While many military families choose to use military movers, others opt for a Personally Procured Move, or PPM, formerly known as a DITY move. While PPMs require more effort, time, and money, they can offer greater flexibility and opportunities to get ahead financially. The key to making a DITY move worthwhile is learning how to reduce your costs.
If you’re considering a PPM, here’s how to make it as cost-effective and stress-free as possible.
Types of PPMs
There are two kinds of Personally Procured Moves. The first is a Member-Elected PPM, in which service members choose to move themselves. The second is an Actual Cost Reimbursement PPM, where service members must complete a PPM because the government-provided moving company isn't available to meet their needs.
The Actual Cost Reimbursement requires pre-approval from the Transportation Office.
PPM vs. Military Movers: Which is Better?
There’s always been a controversial debate about whether military families should use military movers or handle the move themselves. While many could never fathom packing, loading, and moving their household goods, there’s always been one clear advantage (minus the HomeSafe Alliance debacle of 2025) to those who chose to DIY their military move. Most are able to pocket a little cash at the back end of the move.
The choice comes down to each military member's priorities. Is it more valuable to put in the work to control your belongings and pay yourself for your time, or is it more important to relieve yourself of the headache and let movers do the heavy lifting?
Common PPM Services
It’s important for those who choose a PPM to find the most budget-friendly options to reduce the amount they’ll pay out of pocket. Expenses like rental trucks, moving containers, and hiring packers or loaders are crucial decisions in your DITY move.
While popular moving container companies have increased their prices over the years, other companies have popped up, giving more options to consider before booking. Many also offer door-to-door services and loading and unloading. Depending on your budget and how much you’re willing to spend, these services can be very helpful.
Insights into PPM Reimbursements
The big question that everyone wants to know is, how much money can you make with a PPM move?
While reimbursement decreased to 95% of the government rate last year, the Member-Elected PPM is back up to 100%. The Actual Cost Reimbursement also has a 100% reimbursement rate. So, how much money can you make? The answer now depends on how inexpensively you can move. The less money you spend, the more profit you retain from your reimbursement.
Tips to Make Your PPM More Affordable
PCS moves are already expensive without worrying about paying out of pocket for your household goods. Fees like rental security deposits, gasoline, eating out while traveling, and hotel bookings add up. Add a PPM/DITY move into the mix, and you’re also paying for packing materials.
How to Reduce Costs During a PPM
1. Ask for military discounts. Many truck rental companies, storage facilities, hotels, and moving supply retailers offer military discounts. Even small savings on multiple expenses can add up over the course of a move.
2. Be mindful of your household goods weight allowance. Ensure you’re as close to the reimbursement rate as possible.
3. Book truck rentals early to ensure the best rates and availability. Rates can vary depending on the company, pickup location, and time of year. By reserving early, you may see more options and secure a lower rate before the PCS season drives up demand.
4. Don't buy new boxes. Check local military spouse groups and neighborhood chats for gently used moving boxes and packing materials, as many military families give away their moving supplies after settling into their new duty station.
5. Be strategic about packing supplies. Use towels, blankets, linens, and clothing to insulate fragile items.
6. Consider a partial PPM. If a full PPM/DITY move isn't the best fit, a partial PPM allows you to move some of your belongings while the government takes care of the rest. This can reduce out-of-pocket expenses while still providing an opportunity to earn a small sum.
So, is a PPM worth it? For some military families, absolutely. A Personally Procured Move offers benefits such as greater control over your household goods, flexibility in your moving timeline, and the potential to keep some reimbursement funds.
Whether you choose a full PPM, a partial PPM, or military movers, understanding your options helps avoid surprises and make the most of your military moving benefits. The best move is the one that fits your family's needs, budget, and peace of mind.
