Military Moves — A Guide: 2025 Edition

Military families often face the challenge of relocating every 2–3 years due to Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. Understanding the available moving options and resources is crucial for a smooth transition. Whether you opt for a government-arranged move or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), uShip offers tools and services to assist you every step of the way.

Understanding Military Moves

Types of Moves:

• Government-Arranged Move: The military coordinates and pays for the move, handling logistics through approved Transportation Service Providers (TSPs).
• Personally Procured Move (PPM): Formerly known as DITY, this option allows service members to manage their own move, with potential reimbursement up to 100% of the government’s cost.

Key Agencies

• Transportation Office (TO)/Personal Property Shipping Office (PPSO): Your primary point of contact for move planning and support.
• Defense Personal Property Program (DP3): Oversees policies and procedures for military relocations.
• Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC): Manages contracted moving companies.
• Joint Personal Property Shipping Office (JPPSO): Coordinates moves across service branches.
• Global Household Goods Contract (GHC): The new system replacing DPS, streamlining the moving process for military families.

Planning Your Move

Timeline:

• 3–6 Months Out: Begin planning, especially if moving during peak season (May–August)
• 2–3 Months Out: Schedule your move through the appropriate channels.
• 4–6 Weeks Out: Conduct a pre-move inventory and start decluttering.
• 1–2 Weeks Out: Prepare your home for packers and finalize travel arrangements.

Documentation:

• Official orders and any amendments.
• Valid IDs for all adults.
• Inventory of high-value items.
• For overseas moves: passports, visas, and customs forms.

Utilizing uShip for Military Moves

uShip connects military families with a network of feedback-rated carriers, allowing you to:

• Compare quotes from professional movers.
• Read reviews and carrier profiles.
• Book trusted transporters for your move.
• For PPMs, uShip offers tools to help you manage your move efficiently and cost-effectively.

Military Discounts and ID.me Verification

uShip has partnered with ID.me to offer exclusive discounts to military members:

• Waived service fees for your first shipment within 30 days of ID.me verification.
• Access to special promotions and discounts from carriers.
• To get verified, visit the uShip ID.me verification page.

Additional Resources for Military Moves

• How to Save on PCS Moves
• PPM Moves
• How to Ace a PPM Move
• PCS Orders: Leave it to the Pros and Save
• 5 Things to do When You Receive Your PCS Orders