Does the military pay for movers?

Yes, the military provides comprehensive support for relocations, including covering the costs of professional moving services. Dislocation allowances are given to partially reimburse service members for household moving expenses during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). Additionally, military sponsors offer personal experience and guidance to help service members settle into their new installation seamlessly.

Serving in the military often requires frequent relocations, sometimes across the country or even across the globe. Permanent Change of Station (PCS), Dislocation Allowance (DLA), and Personally Procured Move (PPM) are integral components of these relocations. These benefits are designed to ease the financial burden and logistical stress associated with frequent moves. They provide extensive support service systems to military personnel and their families during such transitions.

The Basics of Permanent Change of Station (PCS)

PCS is a constant in military life. It involves moving a military member's household to a new military location after receiving official orders. This process follows US Department of Defense regulations. It can happen in the CONUS or OCONUS, including overseas posts.

Military personnel often PCS every two to three years. PCS moves are complicated and require meticulous planning and organization. They handle housing, shipping, vehicles, belongings, and even pets. PCSing can be stressful, but knowing the basics and entitlements can help.

Unpacking the Entitlements under DITY/PPM Moves

Personal Procured Move, or Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move, is a military relocation benefit for service members. DITY/PPM moves to encourage service members to move their belongings themselves and offer a profit if they do so economically. This benefit gives members transition flexibility and financial gain.

The entitlement reimbursement under a DITY/PPM move covers 95% of the government's cost to move the same goods. Service members with dependents and rank receive weight allowances. Additionally, packing materials, moving equipment rental, vehicle fuel, and labor assistance are eligible expenses. Members must save all movers' receipts for reimbursement claims to receive these benefits. Despite the paperwork and process, proper guidance and support can make military relocation easier and more profitable.

Hiring Professional Moving Services: What the Military Covers

For military relocations, the U.S. military provides comprehensive support, including professional moving services. Know that these provisions aren't a 'one-size-fits-all,' but tailored to individual moves. The military's willingness to pay for professional movers brings great relief to families moving across states or nations.

When restating domestically or internationally, the military covers a large portion, if not all, of the costs of professional moving services to reduce tension. It includes boxing, packing, and shipping personal items. In addition, the military's personal property shipping office offers extensive relocation advice. Service members can make confident relocation decisions in murky waters. Understanding these provisions is essential to using resources effectively during mandatory military relocation.