Moving can be a stressful experience, especially for military families who are often required to relocate every few years. A personally procured move (PPM), also known as a do-it-yourself move, can offer a more flexible and cost-effective option for families during a permanent change of station (PCS) move. However, a successful PPM requires careful planning and execution. This article aims to provide tips and guidance for military families or individuals who are preparing for a PPM move.
The target audience for this article includes military families or individuals who are looking for a stress-free and efficient moving solution, particularly those who are considering a PPM. The focus of this article is on providing helpful information and tips to ensure a smooth and successful move.
In the following sections, we will explore what a PPM is, the benefits and drawbacks of choosing a PPM, and how to prepare for and execute a successful PPM move. We will also cover post-move considerations, such as property management and health care, and provide resources for veterans to use their VA home loan benefits. Finally, we will discuss mental health considerations and resources for military families dealing with the stress of a move. By the end of this article, readers should feel better equipped to plan and execute their own successful PPM move.
What is a PPM?
A personally procured move (PPM), also known as a do-it-yourself move or a personally procured move (PPM), is a type of military move that allows service members and their families to take more control over their relocation process. Unlike traditional military moves, where the military arranges for the transportation of household goods and other items, a PPM allows families to procure their own moving truck, pack and load their own items, and transport them to their new duty station.
One of the biggest benefits of a PPM is the flexibility it offers. Families can choose the timing and logistics of their move, and may be able to save money by finding their own transportation and handling the packing and loading themselves. Additionally, a PPM can offer more control over the condition and care of household goods during the move process.
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. PPM moves require significant planning and preparation, and families must ensure they have the necessary equipment and resources to handle the move themselves. Additionally, families must carefully consider the cost-benefit analysis of a PPM, including the costs of renting a moving truck and the potential risks of handling their own household goods.
Despite these considerations, many military families choose a PPM over traditional moves. According to a 2019 survey by the Department of Defense, approximately 31% of military families chose a PPM for their most recent move.
Preparing for a PPM
Planning and preparation are critical for a successful PPM move. By starting early and completing necessary tasks in advance, families can ensure a smoother and more efficient move. Here are some important steps to take when preparing for a PPM:
- Obtain a DD Form 1351-2: This form is necessary to document expenses incurred during a PPM move, including transportation, lodging, and meals. It is important to keep all receipts and documentation for these expenses.
- Obtain counseling from the transportation office: Military families are required to attend counseling before a PPM move, which provides important information about the move process and necessary paperwork.
- Weigh household goods: Accurately weighing household goods is critical for a PPM move, as overweight items can result in costly penalties. Families should use certified scales and keep all weight tickets for documentation.
- Procure a moving truck if necessary: Families who do not have access to a personal vehicle or who are transporting large items may need to rent a moving truck. It is important to research options and make reservations in advance to ensure availability.
In addition to these important tasks, families can also take steps to save money and earn extra cash during a PPM move. For example, families can sell unwanted items or hold a garage sale to earn extra cash, or use military discounts for moving truck rentals and other expenses. It is also important to carefully consider the costs and benefits of a PPM move, including the potential for savings on transportation and the potential risks of handling household goods independently.
By following these steps and carefully planning for a PPM move, military families can ensure a smoother and more efficient relocation process.
Executing a PPM
Once families have completed the necessary preparations, it’s time to execute the PPM move. Effective packing, weighing, and logistics are key to ensuring a successful move. Here are some tips for executing a PPM:
Packing and Labeling Household Goods:
Proper packing and labeling of household goods is essential for a successful PPM move. Here are some tips to ensure that items are packed safely and efficiently:
- Use sturdy boxes and packing materials: Use high-quality boxes and packing materials to protect fragile items during transport. Bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam padding are all effective materials.
- Label boxes clearly: Label boxes with the contents and room location to make unpacking easier. Use color coding or numbering systems to keep track of boxes.
- Secure fragile items: Use extra padding and tape to secure fragile items, such as dishes and glassware. Pack them tightly to prevent movement during transport.
Weighing Your Vehicle:
Accurately weighing the vehicle is critical to avoiding overweight penalties. Here are some tips to ensure an accurate weigh-in:
- Weigh the vehicle empty: Weigh the vehicle before loading any items to obtain an accurate empty weight.
- Weigh the vehicle fully loaded: After packing all items, weigh the vehicle again to obtain the full weight.
- Subtract the empty weight from the full weight: The difference between the empty and full weights is the weight of the items being transported.
Logistics:
Proper documentation and following authorized expenses are critical for a successful PPM move. Here are some tips to ensure proper logistics:
- Keep all receipts: Keep all receipts and documentation for expenses incurred during the move. These may include transportation, lodging, and meals.
- Follow authorized expenses: Only authorized expenses will be reimbursed, so it is important to follow guidelines provided during counseling.
- Keep copies of all documentation: Keep copies of all paperwork and receipts in case of any disputes or discrepancies.
By following these tips and taking the necessary precautions, families can execute a successful PPM move and enjoy a smoother and more efficient relocation process.
Post-Move Considerations
After completing a PPM move, there are several important post-move considerations that military families should keep in mind. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Property Management and Health Care:
After moving to a new location, it’s important to manage property and secure adequate health care. Here are some tips for handling these post-move considerations:
- Update property management: Inform the property management team of any maintenance or repairs needed in the new home.
- Secure health care: Enroll in TRICARE and register with a primary care provider as soon as possible.
Using VA Home Loan Benefits:
Veterans have access to VA home loan benefits that can help them purchase or refinance a home. Here are some resources for using VA home loan benefits:
- VA Home Loans: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers home loan benefits to eligible veterans. This program provides a range of options, including purchase loans, cash-out refinance loans, and interest rate reduction refinance loans.
- Veterans United Home Loans: Veterans United Home Loans is a private lender that specializes in VA home loans. They offer online tools to help veterans prequalify for a loan and find a home.
Building a Savings Plan and Taking Advantage of Discounts:
Building a savings plan and taking advantage of military discounts can help military families save money and build financial stability. Here are some tips for building a savings plan and taking advantage of discounts:
- Thrift Savings Plan: The Thrift Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan for federal employees, including members of the military. It offers several investment options and tax benefits.
- Military Discounts: Many retailers, restaurants, and other businesses offer military discounts. Be sure to ask about discounts when shopping or dining out.
Mental Health Considerations:
Moving can be a stressful and emotional experience, and it’s important to prioritize mental health during and after a move. Here are some mental health considerations and resources for military families:
- Counseling Checklist: Military OneSource offers a counseling checklist that includes resources for stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Mental Health Resources: The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides resources and support for mental health conditions.
By focusing on these post-move considerations, military families can transition smoothly into their new location and build a stable, healthy life for themselves and their families.
Conclusion
In conclusion, executing a personally procured move (PPM) can be a daunting task for military families, but with proper planning and execution, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience. We have discussed the importance of early planning and preparation, effective packing and labeling techniques, and navigating the logistics of a PPM. We also highlighted the importance of post-move considerations such as property management, health care, and mental health resources.
Remember to take advantage of resources available to military families, such as VA home loan benefits and military discounts. Building a savings plan can also help alleviate the financial burden of a move.
We encourage military families to plan their PPM moves well, and to use the resources provided by the Department of Defense and other organizations. By taking the time to properly plan and execute their moves, military families can ensure a smooth transition to their new duty station.
