{"id":21686,"date":"2025-04-08T15:46:17","date_gmt":"2025-04-08T15:46:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/?p=21686"},"modified":"2025-09-02T20:25:38","modified_gmt":"2025-09-02T20:25:38","slug":"military-household-goods-shipping","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/tips\/military-household-goods-shipping\/","title":{"rendered":"A Complete Guide to Military Household Goods Shipping"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong><em>Quick announcement: uShip has partnered with Lifetime&#8217;s &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/militarymakeover.tv\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Military Makeover<\/a>&#8221; for the August 29th episode. Be sure to check it out!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Military families <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mfan.org\/topic\/moving-permanent-change-of-station\/effects-of-moving-on-military-families\/#:~:text=Military%20families%20move%2C%20on%20average,It%20is%20a%20substantial%20setback.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">relocate<\/a> every 2\u20133 years, making household goods shipping a critical yet complex part of service life. These frequent moves affect everything from logistics to family stability, requiring a solid understanding of military moving procedures.<\/p>\n<p>The system has evolved with technology and policy changes, but it still presents unique challenges\u2014from weight allowances to coordinating cross-country or international moves. Service members must navigate a maze of acronyms, systems, and regulations.<\/p>\n<p>Families can choose between government-arranged shipping or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY), which offers more control and financial flexibility.<\/p>\n<p>Note: The Global Household Goods Contract (GHC) was canceled in 2025 following performance issues. Moves are now processed through the legacy DPS system. Service members should contact their TO for base-specific guidance.<\/p>\n<p>At uShip, we make it easier for military families to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uship.com\/household\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">find competitive rates<\/a> from professional movers nationwide, so you can focus more on the journey and less on the stress.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding Military Household Goods Shipping<\/h2>\n<p>Military household goods shipping refers to moving personal belongings during an official relocation, whether that\u2019s a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), separation from service, retirement, or other approved transfers. This includes furniture, clothing, appliances, and other essentials needed to re-establish a home.<\/p>\n<p>Official orders from the Department of Defense (DoD) are required. Active-duty service members with PCS orders, certain reservists, eligible retirees, and some DoD civilian employees (especially those going overseas) all qualify for government-assisted shipping.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Agencies That Manage Military Moves<\/h2>\n<p>Several organizations help facilitate military moves:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Transportation Office (TO)<\/strong> or <strong>Personal Property Shipping Office (PPSO)<\/strong>: Your go-to for local move planning and support.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ustranscom.mil\/dp3\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Defense Personal Property Program<\/a> (DP3)<\/strong>: Sets policy and structure for military relocations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC)<\/strong>: Oversees contracted moving companies.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Joint Personal Property Shipping Office (JPPSO)<\/strong>: Coordinates moves across service branches.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Defense Personal Property System (DPS)<\/strong>: Online portal for move paperwork and logistics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of Military Moves and Entitlements<\/h2>\n<p>Military shipping options include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Government-arranged household goods (HHG) shipping<\/strong>: Movers are assigned by the government and handle the full service.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Personally Procured Move (PPM)<\/strong>: You arrange and execute your own move (<em>with potential reimbursement up to 130% of government cost through 9\/25<\/em>). Many military families use uShip to compare rates and hire trusted carriers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Unaccompanied baggage shipments<\/strong>: Smaller, faster shipments of essentials\u2014commonly used for overseas assignments.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Storage in transit (SIT)<\/strong>: Short-term storage during a move.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Non-temporary storage (NTS)<\/strong>: Long-term storage for items not needed at the new station.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Military Household Goods Shipping Process<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-21679 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/military-moves-filler.png\" alt=\"military family moving boxes, getting ready for military household goods shipping\" width=\"790\" height=\"350\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/military-moves-filler.png 790w, https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/military-moves-filler-300x133.png 300w, https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/military-moves-filler-768x340.png 768w, https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/military-moves-filler-150x66.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 790px) 100vw, 790px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Start planning your move 3\u20136 months out. As soon as you receive orders, schedule a counseling session with your installation\u2019s Transportation Office\u2014especially if you\u2019re moving during peak season (May\u2013August).<\/p>\n<p>Your timeline should include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>3\u20134 months out<\/strong>: Secure housing at your new duty station.<\/li>\n<li><strong>2\u20133 months out<\/strong>: Schedule your move in DPS.<\/li>\n<li><strong>4\u20136 weeks out<\/strong>: Conduct a pre-move inventory.<\/li>\n<li><strong>1\u20132 weeks out<\/strong>: Prep your home for packers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step-by-Step: How to Arrange Your Shipping<\/h2>\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Receive official orders<\/strong><br \/>Register on the DPS portal (via Move.mil).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Complete counseling<\/strong><br \/>Self-counsel or meet with your local TO\/PPSO.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Submit your shipping application<\/strong><br \/>Include destination, dates, estimated weight, and any specialty items.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Get assigned a Transportation Service Provider (TSP)<\/strong><br \/>Assigned based on availability and past performance.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pre-move survey<\/strong><br \/>The TSP will assess your home and plan logistics.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Documentation Tips<\/h2>\n<p>Accurate, complete documentation smooths the process and protects your belongings. Key items include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Official orders (+ amendments if applicable)<\/li>\n<li>Valid ID for all adults<\/li>\n<li>Inventory of high-value items<\/li>\n<li>For overseas moves: passports, visas, and customs forms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Take photos of valuable items, document serial numbers, and save digital copies of all records in an easily accessible folder.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Prepping Your Military Household Goods for Shipping<\/h2>\n<p>Declutter before movers arrive\u2014weight limits make this a smart time to lighten the load. Prep with:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Room-by-room inventory<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Labels matching your new floor plan<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Essential \u201cfirst day\u201d boxes<\/strong> for each family member<\/li>\n<li><strong>Secure items that movers shouldn\u2019t pack<\/strong> (important docs, meds, valuables)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Consider childcare arrangements for packing days to stay focused.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Working with Movers<\/h2>\n<p>Clear communication goes a long way. Be available during packing and loading to guide movers, point out fragile items, and flag anything that shouldn\u2019t be packed.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Provide basic amenities like restroom access and water<\/li>\n<li>Label items by category or destination room<\/li>\n<li>Review inventory sheets carefully before signing<\/li>\n<li>Request extra protection for delicate pieces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>At uShip, we work with feedback-rated carriers so you can choose movers that care about quality and professionalism.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Managing Family Needs in Transition<\/h2>\n<p>Military moves disrupt routines. To ease the shift:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep comfort items, devices, and bedding accessible<\/li>\n<li>Use a \u201cmoving binder\u201d for documents, travel plans, and contact lists<\/li>\n<li>Research temporary housing and essential services near your new base<\/li>\n<li>Plan ahead for pets, including boarding if needed on moving day<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">People Also Ask (FAQs)<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I start the military moving process?<\/h3>\n<p>Once you get your orders, log into DPS and complete self-counseling or meet with your Transportation Office. After that, submit your move application with preferred dates and shipment details.<\/p>\n<p>For extra help, <strong>Military OneSource<\/strong> provides 24\/7 relocation support by phone and online.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What items can\u2019t be shipped?<\/h3>\n<p>Prohibited items include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hazardous materials (aerosols, propane tanks, paint)<\/li>\n<li>Perishables (food, plants)<\/li>\n<li>High-value or irreplaceable items (cash, legal documents, jewelry)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Some international moves have specific restrictions\u2014always check with your TO.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How are weight limits determined?<\/h3>\n<p>They\u2019re based on rank and dependency status:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Junior enlisted without dependents: ~5,000 lbs.<\/li>\n<li>Senior officers with dependents: up to 18,000+ lbs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Exceeding your weight limit means out-of-pocket costs, so weigh carefully\u2014use calculators from Military OneSource or your TO.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s the timeline for delivery?<\/h3>\n<p>For domestic moves:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Packing: 1\u20133 days<\/li>\n<li>Transit: 5\u201315 days<\/li>\n<li>Delivery scheduling: 2\u20137 days<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For overseas moves:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Transit: 2\u20133 months (due to customs and logistics)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Peak season may slow things down. Unaccompanied baggage can fill gaps.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I file for damaged items?<\/h3>\n<p>Document any damage on the delivery inventory. Use DPS to file a claim:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Within <strong>75 days<\/strong> for full value<\/li>\n<li>Up to <strong>9 months<\/strong> for depreciated value<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Include photos, inventory details, and receipts. If needed, escalate to your Military Claims Office.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I track my shipment?<\/h3>\n<p>Track progress via <strong>DPS<\/strong> and directly through your TSP. International shipments include air\/ocean tracking numbers.<\/p>\n<p>Use apps like Move.mil for mobile alerts and updates.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Do If Things Go Sideways<\/h2>\n<p>If delays occur, contact your TSP. Keep records of every conversation. If needed, escalate to your Transportation Office or the 24\/7 DPS helpline.<\/p>\n<p>You may be eligible for:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Extended lodging expenses<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Essential item reimbursements<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Command support for hardship scenarios<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Government vs. PPM: Which Move Is Right for You?<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Government-Arranged Moves<\/h3>\n<p>Pros:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No lifting or logistics stress<\/li>\n<li>Full Replacement Value protection<\/li>\n<li>No upfront costs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Cons:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Less control over schedules and packing quality<\/li>\n<li>Required availability during assigned dates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Personally Procured Moves (PPM)<\/h3>\n<p>Pros:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full control over timing, packing, and transportation<\/li>\n<li>Potential profit (often 20\u201330%) if done efficiently<\/li>\n<li>Ideal for families with heirlooms or privacy concerns<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Cons:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Requires planning, physical effort, and paperwork<\/li>\n<li>Upfront payment before reimbursement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Many families use <strong>a hybrid approach<\/strong>, combining a PPM for flexibility with government shipping for bulk items.<\/p>\n<p>With uShip, you can compare quotes, read carrier reviews, and book trusted transporters on your own terms\u2014making PPMs more accessible and less overwhelming.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n<p>Military moves are demanding, but with the right preparation, you can minimize stress. Start early, document everything, and use available tools to stay organized.<\/p>\n<p>Let technology and community support carry some of the load\u2014apps, moving binders, and peer groups are your best allies. And remember: challenges are part of the journey, but you don\u2019t have to face them alone.<\/p>\n<p>With resources like uShip, finding a professional mover at a fair rate is easier than ever\u2014so you can focus on what matters most: getting settled and moving forward.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Resources for Military Household Goods Shipping<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Military OneSource:<\/strong> 24\/7 relocation support (800-342-9647)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Plan My Move:<\/strong> Create a custom calendar for your move<\/li>\n<li><strong>uShip:<\/strong> Compare carrier quotes, read reviews, and ship with confidence<\/li>\n<li><strong>Military Family Advisory Network:<\/strong> Read mover reviews from other military families<\/li>\n<li><strong>Social groups and forums:<\/strong> Get real-time advice from others in the PCS process<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TL;DR<\/h3>\n<p>Military shipping is more than packing boxes\u2014it\u2019s about managing timelines, costs, and family needs. Start early, document thoroughly, and choose the move option that fits your life.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Key Takeaways:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Start prepping 3\u20136 months ahead, especially for peak season<\/li>\n<li>Government and PPM moves each have benefits\u2014hybrids work too<\/li>\n<li>Weight limits and timing vary by rank and destination<\/li>\n<li>Track shipments and file any damage claims promptly<\/li>\n<li>Use uShip to find vetted, affordable pros for your PPM move<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Quick announcement: uShip has partnered with Lifetime&#8217;s &#8220;Military Makeover&#8221; for the August 29th episode. Be sure to check it out! Military families relocate every 2\u20133 years, making household goods shipping a critical yet complex part of service life. These frequent moves affect everything from logistics to family stability, requiring a solid understanding of military moving&#8230;<a class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/tips\/military-household-goods-shipping\/\"> Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":21677,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-21686","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tips"],"acf":{"blog_post_content":[{"acf_fc_layout":"blog_post_entry_footer","blog_post_entry_footer_cta":[{"blog_post_entry_footer_cta_url":"https:\/\/www.uship.com\/household\/","blog_post_entry_footer_cta_text":"Get Shipping Quotes","blog_post_entry_footer_onclick":""}]}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21686","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21686"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21686\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21677"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21686"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21686"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ushipblogsubd.wpengine.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21686"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}