We can all agree that moving is the one thing you can expect from military life. But, when it comes to how you move, the military gives you the option to let them handle all of the details (Government Procured Move or GPM) or you can take control (and maybe make some money) by engaging in a Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly known as a DITY Move.
PPM moves present some unique advantages over GPM moves, which is why some military families choose to move themselves time and time again instead of relying on the government. Here are the most common benefits:
There’s potential to make money.
If you opt for a PPM, the government will pay you 95 percent of what it would cost for a GPM, in addition to the standard travel allowances for your family. If you spend less than the amount you received, you are not obligated to return what you did not spend.
You have complete control over the process.
Not only are you able to supervise and manage the entire move, but you can decide how much of the actual move you want to handle yourself. You are able to pack your own household goods, choose which moving company you want to use (if any), and you don’t have to compete for an optimal load/unload schedule with government moving companies. You’ll also know exactly where your household goods are stored. If you opt to not use a moving company, your stuff remains with you.
You get more time.
Those opting for a PPM are given additional time to handle the move, allowing for more efficiency and planning during the process. This can be ideal when you get last minute orders and are unable to schedule a military moving company within a short turnaround time.
Who is eligible for a PPM?
PPM moves are voluntary and you’re eligible when you make a Permanent Change of Station, Temporary Duty, Temporary Additional Duty move, or when you separate, retire, or move to or from governments quarters while on orders.
Before you embark on a PPM move, make sure that you have all of the necessary documentation needed by the government.
Paperwork
- DD1351-2 – Completed and signed by reviewing official
- PCS Travel Orders
- DD2278 – Calculated by the Transportation Office (Weight allowances are based on rank and type of move.)
- Copies of Certified Weight tickets including gross (full) weight and one for tare (empty) weight
- Operating Expense (OPE) Worksheet (if attempting to reduce your taxable income)
- Copy of Paid Rental Agreement
- Copy of vehicle registration when utilizing POV and/or boat/trailer move
Common Operating Expenses
Operating Expenses are goods that service members pay for that lower their taxable income when they claim the PPM on their tax returns. Note that military moves are not taxable unless you receive incentive pay which is taxed at 22 percent.
Authorized Expenses
- Rental Truck/Trailer
- Hand Truck/Dollies-Rental
- Furniture Pads
- Boxes/Tape
- Oil/Fuel
- Tolls
- Hired Labor
- Rope/Tarps/Tie-Downs/Tie Straps
- Packing Material
- Weight Ticket Fees
- PODS
- Environmental Fees
Unauthorized Expenses
- Safe Move Insurance
- Purchase of Auto Transporter/Dollies
- Extra Drivers
- Totes
- Oil Change/Lube
- Meals/Lodging
- Sales Tax
- Hitch Fees/Tow Bars
- Routine Maintenance
- Storage
- Locks
- Tire Chains
If you’re considering a PPM, start by reaching out to the travel office at your installation for specific details on your move. You might also have to get counseling prior to being approved for a PPM. Additionally, the travel office will provide step-by-step instructions on what documents you need (and where to get them), make recommendations, and serve as a useful resource during your transition.
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| PCS Tips For Military Families | PCS Packing Tips |
| Calculating a Personally Procured Move | 3 Tips For An Easier PCS |
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