How to Ace Your DITY Move (Now Known as a PPM)
If you’re a service member planning a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), a Personally Procured Move (PPM) — formerly known as a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move — might be your best option. A PPM gives you control over how and when your belongings are moved, and even lets you pocket the difference if your actual costs are lower than the government reimbursement rate.
As of 2025, the Department of Defense has increased the reimbursement rate for PPMs to 130% of what it would cost the government to move your items. That means even more opportunity to save on your next PCS move.
Here are five key steps to ace your PPM:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before getting too deep into planning, talk with your local Transportation Office (TO) or Personal Property Shipping Office (PPSO). They can verify whether you’re eligible for a PPM based on your orders and location. You’ll also need to:
- Complete DD Form 2278
- Provide copies of your PCS orders
- Receive move counseling and formal approval to proceed
Find your local office through MilitaryINSTALLATIONS.
Step 2: Weigh Your Options (Literally)
To get reimbursed, you must provide certified weight tickets from a certified scale, both before and after your items are loaded. This applies whether you use your own vehicle, rent a truck, or hire a carrier. Keep in mind:
- Weight tickets must include vehicle info, date, location, and whether the weight was full or empty
- Save all receipts related to your move: fuel, tolls, lodging, rental fees, etc.
Use the PPM Calculator to estimate your reimbursement in advance.
Step 3: Choose the Right Transportation Option
Whether you’re moving everything yourself or hiring help, you have flexibility. Consider:
- Renting and driving a truck yourself
- Hiring professional help through uShip
- Using a portable storage container
- Doing a partial PPM (you move some items, the government moves the rest)
uShip lets you compare quotes from feedback-rated carriers and book your move with confidence.
Step 4: Keep Track of Paperwork
Documentation is essential. Here’s what to track:
- DD Form 2278 and your PCS orders
- Certified empty and full weight tickets
- All expense receipts (fuel, tolls, shipping, etc.)
- Rental contracts or shipping agreements
You’ll submit all of this to your TO or PPSO to receive reimbursement.
Step 5: Submit for Reimbursement
Once your move is complete, return to your Transportation Office to process your claim. Be sure to:
- Submit your full packet of documents
- Ask about any deadlines (generally within 45 days)
- Keep copies of everything for your records
Reimbursement is usually processed within a few weeks and can be direct-deposited to your account.
Why Choose a PPM in 2025?
- Get Paid More: The DoD’s current reimbursement rate is up to 130% of the government’s estimated moving cost
- Flexibility: Choose your own timeline and method
- Simplicity: Use uShip to book reliable, professional movers on your terms
Additional Resources
- uShip Military Moves
- uShip’s Military Moves Guide
- Plan My Move – Military OneSource
- PPM Calculator
- DoD Reimbursement Update (PDF)
Whether you still call it a DITY or you’re adjusting to the PPM terminology, the outcome is the same: a chance to take control of your PCS move and save money in the process.
TL;DR: DITY Move Success in 2025 (Now PPM)
- DITY moves are now called PPMs, but the benefits remain.
- You can get reimbursed up to 130% of what the government would pay.
- Get approval through your Transportation Office with DD Form 2278.
- Collect weight tickets, receipts, and rental agreements for reimbursement.
- Use uShip to compare carriers and book your PCS move with confidence.
