Complete a Navy Move

Planning for a Navy move

When you’re in the Navy, a PCS (permanent change of station) is the start of moving to a new base. Next is deciding if you want to let the government handle your move — at their convenience — or if you’d rather do a PPM (personally procured move) to have more control and possibly extra money in your pocket as you get settled. Many sailors choose a PPM (formerly called a DITY or do-it-yourself move) since the government will reimburse 100 percent of what they would have spent to arrange a full-service move. 

But is planning a PPM, where you do it yourself, difficult? It doesn’t have to be, especially with a company like U-Pack®. We’re a self-moving service with over 25 years of experience in long-distance relocation, including military moves. We’ll take care of transporting your things so you can travel to your new duty station comfortably with your family and put a little money back in your pocket! 

Navy PPM checklist 

Whether you’ve done a PPM before or this is your first move, it’s good to have a guide to stay on track. Here’s what you need to do after you receive your PCS orders. The Navy won’t start your reimbursement process unless you have orders with household goods (HHG) shipping entitlement and Line of Accounting.  

Step 1: Request approval for a Navy PPM 

Sign in or create a military travel reimbursement account at my.move.mil to update your Defense Personal Property System (DPS) profile. You’ll need to upload a copy of your PCS orders and fill out these two forms: 

• DD Form 2278 (Application for DITY Move and Counseling Checklist) 
• NPPSC Travel EFT-Form7000/1 (for electronic funds transfer of your reimbursement) 

Step 2: Schedule an appointment with your Personal Property Office (PPO)

At the appointment, you can confirm PPM approval and discuss any additional required forms and the procedure for an advanced payment if needed.

Step 3: Book your move  

After your PPM is approved, it’s time to book your movers. Make sure to mention upfront that you’ll need certified weight tickets — without these, you won’t be reimbursed. Also, create a folder to keep all moving-related receipts and signed contracts, and keep it in a safe place. You’ll need this for reimbursement as well.  

Step 4: Make personal travel arrangements  

Once your movers are scheduled, make your arrangements for personal travel, including airfare, car rentals or hotels. Don’t forget to put receipts for these things in your document folder — you’ll want easy access at the end of your move when they’re needed for reimbursement.  

Step 5: Submit final documents 

Along with your DD Form 1351-2 (Travel Voucher or Subvoucher), you must submit all required documentation and receipts to the PPO. Confirm time limits for submitting paperwork with your PPO. 

Check out U-Pack’s printable PCS checklist. 

Ready for your Navy PCS move? Get your U-Pack quote today 

U-Pack has locations in all 50 states, and we’re well-equipped to help sailors and their families relocate. You can get a free, no-obligation quote online or call us at 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. Use code DITY10 to save $100 on your move, and don’t forget to request weight tickets when you make your reservation.  

If you have questions about making a NAVY move with U-Pack, let us know in the comments. We’re happy to help! Thank you for your service!