What Is a Military-Approved Moving Company?

Moving can be a daunting task, especially when you are a member of the military. Relocation is common for military personnel, and it’s essential to have a reliable moving company that can help you relocate your belongings without any hassle. A military-approved moving company is a moving company that is approved by the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide relocation services to military personnel. 

Let’s discuss what a military-approved moving company is and why hiring one is essential.

What Is a Military-Approved Moving Company?

A military-approved moving company is a company that the DoD has vetted to provide moving services to military personnel. These companies have undergone a rigorous screening process to ensure they can provide high-quality moving services to military families. 

The DoD has a program called the Defense Personal Property Program (DP3) that oversees the entire moving process for military personnel. This program ensures that military members receive fair and transparent pricing for their moves and are treated respectfully and professionally.

Why Is It Important to Hire a Military-Approved Moving Company?

There are several reasons why hiring a military-approved moving company is essential. Firstly, these companies have undergone a rigorous screening process, making them more likely to provide reliable, high-quality moving services. 

Military-approved moving companies have experience working with military families and understand the unique challenges of moving military families. They know the importance of timing, coordination, and the specific requirements of military relocation.

Additionally, they can handle all the paperwork and documentation involved in a military move, including dealing with any government regulations.

Another essential reason to hire a military-approved moving company is that they offer additional protections to military personnel. Under the DP3 program, these companies must provide a certain level of liability coverage for the items being moved. 

This coverage ensures that military families are protected in case of any loss or damage to their belongings during the move. Moreover, military-approved moving companies are held to a high professional standard and must follow strict guidelines to ensure they provide the best possible service.

What Services Do Military-Approved Moving Companies Offer?

Military-approved moving companies offer a wide range of moving services, including:

  • Packing and Unpacking Services: Military-approved moving companies can help pack and unpack your belongings. They have experienced professionals who can handle delicate and fragile items with care.
  • Storage Solutions: Military-approved moving companies offer secure storage solutions for military families needing to store their belongings temporarily.
  • Transportation: Military-approved moving companies provide transportation for your belongings from your current location to your new location.
  • Logistics: Military-approved moving companies handle all the logistics involved in a military move, including coordination with the military and ensuring that all the necessary documentation is completed.
  • Insurance: Military-approved moving companies cover your belongings during the move. This coverage ensures that you are protected in case of any loss or damage to your belongings during the move.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Military-Approved Moving Company?

There are several benefits to hiring a military-approved moving company, including:

  • Peace of Mind: Hiring a military-approved moving company can provide peace of mind, knowing that your belongings are in the hands of experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges of a military move.
  • Reliability: Military-approved moving companies are reliable and efficient, ensuring your move is completed on time and without hassle.
  • Reduced Stress: Moving can be stressful, but hiring a military-approved moving company can help reduce your stress levels by handling all the logistics of the move.
  • Expertise: Military-approved moving companies have the expertise to handle all types of moves, including overseas moves, which can be complex and require additional coordination.
  • Additional Protections: Military-approved moving companies offer additional protections to military personnel, such as liability coverage for your belongings during the move.
  • Cost-Effective: Hiring a military-approved moving company can be cost-effective as they offer fair and transparent pricing, and you may be eligible for government subsidies for your move.
  • Time-Saving: Military-approved moving companies can help save time by handling all the paperwork and documentation required for a military move, which can be time-consuming and complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I know if I am eligible for military moving reimbursement?

Active duty military members and their families are generally eligible for military moving reimbursement. However, the specific entitlements and reimbursements can vary based on rank, dependents, and move distance. You can check with your transportation office or finance office for more information.

How do I schedule a government-contracted move?

To schedule a government-contracted move, you must contact your transportation office. They will provide information on the specific moving company the military has contracted with and the entitlements and reimbursement rates for your move.

What is a Personally Procured Move (PPM)?

A Personally Procured Move (PPM) is when you move your household items instead of using a government-contracted moving service. If you do a PPM, you can be reimbursed for your expenses based on a per-pound rate. The per-pound rate varies based on your rank and the distance of your move.

Can I choose my own moving company for a PPM?

Yes, you can choose your own moving company for a PPM. However, you must get approval from your transportation office and follow specific guidelines and regulations to be eligible for reimbursement.

What expenses can I be reimbursed for during a PPM?

If you do a PPM, you can be reimbursed for packing materials, gas, and lodging expenses. However, you must keep detailed records and receipts to submit for reimbursement.

Can I be reimbursed for storage expenses during my move?

You may be reimbursed for storage expenses if necessary due to your move. The government-contracted moving service will cover up to 90 days of storage for your household goods. If you do a PPM, you can be reimbursed for storage expenses, but only if the storage is necessary due to a delay in your move.

How do I submit my reimbursement claim?

To submit your reimbursement claim, complete a DD Form 1351-2 and submit it to your transportation or finance office. You must also include any supporting documentation, such as weight tickets, receipts, and a copy of your orders.

When will I receive my reimbursement?

The timeline for receiving reimbursement can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to process and receive your claim. Ensure you keep detailed records and submit your documentation promptly to help expedite the process.

In conclusion, hiring a military-approved moving company is essential for relocating military personnel. These companies have the expertise, experience, and resources to handle all types of moves, including overseas moves. 

They offer reliable and efficient services, provide additional protections, and can help reduce stress levels during a move. If you are a military member relocating, hiring a military-approved moving company is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free move.