DITY Moving Tips for Military Families

What is a Personally Procured Move (PPM) and is it right for you?

A quick decision guide for PCS planning.

A military do-it-yourself move (DITY), also called a personally procured move (PPM), may be the right choice if you:

• Want more control over your moving timeline
• Are comfortable handling some logistics and paperwork
• May benefit financially from reimbursement
• Are moving a smaller household or only part of your belongings (a partial DITY move)

If you prefer a fully hands-off move, a government-arranged HHG move may be a better option.

For military families, moving is a part of life, often happening every two to three years. But along with a temporary or permanent change of station (PCS) move comes a big decision: how will you handle it?

A DITY move, now officially known as a personally procured move (PPM), is one option. This type of move gives service members more control over their relocation and the opportunity to earn reimbursement for doing some or all of the move themselves. Originally referred to as a do-it-yourself move military option, this approach can be flexible and cost-effective, but it's not the right choice for everyone.

Below, we'll answer the question: what is a personally procured move? Then we'll discuss how it works and what to consider when deciding whether a PPM is the right move for you.

What Is a Personally Procured Move?

A personally procured move (PPM) is a military relocation option in which a service member moves their household goods instead of having the government handle the entire move. This type of military do-it-yourself move allows families to take a more hands-on approach to their relocation.

With a PPM, you may choose a:

• Full DITY/PPM move (you handle everything)
• Partial DITY/PPM move (you move some items, the government moves the rest)

In return, you’re reimbursed based on what the government estimates it would have cost to move your household goods. This reimbursement is tied to factors such as rank, dependency status and total weight moved.

PPM/DITY Move vs. Government (HHG) Move

When planning a PCS, service members typically choose between a government-arranged household goods (HHG) move and a personally procured move (PPM).

A PPM/DITY move may provide:

• More flexibility over timing and logistics
• The ability to earn reimbursement
• Control over how belongings are packed and transported

An HHG move may be better if you prefer:

• Minimal hands-on involvement
• Fewer logistics to manage
• A fully arranged move through the military

Some service members choose a partial DITY move, combining both options for added flexibility during a permanent change of station.

Is a PPM/DITY Move Right for You?

A PPM/DITY move may be a good fit if:

• You want more control over your moving timeline
• You’re comfortable coordinating transportation and paperwork
• You may benefit financially from reimbursement
• You’re moving a smaller household or only part of your belongings
• You don’t mind being hands-on with packing and loading

It may not be the best option if:

• You prefer a hands-off move
• Time or physical demands are a concern
• You’re relocating with limited flexibility

Understanding your priorities can help you choose the option that will work best for you.

Practical Tips for a Successful PPM Move

If you decide a personally procured move (PPM) is right for you, preparation is key.

1. Save Your Receipts

Reimbursement for a PPM is based on documented expenses and weight moved. Keep all moving-related receipts, including those for:

• Fuel
• Tolls
• Packing supplies
• Weight tickets

Organizing paperwork early can help streamline the reimbursement process.

2. Determine Your Truck's Weight

Reimbursement is tied to the total weight of your household goods. Weighing your truck before and after loading ensures accurate documentation.

If you’re unsure where to find a certified scale, Penske’s Certified Public Scale Locator helps you find the nearest weigh station.

3. Choose the Right Truck

Selecting the right truck size helps avoid multiple trips, unnecessary fuel costs and issues with loading space. If you’re unsure what size you need:

• Review Moving Truck Sizes: How to Choose the Right Truck for Your Move
• Use the Penske Truck Wizard to estimate the best truck size based on your home and belongings

4. Explore Additional Services

Some PPM/DITY moves still require extra help. When time or assistance is limited, third-party services can assist with:

• Packing and loading
• Unloading
• Short-term storage

These services can be combined with a PPM for added flexibility. Explore your moving options.

How Penske Supports PPM/DITY Moves

Penske is proud to support military families with tools and resources designed to make military do-it-yourself moves easier.

• Dedicated Military Call Center: Staffed by professionals with personal military connections. Call 1-844-4TROOPS (1-844-487-6677) to get help choosing the right truck or understanding move requirements
• Military Discount: Active, retired and veteran service members receive 15% off truck rentals at participating locations*

With nationwide availability and military-focused support, Penske helps simplify the moving process.

*A Military ID or proof of veteran status is required at pickup to receive the military discount.

Common Questions