A message to DOD Personnel and their Families:

 Like many sectors, labor challenges in the moving and storage industry are driving tighter-than-normal capacity in the Defense Personal Property Program.  These challenges are compounded by competition with non-DOD clients (like corporate and residential customers) vying for the same services.   In many locations, DOD personnel must wait upwards of four to six weeks for available moving crews.  Demand is similarly high for rental trucks and storage containers used by customers interested in a Personally Procured Move.  Senior leaders across the DOD’s Personnel and Logistics communities are aware of the issues and are exploring options to solve relocation-related problems for military families. 

Steps you can take: 

• Visit your Transportation Office as soon as you receive orders.  Don’t wait!
• Whether this is your first move or your 15th, take advantage of counseling.  Your local transportation office is your best resource to understand the specific challenges and delays in your community.
• If movers cannot be arranged to support your timeline, talk with your chain of command immediately to explore options—which may include changes to reporting timelines.
• Be patient with your transportation office personnel!  They want to solve problems for you.  Contact your local transportation office if your moving plans change or if you have questions regarding your move once scheduled. 

In no case should a customer feel compelled to conduct a Personally Procured Move.  Similarly, no customer should feel compelled to leave family members behind to handle a household goods move on their own.