Military Moving Is Just Like Civilian Moving, With More Paperwork
Posted 02/18/10
Military moving is a lot like civilian moving. When you receive Permanent Change of Station orders, you are, in effect, receiving the equivalent of a job transfer. Time to pack the family up and head out! Do you prefer a "do it yourself" military moving arrangement? Do it yourself military moving involves a few more steps than civilian moving, primarily with respect to expense documentation.You'll first need to obtain permission to move yourself from the Transportation Office on your current base; otherwise, you may not receive reimbursement of your moving expenses. The process requires you to submit four copies of your Permanent Change of Station orders to your Transportation Office and to complete an application for a do it yourself move.
Next, reserve your move with a company that specializes in military moving (and hopefully offers a military moving discount). The company that you choose must guarantee full and empty weight tickets. After you arrive at your new base and take delivery of your possessions, you'll submit your reimbursement claim to the Transportation Office on your new base.
Supporting documentation for your claim will include a copy of your Permanent Change of Station orders, your original application for do it yourself move, all moving expense receipts, a statement of incurred expenses, the voucher for your advance operating allowance, the bill of lading from your moving company, certified full and empty weight tickets and original travel voucher. Be sure to submit this paperwork within 45 days of your move. Reimbursement should arrive no later than 30 days following submission of your claim.
Once settled into your new base, take advantage of the Relocation Readiness Program. This program is designed to make the transition easier, through newcomer orientation, welcome packets and information on your new hometown.