Moving is a common part of military life, whether it’s your first Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or a seasoned move. A DITY move, now called a Personally Procured Move (PPM), gives military members the chance to handle their relocation and potentially earn money. If you’re stationed in or moving to Southern California, from the bustling city of Los Angeles to the coastal beauty of San Diego, here are some essential moving tips to make your transition smoother.
Plan Early and Get Informed
Start by visiting your base’s Personal Property Transportation Office (PPTO) in Southern California. Whether you’re at Camp Pendleton, Naval Base San Diego, or Los Angeles Air Force Base, they provide valuable resources like checklists and timelines that will guide your entire move.
Budget Wisely
Southern California is known for its high cost of living. When budgeting for your DITY move, account for fuel costs, especially for long-distance moves like from Twentynine Palms to an out-of-state assignment. Don’t forget to consider lodging, food, and unexpected expenses along the way.
Rent the Right Equipment
Assess the size of your household goods to choose the proper rental truck size. Rental agencies are plentiful in San Diego, Oceanside, and other cities. Be sure to reserve your truck early, especially during peak PCS seasons.
Packing Materials and Organization
Invest in high-quality packing materials. Many stores in military-heavy areas such as near Fort Irwin or Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake offer military discounts. Label your boxes with your name, room, and whether items are fragile. Maintain an inventory list, which will help during the weight certification process.
Obtain a Weight Certificate
A critical step in the DITY move process is obtaining a weight certificate. Before loading your truck, weigh it empty and obtain an empty weight ticket from a certified scale. Once loaded, weigh the truck again at a certified public truck scale in Southern California—locations in Long Beach and Los Angeles are ideal.
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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!
