How To Save More Money on Your Next PCS Move

Receiving a permanent change of station (PCS) order is common in the military, but that doesn’t make it any easier. And while you can’t opt out of PCS orders, you do have control over how your move happens.

Whether you’re moving across the state or across the country, you have options for how your belongings get there. You can choose to let the government handle your relocation or manage the scheduling services and labor yourself. If you choose to handle the move yourself, you also have the chance to make some extra money. You just have to get your move to cost less than what the government is willing to reimburse you.

To help you compare your moving options and save the most money on your PCS move, we’ve compiled all the key information and broken it down into a simple-to-use guide.

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Understanding a PCS Move

A permanent change of station (PCS) is when service members relocate to a new duty station for an extended period. It’s different from a temporary duty assignment (TDY), which is short-term travel for training or special missions. While deployments can involve overseas operations in specific regions, a PCS means you are relocating your life and home to a new duty station for a longer assignment.

 

“Most PCS moves follow an 8 to 12 week timeline. As soon as you receive orders, schedule your counseling session and register in DPS. This system is where you’ll arrange government shipments or declare a PPM.”

 

Most active-duty members can expect a PCS every 2 to 4 years, but timelines vary by branch and assignment. Orders typically arrive with a few months’ notice, giving families time to plan housing, schools, and transportation. Because PCS moves are routine, the military provides allowances and options to help offset costs.

Eligibility for a PCS move includes active-duty members, certain federal employees, and their authorized dependents. Moves can be within the continental United States (CONUS) or outside the continental United States (OCONUS). CONUS moves often mean relocating to another state or base. OCONUS moves involve international relocation, which adds extra steps like passports, customs, and shipping household goods overseas.

Types of Military Moves and Terminology

Term	Meaning
PCS	A permanent change of station means you’re being assigned to a new duty station. It involves relocating yourself, your family, and all of your belongings to a new place.
TDY	Despite the name, a temporary duty assignment sometimes requires relocating for several months at a time. However, your permanent duty station doesn’t change.
CONUS	Continental United States refers to the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. It does not include Alaska or Hawaii.
OCONUS	Outside the continental United States refers to everywhere else in the world.

Types of PCS Moves Explained

If you receive PCS orders, you have a deadline to move. Fortunately, you don’t have to cover the cost entirely on your own. The military provides several relocation assistance options.

Government-Arranged Move (HHG Move)

In a Household Goods (HHG) move, the military takes the lead. A Transportation Service Provider (TSP) handles the loading and transport of your household goods. Your weight allowance for this option depends on your rank and whether you have dependents. It’s important to stay within these limits, as you may have to pay out of pocket if your shipment is over the allowed weight.

The biggest benefit of an HHG move is that it requires very little upfront cost or physical labor from you. However, you do give up a lot of control. You can’t choose the specific moving company or the exact delivery date. While it’s the most hands-off option, many families find the lack of flexibility and the risk of damaged items to be a drawback.

Personally Procured Move (PPM / DITY Move)

A Personally Procured Move (PPM), often called a DITY move, allows you to handle the move yourself. The government compensates you for 100% of what it would have cost them to move you, which can often result in extra cash in your pocket if you stay under budget.

This option is perfect for those who want total control over their timeline and belongings. You can even choose a Full PPM or a Partial PPM depending on your needs. Just remember that you must keep every receipt and document. While you can save money, the downside is the added responsibility. You’re in charge of every detail, from booking the truck to organizing all the paperwork. Thankfully, you can use tools like our platform to find labor-only movers who can load your rental truck, helping streamline some of the moving process.

Mixed PCS Moves (Partial PPM)

A Partial PPM is often the sweet spot for military families. In this scenario, the government moves the bulk of your furniture, but you move a portion of your belongings yourself in your own car. This is useful for transporting high-value items, professional gear, or things you’ll need right away.

The main advantage is flexibility. You get the convenience of a government move for the heavy stuff while ensuring your most important items stay with you. Plus, you still receive a government payment for the weight you transport yourself. The only real drawback is that you have to manage two separate moving processes at once.

DLA Reimbursement

Dislocation Allowance (DLA) is a specific payment intended to help cover the miscellaneous expenses of relocating. Think of it as a buffer for those hidden/extra costs, like deposits and utility hookup fees. It’s not tied to the weight of your household goods but rather to the fact that you’re moving your household to a new duty station.

DLA is especially helpful during the first few weeks at a new station when expenses tend to pile up quickly. Most service members are eligible, but you usually have to apply for it through your finance office.

Still confused? Here’s a handy graphic that shows you the differences:

Choosing the Right Moving Option for Your PCS

The right PCS moving option often depends on time, control, complexity, and family size. If you have a large household, you can benefit from an HHG move because all the logistics of packing and shipping are handled for you. Smaller families or individuals may prefer the flexibility of a PPM, especially if they want to keep essentials close or move on their own schedule.

HHG moves reduce upfront costs and simplify planning, but they can mean less control over timing and delivery. PPMs, on the other hand, give you full control and the chance to save money if you spend less than the reimbursement. However, you’ll have to take care of most of the logistics, like tracking receipts and managing transportation.

That’s where outside help comes in. Hiring labor-only movers through our platform makes sense if you’re already renting a truck or getting a container for your move. They’ll load and unload while you handle the driving and other transportation, allowing you to enjoy the cost benefits of a PPM without the extra effort.

Move Option	Pros	Cons	Best For
HHG (Government)	No upfront cost, shipping handled by TSP	Less control over your schedule, possible delays, and limited flexibility	Larger households or those who want a “hands-off” move
PPM (Full DIY)	Full control, flexible timing, potential to earn money if costs are lower than reimbursement	Requires receipts, weight tickets, and planning	Service members looking to save money or those with fewer belongings
Partial PPM (Hybrid)	Balance of control and convenience, quick access to essentials, flexibility	Extra paperwork, coordination with both TSP and self-move	Families with high-value items or professional gear they want to keep close

Planning Your PCS Move

A PCS move takes planning, but breaking it into steps makes it easier. Start early, stay organized, and you’ll avoid last-minute surprises.

Key Terms and Acronyms Related to PCS Moves

Before diving into the details, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some common terms used when discussing PCS moves:

Term	Meaning
Unaccompanied baggage	The Department of Defense allows you to send a small shipment of your goods ahead, which is referred to as unaccompanied baggage. It usually consists of clothes, bedding, and basic household essentials.
TLE reimbursement	TLE reimbursement covers your temporary lodging expenses, such as hotel bills, while you travel to your PCS destination.
POC reimbursement	If you’re traveling in your own car, you may qualify for privately owned conveyance (POC) reimbursement to cover gas expenses. As of 2025, the rate is $0.21 per mile of PCS travel.
DLA reimbursement	Dislocation allowance (DLA) reimbursement helps offset other relocation expenses not specified in other categories.
Professional gear	Your uniforms, medals, and other professional gear don’t count against your overall weight allowance. This includes any ceremonial uniform items, any job-specific equipment, or training manuals.
Non-temporary storage	Sometimes, you need to leave your items in long-term storage. This is most common if you’re moving overseas and will have limited room for your items, or it’s impractical to ship all of them.
Privately owned vehicle	This refers to your personal car.

Reading and Verifying Your PCS Orders

Your PCS orders are the foundation of your move. Read them carefully to confirm dates, entitlements, and your new duty station. Double-check details like dependents listed and authorized weight limits. If something looks off, contact your personnel office right away.

Creating a PCS Timeline and Checklist

Most PCS moves follow an 8 to 12 week timeline. As soon as you receive orders, schedule your counseling session and register in DPS. This system is where you’ll arrange government shipments or declare a PPM.

Housing is another key step. Whether you’re moving on base or off, start researching availability as soon as possible. Factor in school zones, commute times, and local rules. If you’re renting, budget for deposits and utility setup. This is also the time to compare prices for rental trucks and labor if you choose a PPM.

Keep in mind that military schedules can change, and shipments may be delayed, so build buffer time into your plan and keep backup options ready. You can also follow this simple checklist to stay on schedule:

• 12 weeks out: Receive orders and attend a transition briefing.
• 10 weeks out: Decide on a move type (HHG, PPM, or Mixed).
• 8 weeks out: Register in DPS, research housing, and schedule your moving dates.
• 6 weeks out: Begin sorting and downsizing household items.
• 4 weeks out: Finalize your housing plans and gather important records.
• 2 weeks out: Confirm all bookings and start packing.
• 1 week out: Pack a “first-night” box, prepare travel documents, and confirm lodging.

Having a plan makes the whole process feel much smaller. Even if your dates shift, you will have your paperwork and boxes ready to go. You can also use this graphic to see the overview of all the steps you need to take for a PCS move:

PCS Moving Costs and Allowances

PCS moves come with unique costs, but the military provides allowances to help offset them. Knowing what’s covered and what isn’t can save you stress and money.

What the Military Covers vs Out-of-Pocket Costs

The military aims to cover the most essential parts of your move. If you choose a government move, they pay the moving company directly. If you choose a PPM, they reimburse you based on the weight of your goods. However, you are responsible for any costs that go over your weight limit or aren’t on the “approved” list, like deposits, utility setup fees, or pet travel expenses.

Commonly covered items include:

• Loading and shipping of household goods up to your weight limit.
• Mileage for up to 2 personal vehicles.
• Per diem for meals and lodging while you are traveling.
• Shipping 1 vehicle for overseas moves.

Dislocation Allowance (DLA) and Travel Pay

Dislocation Allowance (DLA) is a flat payment meant to help with the “hidden” costs of moving. It helps pay for things like utility deposits or new items for your home. You usually receive this after you file your final travel claim.

Travel pay includes “MALT,” which is a set rate per mile for driving your own car. You also get a daily allowance for food and lodging during your trip.

Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE/TLA)

Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) applies to moves within the continental U.S. It reimburses short-term lodging and meals while waiting for housing.

TLA is for overseas moves and can last much longer. It helps cover hotel stays and meals until you find a permanent place to live. Always keep your itemized hotel receipts to make sure you get paid back.

Common PCS Expenses People Underestimate

Many people forget about the small costs that add up quickly. You might need to buy new cleaning supplies, curtains, or food to restock your pantry. If you are moving a pet, you will have to pay for their travel and vet fees out of pocket.

 

“HHG moves reduce upfront costs and simplify planning, but they can mean less control over timing and delivery. PPMs, on the other hand, give you full control and the chance to save money if you spend less than the reimbursement.”

 

Another common cost is wear and tear on your car during a long drive. While the military pays for gas through mileage rates, they don’t cover oil changes or new tires. Setting aside a small “move fund” can help you handle these surprises without stress.

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Packing and Preparing for a PCS Move

Smart packing and preparation make your PCS smoother, protect your belongings, and help you stay within weight limits. Here are the steps to take to make sure everything goes well from the start.

What the Military Will and Won’t Pack

Government movers follow strict rules about what they can put on their trucks. While they handle most furniture and household goods, they will not touch hazardous or live items. Use the table below to see what you should plan to move yourself.

The Military Will Pack	The Military Will NOT Pack
Motorcycles and dirt bikes (CONUS)	Cars and trucks (for moves within the U.S.)
Large maintenance items such as lawn mowers (but make sure they’re drained of fuel beforehand)	Propane tanks, fertilizers, and fuel cans
Pots, pans, and unopened liquids	Perishable food and open cleaning supplies
Unloaded firearms (with proper paperwork)	Ammunition and explosives
Furniture and household appliances	Pets, plants, and hazardous chemicals

Decluttering Before a PCS

Your rank determines your weight allowance, and going over that limit can lead to expensive fees. You can confirm your authorized weight in your PCS orders or through your transportation office before moving day.

This weight limit makes downsizing the secret to a smooth move. As you’re packing, look at every room and decide what to keep and what to sell or donate instead. Typically, items you haven’t used in a year are good candidates for getting rid of, or anything you know won’t fit in your new home. Getting rid of heavy, unneeded furniture now can save you a lot of money and stress during delivery.

PCS Inventory and Documentation Tips

While good movers typically create their own inventories, you shouldn’t rely on their list alone. Create your own by taking photos or videos of every room and high-value items. This makes filing a claim much easier if something breaks or gets lost. Also, keep your most important documents, like birth certificates and medical records, in a separate folder that stays with you.

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Budgeting Tips for PCS Moves

PCS moves can get expensive fast, but a smart budget helps you stay in control. With a little planning, you can avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your allowances.

• Track every expense daily: Keep a dedicated folder or app for every receipt, including gas, meals, and packing tape. Small costs add up quickly, and having clear records helps you claim everything you’re eligible for when you file your final travel claim.
• Avoid common reimbursement pitfalls: Don’t pay for unauthorized extras like professional house cleaning or excessive weight. Staying under your weight limit and avoiding luxury add-ons keeps you from paying out of pocket for things the military won’t cover.
• Book your movers early: Moving companies and truck rentals use dynamic pricing, meaning rates go up as time slots fill up. Booking early helps secure lower rates, and you can use our platform to compare reviews and prices for various dates.
• Maximize your DLA: Use your Dislocation Allowance for deposits, utilities, or temporary lodging. Plan ahead so this allowance covers the highest upfront costs.

Building a solid budget helps you focus on your family instead of your bank account. With clear records and smart planning, you’ll stretch your PCS allowances further and reduce stress along the way.

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Common PCS Moving Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most organized military families can run into trouble during a PCS move. Avoiding these mistakes will save you time and money.

• Missing DPS deadlines: Waiting too long to register your move in the Defense Personal Property System can limit your choice of dates. Aim to start the process as soon as you have your official orders.
• Not documenting damage: If you find broken items at delivery, note them immediately on the mover’s forms. Make sure to take “before” and “after” photos.
• Underestimating packing time: Packing always takes longer than you think. Start sorting your home weeks early to avoid a last-minute rush before the movers arrive.
• Ignoring storage rules: The military has specific rules for “Storage-in-Transit” (SIT). Make sure you understand how long your items can stay in storage before you have to pay out of pocket.
• Failing to budget for delays: Move dates can shift without notice. Always keep an emergency fund to cover extra hotel nights or meals if your shipment is delayed.

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Next Steps: Support for Your Military Move

Every PCS move comes with challenges, but you don’t have to handle them alone. With clear planning and the right support, your transition can be smoother and less stressful.

We’ve gathered more tips, guides, and resources to help you through every stage of your PCS. Explore our additional military move articles and resources to find practical advice designed to make your move easier.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get reimbursed for a PPM/DITY move?

To get reimbursed for a PPM/DITY move, you must start with counseling and approval from your Transportation Office. If you skip this step and handle the move yourself, you may not be eligible for reimbursement.

During your move, you also need to track the weight of your shipment. This means getting an empty truck weight ticket at your origin and full truck weights at both your origin and final destination.

Then, submit your claim to the transportation office at your new duty station within 45 days. Ensure your application includes the DD Form 2278, DD Form 1351-2, certified weight tickets, receipts for all moving expenses, and your most current PCS orders.

How long does it take to get reimbursed for a PPM move?

Most people receive their payment 4 to 8 weeks after submitting a complete claim. To avoid delays, make sure your weight tickets and receipts are easy to read. Submitting your paperwork through the military’s online system right after you arrive will help you get paid much faster.

How can I save the most money with a PPM/DITY move?

You can save the most by handling as much of the labor as possible for your move. However, this isn’t always practical. You can still find good deals on moving labor to help you load and unload your truck. Shop around for local labor-only movers at your old and new homes to get the best deals.

What is DD Form 2278, and how do I fill it out for my PPM/DITY move?

DD Form 2278 is the Application for Do It Yourself Move and Counseling Checklist. It must be completed correctly and submitted if you want to be reimbursed for your move. You fill this form out with your designated counselor from your assigned Transportation Office or Personal Property Office before moving. Doing so confirms that you understand the rules for the PPM program.

What’s the easiest way to track moving expenses?

The best way is to use a simple smartphone app or a digital spreadsheet. Take a photo of every receipt as soon as you get it. This prevents lost papers and makes it easy to upload documents later. Keeping a dedicated folder for your physical receipts is also a smart backup.

Can I use my DLA to cover pet transport?

You can use your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) for any move-related cost, including pet travel. However, the military now offers a separate pet reimbursement. You can claim up to $550 for moves within the United States. This specific fund is often a better choice than using your general DLA money.

When should I choose an HHG move over a PPM to save money?

An HHG move is better if you have very heavy furniture that would require a large, expensive rental truck. It’s also the safest choice for short-notice orders or frequent relocations, as the military covers all upfront costs. This prevents you from draining your savings while waiting for reimbursement.

Can you claim a PCS move on your taxes?

Active-duty service members can still deduct some moving expenses if the move is due to a military order. You can typically deduct costs that the government didn’t reimburse. Be sure to use IRS Form 3903 and keep all your records.