Moving is a fact of life in the military. Whether it’s your first Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or you’re a seasoned pro, a DITY move (Do It Yourself), now referred to as a Personally Procured Move (PPM), offers military members the opportunity to handle their own relocation and potentially earn money in the process. For those stationed in or moving to the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Southern California, from the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles to the sun-soaked shores of San Diego, here are some essential tips to help ensure your move is as smooth as possible.
Plan Early and Be Informed Start by visiting your base’s Personal Property Transportation Office (PPTO) in Southern California. Whether you’re stationed at Camp Pendleton, Naval Base San Diego, or Los Angeles Air Force Base, get the latest information and guidelines. They can provide valuable checklists and timelines which will be the backbone of your move.
Budget Wisely Southern California is notorious for its high cost of living. Budgeting for your DITY move is crucial. Take into consideration fuel costs, especially for longer treks, for example, from Twentynine Palms to a new assignment outside the state. Don’t forget to factor in lodging, food, and any unforeseen expenses.
Renting the Right Equipment Evaluate the size of your household goods to determine the size of the rental truck you’ll need. Local rental agencies in populous cities like San Diego or smaller towns like Oceanside are abundant. Make your reservations as soon as you have your orders to ensure availability, especially during peak PCS seasons.
Packing Materials and Organization Invest in quality packing materials. Stores in heavily militarized areas like the vicinity around Fort Irwin or Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake may offer military discounts. Label boxes with your name, the room they belong to, and whether the contents are fragile. Keep an inventory list — this will be vital during the weight certification process.
Obtain a Weight Certificate This is crucial for a DITY move. Before you load your truck, you must weigh it empty and obtain an empty weight ticket from a certified scale. After loading, you’ll need to weigh your truck fully loaded. In Southern California, ensure you use a military-approved public truck scale. These can often be found in or around large cities such as Long Beach or Los Angeles:
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Los Angeles Public Scales
5244 W. Jefferson BlvdLos Angeles, CA 90016Phone
Phone (310) 432 3980 OPEN: Monday-Friday 9AM-4PM
No Appointment Needed
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Remember, weight tickets are your proof of the weight of your household goods and will determine your reimbursement. Keep them safe and make sure the weight certificates include the following:
- The complete name, signature, and location of the scale operator
- The date of the weight
- Your vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Your name or the name of the person who owns the vehicle
Stay Legal on the Road Ensure your rental vehicle is in good shape and that you’re familiar with its operation. California has strict emissions and vehicle laws, so check that your rented moving truck is compliant. Also, stay informed about the specific traffic laws and regulations of each Southern California city you’ll travel through, be it the bustling streets of LA or the scenic routes of Santa Barbara.
Storage Solutions If you arrive at your new destination but your housing isn’t ready, you might need storage. In military-centric areas like San Diego County or near Edwards AFB, you can find storage facilities that may offer discounts for military members.
File for Reimbursement Promptly After the move, submit your paperwork as soon as possible to claim your reimbursement. This includes your certified weight tickets, any receipts for moving-related expenses, and your completed PPM paperwork.
Take Care of Yourself and Your Family Lastly, the stress of a DITY move on top of your military responsibilities can be overwhelming. Take breaks when you need them, stay hydrated, and remember that moving services, family centers, and your fellow service members can be valuable resources.
Southern California offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for military families on the move. By following these steps and utilizing available military support services, your DITY move can be a successful venture that leads to your next adventure in service.
AND WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!
