PPM Methods
When doing a PPM, you have the ability to do the PPM however you want. Families now have many options available to them to create a custom and tailored experience that will meet your needs and budget. Your budget, desires, and size of shipment may play an important role in which route you decide to go.
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DIY: In this method you are truly doing it all! This would be where you decide to pack everything, rent a truck, load the truck, drive the truck, and unload the truck. This option is usually great if you don’t have a large shipment or are not going a far distance.
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Containers/Trailers: This is becoming an ever-increasing popular option for families. There are several companies who can drop a container or truck trailer at your driveway for you to pack, load and unload while they take care of the hauling. This gives you the ability to load over a few days rather than doing it all at once.
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Full Service: Many folks will want the control of the PPM but have no desire to pack or load anything. Full-service companies would work similar to if the military contracted your shipment out, but you are removing the military as the middleman. You can have more control in deciding your dates, and other aspects of the move.
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Options: In doing a PPM, it doesn’t have to be just one of these options. Essentially, it could be a combination of options. You can pack everything, or just certain items, or nothing. You can use a container company and still elect to hire a crew to load and unload. The best thing about a PPM is the ability to make your move be how you want it!
Things to Know:
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- It is very important that you review the contract you sign and understand what it says, even the fine print. A binding contract means the price quoted should not change unless something else changes like your weight, distance, or potentially your dates. Whereas a non-binding contract could have the price change between the time you got your quote to the time you book.
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- Keep in mind that when doing a PPM, you will no longer file any loss or damage claims with the military. You will need to ask the company you hire about what they do and do not cover, their valuation limits, or additional insurance available to purchase. It is also a great idea to keep your renters or personal property insurance policy up to date and in place during your move.
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For more information, please see the US Transcom PPM Fact Sheet
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