DITY Move Calculator: PPM Costs and Savings Guide
Aug 19, 2026
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Learn how to calculate your military PPM costs
You've probably heard that arranging your own move for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders can lead to making money on it. But how does that work?
Choosing a Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly known as a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move, means you will be reimbursed for moving-related expenses based on what the government would have paid to handle it. If you spend less, you get to keep the difference.
Let’s review how you can calculate the cost of your DITY move to determine how much you’ll have left after reimbursement.
Basic DITY move formula
To figure out your moving rate and potential profit, you’ll need two key numbers: your PPM reimbursement incentive and your estimated total moving expenses. Then, subtract your moving expenses from the PPM incentive.
PPM incentive − total moving expenses = potential amount remaining
Let’s say your estimated PPM incentive is $15,000, and your moving expenses total $11,500.
$15,000 - $11,500 = $3,500
You could have $3,500 left over after reimbursement, which you’d get to keep as profit.
How much will you get for a PPM incentive?
Service members can expect 100% reimbursement of the Government-Constructed Cost (GCC), which is what the military would have paid for a contracted full-service move.
Previously, the reimbursement rate was only 95% of the GSC. Occasionally, the government will authorize higher reimbursement amounts, so it’s best to confirm with your Transportation Office (TO) for the most up-to-date information while completing your PCS paperwork.
What expenses can be reimbursed after a DITY move?
Typically, military personnel can expect reimbursement for the following moving-related costs:
- Equipment rental and transportation*
- Fuel
- Loading or unloading labor
- Packing supplies
- Storage
- Toll fees
*All branches require certified weight tickets for reimbursement.
Note: Personal travel expenses are handled separately.
U-Pack can help you calculate PCS moving expenses
One of the easiest ways to start estimating moving costs is to get a free quote from U-Pack®. We’ve handled military moves since 1997. We’re ready to help you save the most money on your PCS move so you can keep more of the reimbursement in your wallet.
You can get a free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to one of our skilled moving consultants. Don’t forget to request your weight tickets and military discount.
If you have questions about U-Pack or figuring out your DITY moving rate, let us know!
Suggested reading: How to pay for a military PCS.
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