PCS Tool · HHG / DPS

Letting the government move you? Here's the DPS playbook.

The household-goods (HHG) path runs through DPS — the Defense Personal Property System. Gather everything DPS asks for before you log in, follow the process step by step, and know what forms it generates. The other path is doing it yourself for a profit — see the fork below.

Not sure which path? A DITY/PPM move pays you to move yourself — often thousands in profit.

Compare: should I do a DITY instead? →

Before you log into DPS

0/6 ready

DPS asks for all of this when you create a shipment. Gather it first so you can finish in one sitting. Saves locally in your browser — no login.

Your contact informationCurrent phone + email DPS and the moving company can reach you at.Estimated weightRough total weight of your household goods. ~1,000 lbs per furnished room is the common rule of thumb.Pickup and delivery locationsOrigin address + destination (or 'TBD'/temporary if you haven't secured housing yet).Pickup and delivery datesYou'll choose a 7-day spread window for pickup (see below). Have your report date + ideal timeline ready.Special entitlement itemsBoat, firearms, large electronics, etc. — DPS asks about these separately.Estimated weight of PBP&EProfessional Books, Papers & Equipment — pro-gear that doesn't count against your weight allowance. Estimate its weight separately.

The DPS process, in order

Set up your DPS accountLog in with your CAC, or obtain a user ID and password first. Follow the 'New User Registration' tutorial in DPS to set up your account.
First-time mover, separating, or retiring? Call first.First-time movers, separating service members, and retirees MUST contact their local transportation office before scheduling a move in DPS. Don't skip this.
Create your shipmentFollow the 'Create a Shipment' (or 'Create a PPM Shipment') tutorial in DPS. Upload your orders and answer the move questions — have the prep list above ready.
Pick your 7-day spread windowYou select packing + pickup dates as a 7-day spread — the window during which your moving company is required to pick up your shipment. (7-Day Spread Window Policy.)
Submit — the transportation office takes it from hereOnce your application (DD Form 1299) is submitted, your local transportation office reviews it, then routes + awards it to a Transportation Service Provider (TSP) — the company that actually moves you.

Go to DPS (move.mil) →

Forms DPS generates for you

You don't fill these out by hand — DPS auto-generates them when counseling is complete. Listed so you know what you're signing.

DD 1797Personal Property Counseling ChecklistAuto-generated by DPS upon completion of counseling.

DD 1299Application for Shipment and/or Storage of Personal PropertyAuto-generated by DPS upon completion of counseling. This is the application your transportation office routes to a TSP.