Doing a military DITY move can be quite profitable, if you do it right. The government will reimburse you for 90 percent or more of what it would have cost them to hire a professional moving team to pack and move you. And most people can do a military DITY move much cheaper than what it would cost a full service mover to do everything. But before you pour your heart and sweat into a DITY move, there are a few things to consider first.
4 Things to Know Before You Commit to a Military DITY Move:
1. Know the requirements.
Meet with the office on base that handles military moves (each branch of service calls it something different.) Make sure you know that a military DITY move is an option for your particular assignment before you do any planning. Make sure you know what is required for reimbursement and the deadlines for all paperwork submission, so you do not risk losing your reimbursement. And know your maximum allowable weight limit. The government will not pay to move anything beyond that, regardless of how you choose to move.
2. Be sure you can handle the work.
A military DITY move requires that you are very organized and requires a lot of attention to detail. Make sure you are ready to research moving options, obtain estimates and secure contracts and rental agreements. And, most importantly, make sure you and your family are ready for the packing and lifting ahead.
3. Check your budget.
Although you will be reimbursed for your moving expenses and will be given a travel advance, there are always things that come up that you will need to pay out of pocket at first. Make sure you know your budget and have planned for some cushion while you await for reimbursement.
4. Have the time.
If your schedule or a short PCS time frame will not allow you the time to put toward a military DITY move, it will be a huge headache and may end up costing you more (both financially and emotionally) in the long run.