Relocating? Make your own move

  • Published
  • By Shannon Bills
  • 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron chief of person property
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The Air Force often arranges personal property moves for affiliated families relocating for official or job-related reasons. These reasons include permanent changes of station, separations, retirements and certain temporary duty assignments.

However, people in these situations also have the option to move themselves. This option is called a personally procured move. It means people arrange the relocation of their personal property and receive 95 percent of the cost the government would incur to move it for them.

Those doing a personally procured move from McConnell to Travis Air Force Base, Calif., transporting 9,000 pounds of property would receive approximately $8,495.28. People relocating to Langley AFB, Va., moving the same amount, would receive around $3,915.22.

Move costs are based on the weight of items transported but cannot exceed a person's authorized weight allowances.

Movers can also be authorized a monetary advance of up to 60 percent of the estimated move cost to help with relocation.

Those interested must first meet with a McConnell Personal Property Office counselor to see if they are authorized to perform a PPM.

Once approved, movers must obtain the equipment, packing materials and vehicles necessary to safely transport their property. They also have to locate a vehicle scale and obtain certified weight tickets for each vehicle when it's empty and packed. Those who hire commercial carriers must get weight tickets from the respective moving company.

People cannot use government vehicles to move personal property. Other than that, there are no restrictions on the type of transportation or equipment people can use to move.

People should keep receipts for all moving expenses. They should submit all related documentation and settlement claims to the personal property office at their new location within 45 days of moving. Those retiring or separating should mail paperwork to the personal property office of their final duty station. Failing to comply with these requirements can limit payments and result in denial of claims.

For more information, call the McConnell Personal Property Office at 759-5915 or stop by building 750, Room 104.