If you're a member of the military, then you may have heard of the Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move program. This program allows service members and their families to take control of their moving process, including packing and transporting their belongings, rather than relying on a government-contracted moving company. While it may seem daunting to take on such a task yourself, with some preparation and planning, a DITY move can save you time, money, and stress. In this article, we'll discuss some helpful tips and tricks for a successful DITY military move.
Table of Contents
1. What is a DITY Move?
2. Benefits of a DITY Move
3. Considerations Before Starting a DITY Move
4. How to Prepare for a DITY Move
5. Tips for Packing and Transporting Your Belongings
6. Managing Your Expenses during a DITY Move
7. How to File for Reimbursement
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid During a DITY Move
9. Conclusion
10. FAQs
1. What is a DITY Move?
A DITY move is a move that is completed by the service member or their family members, without the use of a government-contracted moving company. It is also known as a Personally Procured Move (PPM). Under the program, the military provides a reimbursement for the costs of packing, transporting, and storing your belongings.
2. Benefits of a DITY Move
One of the main benefits of a DITY move is that you have complete control over the process. You get to decide when to start packing and how to organize your belongings. This can be especially important if you have unique items that require special handling or if you want to pack certain items in a specific way.
Another benefit is the potential cost savings. By taking on the move yourself, you may be able to save money on packing supplies and transportation costs. Additionally, if you're able to pack efficiently, you may be able to fit all your belongings in a smaller truck, which can save you money on rental fees.
3. Considerations Before Starting a DITY Move
Before you start planning your DITY move, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the time and effort it will take to pack and transport your belongings. Do you have the time and energy to take on this task? If not, it may be worth considering hiring a moving company instead.
You should also think about the distance of your move and the logistics of transporting your belongings. If you're moving across the country, for example, you may need to rent a larger truck and take several days to complete the move.
Finally, consider the potential risks of transporting your belongings yourself. If you're not experienced with driving a moving truck or securing your belongings, you may be putting yourself and your belongings at risk.
4. How to Prepare for a DITY Move
To ensure a successful DITY move, it's important to prepare ahead of time. Here are a few tips:
• Make a detailed checklist of all the tasks you need to complete before the move.
• Start packing early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Get rid of any items you no longer need or want to reduce the amount of stuff you have to move.
• Take inventory of all your belongings and make note of any valuable or fragile items that require special handling.
• Research rental truck companies to find the best rates and availability.
• Obtain any necessary permits or licenses for transporting your belongings.
5. Tips for Packing and Transporting Your Belongings
Packing and transporting your belongings is the most time-consuming part of a DITY move. Here are some tips to make the process
• Label all boxes clearly with the contents and the room they belong in to make unpacking easier.
• Use high-quality packing materials, such as sturdy boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap, to protect your belongings during transportation.
• Pack heavier items at the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top to prevent damage.
• Use furniture pads and straps to secure larger items during transportation.
• If you're moving long-distance, consider hiring a professional driver to help transport your belongings.
6. Managing Your Expenses during a DITY Move
One of the benefits of a DITY move is the potential cost savings, but it's important to manage your expenses to ensure you don't exceed your reimbursement amount. Here are some tips:
• Keep all receipts and documents related to your move, including packing supply receipts and rental truck contracts.
• Use a mileage calculator to estimate the cost of gas and mileage for your move.
• Compare prices from different rental truck companies to find the best rates.
• Consider using military discounts and coupons to save on packing supplies and truck rentals.
7. How to File for Reimbursement
To receive reimbursement for your DITY move, you'll need to file a claim with your branch of the military. Here are the steps to follow:
• Keep all receipts and documents related to your move.
• Fill out a DD Form 1351-2, which is the Travel Voucher or Subvoucher form.
• Attach all receipts and supporting documents to the form.
• Submit the form to the appropriate office within your branch of the military.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid During a DITY Move
Here are some common mistakes to avoid during a DITY move:
• Failing to plan ahead and leaving packing and logistics to the last minute.
• Underestimating the time and effort required to pack and transport your belongings.
• Overpacking the truck and exceeding weight limits.
• Not properly securing items during transportation.
• Failing to keep accurate records and receipts for reimbursement.
9. Conclusion
A DITY move can be a great option for service members and their families who want more control over their moving process and potential cost savings. However, it's important to plan ahead, pack carefully, and manage your expenses to ensure a successful move. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can make your DITY move a success.
10. FAQs
How much reimbursement can I receive for a DITY move?
Reimbursement amounts vary based on your rank and the distance of your move. Check with your branch of the military for specific information.
Can I hire professional movers for certain aspects of my DITY move?
Yes, you can hire professional movers for certain tasks, such as loading and unloading your truck, and still receive reimbursement for those expenses.
Can I use my personal vehicle for my DITY move?
Yes, you can use your personal vehicle for your move and receive reimbursement for gas and mileage expenses.
How long does it take to receive reimbursement for a DITY move?
Reimbursement times vary, but it's important to submit your claim and all supporting documents as soon as possible to avoid delays.
What if I exceed my reimbursement amount during my DITY move?
If you exceed your reimbursement amount, you'll be responsible for paying the difference out of pocket. Be sure to manage your expenses carefully to avoid this situation.
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