for you.
What Is a Personally Procured Move?
Definition and Control
A Personally Procured Move (PPM), previously called a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move, puts military personnel in charge of their relocation. Unlike standard military moves where the government contracts a moving company, PPMs allow service members to manage the entire process themselves.
The PPM Process
In a PPM, you pack, transport, and unpack your belongings. The government reimburses you up to 100% of what it would have cost them to move you. This system allows you to potentially profit if you spend less than the allocated amount.
Eligibility for PPM
PPMs are available to service members making a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), Temporary Duty (TDY) or Temporary Additional Duty (TAD) move. Each military branch may have specific requirements, so it’s essential to check with your transportation office for current information.
Advantages of Choosing PPM
- Timeline Control: PPMs offer complete flexibility in scheduling your move. This control proves invaluable when coordinating with work or school calendars.
- Financial Benefits: The PPM monetary allowance increased from 95% to 100% of the estimated cost the government would have paid a moving company.
- Reduced Risk: The Department of Defense found that claims for lost or damaged goods were 35% lower for PPMs compared to government-contracted moves.
Expert Support
While PPMs empower service members to take charge of their relocation, professional military movers (such as Southbay Moving Systems) can still provide valuable assistance. These experts offer services ranging from packing tips to equipment rental, helping to streamline your PPM process.
As you consider whether a PPM is right for you, it’s important to understand how to plan effectively. The next section will guide you through the essential steps of preparing for your Personally Procured Move.
How to Plan Your PPM Effectively
Estimating Your Household Goods Weight
An accurate estimate of your belongings’ weight forms the foundation of a successful Personally Procured Move (PPM). The Department of Defense offers a weight estimator tool, but a room-by-room inventory often yields more reliable results. Create a list of all items, including furniture, appliances, and boxed goods. For precision, weigh a few boxes of various sizes and use these as benchmarks for similar items.
A Government Accountability Office study revealed that service members who underestimated their household goods weight by more than 1,000 pounds faced significant out-of-pocket expenses. To avoid this pitfall, add a 10% buffer to your initial estimate.
Calculating Your Potential Reimbursement
Your PPM reimbursement equals 100% of the government’s cost to move your goods. This calculation requires your estimated weight and the distance of your move. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) provides a tool to determine your potential reimbursement.
Efficient management of your move can result in substantial savings. On average, service members who handle their moves effectively can retain between 20-30% of their reimbursement (a welcome financial boost during relocation).
Creating a Realistic Timeline
A well-structured timeline ensures a smooth PPM. Start your planning at least 90 days before your move date. This schedule allows time for essential tasks:
- Request your PPM (45-60 days pre-move)
- Book moving equipment (30-45 days in advance)
- Gather packing materials (2-3 weeks before packing)
- Pack non-essential items (1-2 weeks pre-move)
- Arrange help for moving day (2-3 weeks in advance)
Gathering Essential Documentation
Proper documentation paves the way for successful PPM reimbursement. Collect the following:
- DD Form 2278 (Application for Do It Yourself Move and Counseling Checklist)
- Orders authorizing your move
- Weight tickets (empty and full) for your vehicle
- Receipts for all moving-related expenses
- DD Form 1351-2 (Travel Voucher) for claim submission
A Military.com survey found that 22% of service members experienced reimbursement delays due to incomplete documentation. Create a dedicated folder for all your PPM paperwork and maintain digital copies as backups to avoid this issue.
Selecting a Moving Partner
While PPMs empower service members to manage their relocation, professional military movers can provide valuable assistance. These experts offer services ranging from packing advice to equipment rental, streamlining your PPM process. If you choose to work with a moving company, consider Southbay Moving Systems, Central California’s trusted moving expert with over 30 years of experience in handling military moves.
As you complete your PPM planning, the next step involves executing your move. The following section will provide practical tips and strategies to ensure a smooth relocation process, from packing your belongings to documenting your expenses.
How to Execute Your PPM Successfully
Secure Moving Equipment and Materials
To start your Personally Procured Move (PPM), obtain the necessary equipment and supplies. Rent a moving truck from a reputable company at least 30 days before your move date. Select a truck size based on your household goods weight estimate (a 26-foot truck typically accommodates a 3-4 bedroom home).
Purchase high-quality boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper for your move. Invest in sturdy materials to protect your belongings and prevent damage during transit.
Pack and Label Strategically
Start packing non-essential items at least two weeks before your move date. Use a room-by-room approach and pack similar items together. Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper.
Label each box clearly with its contents and destination room. Consider using a color-coding system to streamline the unpacking process.
Load and Transport Your Belongings
On moving day, load your truck strategically. Place heavy items at the bottom and distribute weight evenly. Use furniture pads to protect large items and fill gaps with smaller boxes to prevent shifting during transit.
If you drive the truck yourself, familiarize yourself with its dimensions and handling. Allow extra stopping distance and make wider turns when operating a large vehicle.
Document Expenses and Maintain Records
Keep meticulous records for PPM reimbursement. Save all receipts related to your move, including truck rental, packing supplies, and fuel costs. Take photos of your loaded truck and any high-value items for insurance purposes.
Obtain weight tickets for your vehicle when empty and fully loaded. The difference between these weights determines your reimbursement amount.
Consider Professional Assistance
While managing your own move offers flexibility and potential financial benefits, professional assistance can still provide value. If you need expert advice or support during your PPM, try reaching out to experienced military movers. For instance, Southbay Moving Systems (Central California’s trusted moving expert with over 30 years of experience) offers customized services for military relocations.
Final Thoughts
Personally Procured Moves (PPMs) offer military personnel control over their relocation process. Service members who manage their own moves can save money, protect their belongings, and enjoy greater flexibility in their moving timeline. PPMs require careful planning, organization, and attention to detail to succeed.
A successful PPM military move starts with early planning, a detailed inventory of belongings, and meticulous expense records. Quality packing materials and equipment protect items during transit. The installation’s transportation office can provide valuable advice for those with questions or concerns.
Professional assistance enhances the PPM experience. Southbay Moving Systems provides expert guidance and support for military relocations, drawing on decades of industry experience. Their team offers customized services to complement PPM efforts (ensuring a smooth transition to your new duty station).
