Optimize Your Military Move: HHG and PPM (DITY) Explained

When the time comes for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), deciding how to transport your belongings is a crucial step. With multiple options available, understanding the nuances of each can help streamline your move.

Household Goods Movement (HHG) Move

An HHG move involves a government-furnished moving company handling the packing and transportation of your items. This type of move, applicable for both CONUS and OCONUS PCS, eases the burden by assigning the heavy lifting to the military assigned movers.

Positives of HHG Moves:

• Convenience: Military assigned movers handle the packing, loading, transportation, and unloading of your items, making household goods movement hassle-free.
• Less Physical Strain: You avoid the physical effort involved in moving heavy items yourself during your military move.
• Time-Saving: With professionals managing the move, you can focus on other aspects of your PCS help.

Negatives of HHG Moves:

• Limited Control: You have less control over how your items are packed and handled by household goods moving companies.
• Potential Delays: Scheduling and industry demand can affect the timing of your military move.
• Possible Damage: While professionals handle your goods, there's still a risk of damage during transit. Military assigned movers are notorious for handling household goods poorly. Be prepared with pictures and a detailed inventory list of your belongings.

Personally Procured Move (PPM)

A PPM, or DITY move, offers the flexibility to manage your relocation. Whether you hire a commercial mover, use rental trucks, or even opt for portable storage containers, this option puts you in control. You can choose to drive a rental truck, use a trailer, or even your own vehicle for smaller loads. This approach is particularly valuable for irreplaceable items or essentials needed upon arrival. PPM also includes a financial incentive based on the weight transported, not exceeding your authorized allowance. For military families considering a PPM, understanding the intricacies of a military move is crucial for a smooth process.

Positives of a PPM:

• Control: You have complete control over how your items are packed, handled, and transported during your household goods movement.
• Flexibility: You can choose your moving schedule and method, whether it's using rental trucks, commercial movers, or your own vehicle.
• Financial Incentive: You receive reimbursement based on the weight of the items you move, which can result in additional savings if you manage your military move efficiently.
• Customization: Allows you to prioritize and manage irreplaceable or essential items personally during your PPM.

Negatives of a PPM:

• Physical Labor: You are responsible for the physical effort of packing, loading, and unloading your belongings in a DITY move. Unless you hire movers or utilize commercial movers.
• Time-Consuming: Organizing and executing the move yourself can be time-consuming and require meticulous planning. Truevana is a great resource to reduce the burden of getting quotes and scheduling your move.
• Potential for Higher Costs: Without proper planning, costs for rental trucks, equipment, and other resources can add up during your military move and waiting for the military to reimburse for the weight move can be an undue hardship for some families.
• Logistical Challenges: Coordinating all aspects of the move, from obtaining weight tickets to ensuring compliance with military move requirements, can be complex.

Types of PPM Moves

Partial PPM Move: You move some of your goods, typically in your vehicle. Coordination with your service's transportation office is necessary to understand the specifics of this partial DITY move. This option provides partial PCS help by allowing you to manage essential items while relying on professional services for the rest.

Full PPM Move: You're in charge of the entire move, using rental trucks, commercial movers, or your vehicle. The process includes obtaining weight tickets and submitting them for reimbursement. This method offers complete control over your household goods movement, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer to oversee every aspect of their military move. Partnering with reliable military moving companies can enhance the experience, ensuring your belongings reach their destination safely and efficiently.

Truevana Supports Your Military Move

Truevana is dedicated to making your PCS process as seamless as possible. With our comprehensive services, including home buying, selling, renting, property management, and financing, we offer personalized support tailored to military families. Our veteran-owned and operated team understands the unique challenges of a military move, providing expert guidance and reliable solutions. Whether you're opting for a PPM (DITY) or an HHG move, Truevana ensures your household goods movement is handled with care and efficiency, giving you peace of mind during your transition.