How to Complete a Navy Move

Moving while in the U.S. Navy

Serving in the Navy and moving go hand in hand. Receiving a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) order is a new adventure and gives you a decision to make — choosing a government or Personally Procured Move (PPM).

Let’s review the benefits of a PPM (formerly known as a DITY or do-it-yourself move) and how it can be better with a self-moving service like U-Pack®.

Why sailors choose a PPM

Many sailors opt for a PPM to have more control over the process. Another benefit is that the government will reimburse you 100 percent of the costs you would have incurred to arrange a full-service move, meaning you could make money if you spend less.

That’s where U-Pack comes in. We have nearly 30 years of experience in long-distance relocation, including military moves. We’ll transport your household goods (HHG) so you can travel to your new duty station comfortably with your family.

PPM checklist for a Navy Move

Whether you’ve done a PPM before or this is your first, having a guide is the best way to stay on track. Here’s what you need to do after you receive your PCS orders. The Navy will not initiate your reimbursement process unless you have orders with household goods (HHG) shipping entitlement and a 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, as well as the procedure for advanced payment if you qualify.

Step 3: Book your Navy PPM

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 store all moving-related receipts and signed contracts, and keep it in a secure location. You will also need this for reimbursement.

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.

Plan your Navy PCS move the easy way with U-Pack

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 by calling 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant or requesting one online. 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!