If you’re a service member preparing for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), chances are you’ve already received those all-important PCS orders. While your first instinct may be to tackle the move on your own, there’s a smarter, easier way to handle it in 2025: let professional carriers do the heavy lifting while you focus on the transition.
Today, what used to be known as a DITY move is now officially called a Personally Procured Move (PPM). This option gives you more control over how your belongings are moved, and with recent updates to reimbursement rates, it can be more cost-effective than ever.
Why Choose a PPM Over a Traditional Military Move?
PPMs give service members the flexibility to manage their own relocation. Instead of letting the government assign a Transportation Service Provider (TSP), you decide how and when your things get moved. Better yet, the Department of Defense now reimburses up to 130% of what it would cost the government to move your items. That means:
- More freedom to choose your method
- Potential to profit if you move for less than the reimbursed amount
- Greater control over your timeline and possessions
Source: DoD Reimbursement Rate Increase
Comparing Costs: Professional Movers vs. Doing It All Yourself
In the past, service members would often go the DIY route, renting trucks and lifting furniture themselves to maximize reimbursement. But in 2025, the numbers tell a different story:
| Option | Estimated Cost | Reimbursement Potential | Pros |
| Renting a truck & moving yourself | $2,500 | $3,000+ | Highest control, most labor-intensive |
| Hiring pros via uShip | $2,800 | $3,000+ | No lifting, more time for out-processing |
| Government-assigned movers | No out-of-pocket | No reimbursement | Least flexibility |
When you use a marketplace like uShip, you can compare quotes from feedback-rated carriers and choose a mover that fits your needs and budget.
What to Do When You Get PCS Orders
Getting your PCS orders is the first step in a multi-part process. Here’s what to do next:
- Contact Your Local TO/PPSO
- Submit DD Form 2278 to request a PPM
- Get move counseling and approval
- Use MilitaryINSTALLATIONS to find your nearest office
- Research Your Moving Options
- Consider whether you want to move yourself or book help through uShip
- Use the PPM Calculator to estimate your reimbursement
- Gather Documentation
- Certified weight tickets (before and after loading)
- Receipts for gas, tolls, rentals, and lodging
- Rental agreements or moving contracts
- Make the Move
- Coordinate pickup and delivery with your chosen carrier
- Stay organized and keep copies of all paperwork
- Submit for Reimbursement
- Return to your TO or PPSO to finalize your claim
- Typically due within 45 days of completing your move
Why uShip Is a Smart Option for PPM Moves
- Compare Quotes: Get multiple bids from professional, experienced carriers
- Save Time: Let someone else handle the heavy lifting while you focus on your next duty station
- Military Discounts: Service members get service fees waived with ID.me verification
Final Thoughts
PCS orders mark the start of a new chapter, but moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a PPM, you have the power to plan your move your way — and with uShip, you can do it affordably and stress-free. Get reimbursed, save time, and arrive at your next assignment ready to roll.
Explore more at uShip Military Moves.
TL;DR: PCS Orders? Here’s How to Save in 2025
- PPMs are flexible, efficient, and can help you arrive at your next duty station stress-free.
- A Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly a DITY move, gives you more control and money back.
- DoD now reimburses up to 130% of the government’s moving costs.
- Use uShip to compare pro carriers, book easily, and avoid doing all the heavy lifting.
- Keep weight tickets, receipts, and forms like DD 2278 to ensure full reimbursement.
