Planning a Personally Procured Move (PPM), often called a do-it-yourself or DITY move, may seem to be a significant undertaking. Unlike a government-arranged move, a PPM places the logistics in your hands, offering more flexibility and potential financial benefits when executed carefully.
Armed with the proper knowledge and preparation, you can approach your relocation confidently, and stay well within Department of Defense (DoD) guidelines.
What a PPM Involves
A PPM is a type of relocation where service members manage their own move rather than relying on the government to arrange household goods shipment. You can choose a full PPM, where you move everything yourself, or a partial PPM, combining a government shipment with a personally managed portion.
These moves are set up through the Defense Personal Property Program systems, primarily the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) and MilMove.
Planning Your DITY Military Move
Planning a PPM or DITY move gives military families the flexibility to manage their relocation while potentially earning extra reimbursement. Proper planning and clear direction allow you to guide the process effectively, saving time and reducing stress.
1. Confirming Eligibility and Timing
You can start planning once official orders have been issued. From that point, service members can coordinate through their local Personal Property Office to schedule and receive counseling. The timing of when you begin is essential because shipping is only allowed after orders are in hand.
2. How Reimbursement Works
For many service members, the appeal of a PPM comes mainly from the reimbursement structure that can offset moving costs.
Normally, the government pays 100% of the constructed “Best Value” cost of moving the actual weight between your authorized locations. For the 2025 peak season, from May 15th to September 30th, the DoD temporarily raised reimbursement to 130% of the Global Household Goods Contract rate.
If your PPM qualifies under the tender-of-service program, reimbursement is calculated at 100% of the government’s constructed cost. Knowing these details can make a substantial difference when deciding whether to move everything yourself or split the shipment.
3. Knowing Your Weight Allowance
Household goods weight limits vary based on rank and whether you have dependents. For example, an E-5 with dependents is allowed 9,000 pounds, while an O-5 with dependents is permitted up to 17,500 pounds.
Professional books, papers, and equipment (commonly called pro-gear) do not count against the limit, provided they are properly declared in DPS or MilMove. Service members may exclude up to 2,000 pounds of pro-gear, and spouses may qualify for an additional 500 pounds if required for work or community activities.
4. Setting Up Your Shipment in DPS or MilMove
Once you’re ready to move forward, sign into DPS to initiate the process. If your orders qualify, you will be routed to MilMove. Choose the PPM option while setting up shipments, and if you want a partial PPM, start with the government-arranged household goods shipment before adding the PPM.
Approval from your local Transportation Office is required before spending funds, so always secure that confirmation in advance.
5. Requesting an Advance Payment
Since moving expenses can be significant, some service branches allow an advance operating allowance. For instance, the Navy authorizes up to 60% of the government’s constructive cost with an approved DD Form 2278 and valid orders.
Depending on your branch, you may also be authorized to use the Government Travel Charge Card for expenses. The best way to confirm your options is to check with your transportation and finance offices.
6. Choosing Equipment or a Moving Company
When arranging transportation, you can rent equipment or hire a professional military moving company. If you choose a commercial moving company, be cautious because you will not receive the same protections available in government-arranged moves.
Minimize risks by working exclusively with movers registered under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and staying alert for potential scams.
7. Documenting Vehicle and Container Weights
Accurate weight tickets are essential for securing reimbursement. You must present certified empty and full weight tickets from a certified scale, signed by the weigh master.
Vehicles must have full fuel tanks at each weighing, and no passengers can be inside during the process. Keep every ticket since both empty and full weights are required for payment.
8. Tracking Operating Expenses
Certain out-of-pocket costs can reduce the taxable portion of your PPM payment. Allowable expenses include truck or trailer rentals, packing materials, hand truck and dolly rentals, fuel, tolls, and certified weight fees.
Items such as meals, lodging, storage, or the purchase of tools are excluded. Save every receipt to simplify filing and tax reporting.
9. Using Storage When Authorized
If you require temporary storage, Storage in Transit (SIT) may be available. Typically, SIT is limited to 90 days with a possible extension for qualifying circumstances approved by your Transportation Office. For PPM moves, reimbursement is based on actual costs but may not exceed the government-constructed cost.
10. Preparing For Moving Day
Before loading begins, keep pro-gear separate so it does not count against your allowance. Double-check that receipts and weight tickets are collected and organized.
If you received an advance, bear in mind that most services, including the Navy, require the final claim to be submitted within 45 days of pickup, or the funds may be deducted from pay.
11. Filing For Payment
Your settlement package will include several important documents: DD Form 1351-2, your orders, the approved DD Form 2278, certified weight tickets, paid rental agreements, and an operating expense worksheet if applicable.
If a privately owned vehicle, boat, or trailer was used, registration documents may also be required. Submitting a complete package reduces payment delays.
Wrapping Up Your DITY Move
While managing a PPM demands attention to detail and thorough preparation, the outcome can be highly beneficial. Taking the time to prepare properly gives you peace of mind and helps you avoid any last-minute stress.
At MG Moving Services, we know that even the most organized move can feel overwhelming without the right help. That’s why we’ve built our reputation on offering dependable moving support for families and businesses across Northern Virginia, Maryland, Washington, DC, Lynchburg, and Florida.
Our moving professionals are ready to assist, whether your relocation keeps you within your hometown or takes you across state borders. Reach out today for a free moving quote, or call (888) 707-7709 and let us help make your transition as smooth as possible.