Military Movers San Diego PPM: For the thousands of Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen stationed at Naval Base San Diego (32nd Street), MCAS Miramar, or Camp Pendleton, the term “PCS” brings a unique set of challenges. In 2026, the logistics of a Personally Procured Move (PPM)—formerly known as a DITY move—require more than just a truck; they require precision paperwork to ensure you get every cent of your reimbursement.
At Little Guy Big Truck, we specialize in the “nitty-gritty” of military relocations. Whether you are doing a full PPM or a partial move, here is your definitive guide to a successful San Diego PCS.
1. Understanding the PPM (Personally Procured Move)
A PPM allows you to move your household goods (HHG) yourself rather than using the government-arranged transportation service provider. In 2026, the military continues to reimburse members for 100% of the Government Constructed Cost (GCC).
Pro Tip: Many San Diego families opt for a Partial PPM. You let the government move the heavy stuff, while you move the essentials (and high-value items) yourself. This allows you to maintain control while still collecting an incentive payment.
2. The Golden Rule: Certified Weigh Tickets
The #1 reason military moving claims are delayed or denied is incorrect Weigh Tickets. To get paid, the Finance Office requires two certified tickets:
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Tare Weight (Empty): The weight of your moving vehicle with a full tank of gas but no cargo.
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Gross Weight (Full): The weight of the same vehicle after it is fully loaded with your HHG.
Where to get Weigh Tickets in San Diego?
You cannot just use any scale. It must be a Certified Public Scale. Popular locations in San Diego include:
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National City: Southern California Truck Stop (Tidelands Ave).
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El Cajon: R13, Inc. (Fayette Street).
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San Marcos: Eckert’s Moving & Storage (Certified Public Scales).
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Otay Mesa: Pilot Travel Center (Piper Ranch Rd) or various CAT Scales.
What to include on your ticket:
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Member’s Name and Rank
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Last 4 of SSN or Service ID
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Vehicle Identification (License Plate)
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Weighmaster’s Signature and Stamp
3. Storage Solutions: Deployments & Housing Gaps
San Diego’s housing market often moves slower than military orders. If your on-base housing at Lincoln Military Housing or your rental in Chula Vista isn’t ready, you need secure storage.
We offer specialized San Diego residential moving services that include transitions into temporary storage. Unlike “big box” storage facilities, we can help coordinate the inventory list required for your packing and protection claims.
4. Why Little Guy Big Truck for Military Moves?
Generic movers often forget that military moves require specific documentation for the Transportation Office (TO).
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PPM Documentation: We provide the clear, itemized receipts you need for your travel voucher (DD Form 1351-2).
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Expert Packing: Avoid “damage in transit” disputes. Our local movers use military-grade packing materials.
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Efficiency: We know the gate access procedures for major San Diego installations, ensuring no time (or money) is wasted at the sentry point.
San Diego PCS Checklist (60 Days Out)
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[ ] Visit the PPO: Head to the Personal Property Office at Bldg. 3376 (Naval Base San Diego) to get your DD Form 2278.
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[ ] Get a Quote: Contact Little Guy Big Truck for a professional estimate to compare against your GCC.
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[ ] Inventory Your Goods: Take photos of high-value items like pianos or electronics.
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[ ] Schedule Your Weights: Locate the nearest certified scale to your home or our facility.
Ready for a Stress-Free PCS?
Don’t leave your reimbursement to chance. Let our team of San Diego military moving experts handle the heavy lifting while you focus on the mission.
Get Your Military Move Quote Today
