Navigating DITY Move Reimbursement: A Guide to Military Compensation

Updated on May 24, 2024: This blog post has been updated to provide enhanced information and insights. We hope you find the new content valuable!

If you’re a military service member or family, you may have heard of a DITY move or PPM move, which stands for Personally Procured Move. This is a type of move where you’re responsible for arranging and paying for your own move, and you’ll be reimbursed by the government for the costs you incur. The reimbursement amount is based on several factors, including the weight of your belongings and the distance of your move.

In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to DITY move reimbursement, including what it is, how it works, and how to navigate the process. We’ll also cover important details such as weight allowances, authorized expenses, and temporary duty assignments. Our goal is to help military service members and their families make informed decisions about their moves and receive the reimbursement they’re entitled to.

This article is targeted towards individuals in the military community who are planning a move, including active duty service members, veterans, and their families. We hope this guide will be a valuable resource for anyone navigating the often complicated process of a DITY move.

Types of Military Moves

Military moves can come in different types, each with its unique features and benefits. Understanding the different types of military moves is crucial in determining which one best suits your specific situation. The Department of Defense (DOD) authorizes and regulates these moves, and they include:

Personal Property and Procured Move (PPM): This move allows you to move your personal belongings and receive reimbursement for it. It is also known as a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move, and you are responsible for hiring your moving company, packing, and transporting your belongings. The government will pay you 95% of what it would have cost them to move your belongings.

Personally Procured Move (PPM): This type of move is similar to PPM but is only applicable if you are moving to a location where the government cannot move your belongings due to restrictions or extreme locations. The government will pay you 100% of what it would have cost them to move your belongings.

Partial DITY moves: This type of move is a combination of PPM and government-arranged moves. You will move some of your belongings, and the government will move the rest. You will receive reimbursement for your PPM portion.

Understanding the different types of military moves can help you choose the best option for your move.

Comparing the Different Types of Military Moves for Military Members with PCS Orders

What are the potential cost-saving benefits of a PPM/DITY move compared to a Full Household Goods Move?

The potential cost-saving benefits of a PPM/DITY move compared to a Full Household Goods Move are significant. By doing the move themselves, military members can save the money that would have been spent on hiring a moving company. Additionally, they may be eligible for reimbursement from the government for their moving expenses, which can further offset the costs. This can be a cost-effective option for military members who prefer to have more control over their move and are willing to handle the logistics themselves.

How does the government’s involvement differ between a Full Household Goods Move and a PPM/DITY move?

In a Full Household Goods Move, the government takes charge of hiring a moving company and managing the entire move process, including packing, transportation, and unloading. In a PPM/DITY move, the government’s involvement is limited to providing reimbursement to the military member for their moving expenses based on a pre-determined rate. The military member is responsible for arranging and executing the move themselves.

What is a Partial PPM/DITY Move and how does it differ from a Full Household Goods Move or a PPM move?

A Partial PPM/DITY Move is a popular choice for military members who want to have more control over some of their more personal items while having the rest of the move taken care of by the government-contracted moving company. In this type of move, the military member can choose to pack and move some of their items themselves, while the government’s contracted company handles the rest. It provides a balance between having control over certain belongings and convenience.

What is a Personally Procured Move (PPM) or Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move and how does it differ from a Full Household Goods Move?

A Personally Procured Move (PPM) or Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move is a type of military move where the military member takes full control of packing up and moving their own items. In this case, the military member can save money that would have been spent on a Full Household Goods Move by doing the move themselves. The military member can either use their own vehicle or rent a moving truck to transport their belongings.

What is a Full Household Goods Move (HHG) and how does it work?

A Full Household Goods Move is a type of military move where the government takes charge of hiring a company to pack, transport, and unload the military member’s items. The government is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the entire move process.

Understanding Partial PPM/DITY Move

A PPM or Partial DITY move is a relocation option that allows you to transport some of your household goods while the remaining portion is moved by a government-selected mover. This type of move is convenient because it splits your weight allowance between your personal move and the government move.

To ensure safety and compliance, the transportation office will provide you with a list of prohibited items that cannot be moved. These items may include construction equipment, boats, airplanes, and other items that are typically added to increase the weight of the move for potential financial benefits.

When opting for a partial PPM or DITY move, you will be required to weigh your vehicle both when it is empty and when it is fully loaded, in order to get an accurate quote. Similar to a full DITY move, you will need to keep track of your fuel and toll receipts, weight tickets, and complete a travel claim with your orders, which will need to be submitted to the transportation office for reimbursement.

One advantage of a partial PPM/DITY move is that it allows you some access to your household items throughout your trip. This can be helpful for getting settled in more quickly while you wait for the remainder of your household goods or your base housing assignment.

In summary, a partial PPM/DITY move offers the option to move a portion of your household goods on your own while the government handles the rest. It requires providing necessary documentation for reimbursement and allows for greater convenience and flexibility during the relocation process.

What are some expert tips for planning a Partial DITY Move?

Here are some expert tips to help you plan your Partial DITY Move:

1. Ensure vehicle readiness: Before your move, make sure your vehicle has a current safety and readiness inspection. This will help avoid any unexpected issues during your trip.
2. Check vehicle capacity: Confirm that the items you plan to transport will fit within your vehicle. It’s essential to assess your vehicle’s capacity to prevent any difficulties or frustrations on moving day.
3. Pack essential items strategically: When packing your car, make sure to place essential items in an easily accessible and well-organized manner. This will save you time and effort when you need to locate and use these items during your journey.
4. Know covered moving expenses: Research what type of moving expenses the government will cover for your move. Understanding the eligible expenses beforehand will help you plan and budget more effectively.
5. Obtain certified weight tickets: For your household goods, make sure to have certified vehicle scale weight tickets for both empty and full loads. These weight tickets are crucial for calculating your reimbursement accurately.
6. Keep track of road expenses: Save receipts for fuel or tolls during your trip. These receipts will allow you to keep a record of your road expenses, which you’ll need for your claim submission.
7. Submit relevant paperwork promptly: After your Partial DITY Move, remember to submit your claim and all relevant paperwork within 45 days. This ensures a smooth and timely reimbursement process.
8. Gather necessary documents: When visiting your new duty station’s transportation office, bring all required documents, including weight tickets, DD Form 2278, PPM Move Certification, copy of PCS orders, receipts, advance paperwork, and rental equipment contract (if applicable). Having everything prepared will expedite the administrative procedures.

How can military members apply for a Partial DITY Move?

To apply for a Partial DITY Move in the military, there are a few key steps that need to be followed. Firstly, once you receive your orders and have made a decision regarding the type of move you prefer, it is crucial to get in touch with your transportation office. They will provide you with the necessary guidance and assistance throughout the process.

To officially request a Partial DITY move, you will be required to complete the DD Form 2278, also known as the Application for DITY (Do-It-Yourself) Move and Counseling Checklist. This form serves as your formal application and provides important information about your move.

In addition to the application form, there are several supporting documents that you should have readily available. These documents include a copy of your orders, Form 1038 Advance of Funds Application (if you require an advance of funds), a copy of your trailer registration (in case you are using a personally owned trailer), a rental agreement (if you plan to use a rented trailer or moving truck), and a prohibited items list.

By ensuring that you have all the necessary paperwork completed and relevant documents prepared, you can effectively apply for a Partial DITY Move. It is worth noting that your transportation office will be able to offer further guidance and answer any specific questions you may have during the application process.

Submitting a PPM Move Claim

After completing your PPM move, it’s time to submit a claim for reimbursement. The government will pay you based on the weight of your personal property and the distance of your move. To receive reimbursement, you will need to keep all receipts and records of your move.

Authorized expenses for PPM moves include packing material, rental trucks, and storage fees. However, it’s important to note that you won’t be reimbursed for any expenses that exceed the estimated cost of your move.

Once your move is complete, you will need to complete the DD Form 2278, also known as the “Application for Move and Counseling Checklist.” This form verifies that you completed your move and includes your weight tickets, expenses, and estimated cost.

After completing the DD Form 2278, you will need to submit a travel voucher to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). The voucher will include your expenses, weight allowances, and any incentive pay you may be entitled to. It’s important to note that submitting your claim promptly can ensure that you receive your reimbursement quickly.

DITY Moves and Their Benefits

If you prefer to have more control over your move, a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move might be the best option for you. With a DITY move, you are responsible for the entire process of moving your personal belongings to your new duty station. This includes packing your items, renting and driving a moving truck or trailer, and unloading and unpacking your items at your destination.

The benefits of a DITY move include more flexibility and control over the move. You can choose the specific dates and times for your move and decide which items you want to bring with you. Additionally, DITY moves can offer significant cost savings. You can save money by packing your own items and driving them yourself, rather than hiring a moving company.

It’s important to keep in mind that DITY moves can also come with their own set of challenges, such as the need for packing materials and the logistics of driving a large vehicle. However, if you are up for the challenge and want to save money on your move, a DITY move could be a great option for you.

Planning for a DITY Move

When preparing for a DITY move, it’s essential to take a structured approach to ensure a smooth transition. The following are some key considerations to help you plan for your move.

Preparing for a DITY Move:

Before you begin your move, it’s important to have a solid plan in place. This includes creating a checklist of all the necessary items and tasks to ensure you don’t miss anything critical. Some key items to include on your checklist are:

• Securing transportation, such as a rental truck or hiring a moving company
• Packing and labeling all items
• Obtaining the necessary permits or insurance
• Coordinating with the moving company or rental truck for pickup and delivery dates
• Understanding weight allowances and empty weight requirements

Choosing a Moving Company or Rental Truck:

One of the key decisions you’ll need to make when planning a DITY move is whether to hire a moving company or rent a truck. Both options have their benefits, and it’s essential to choose the one that best meets your needs.

If you opt to hire a moving company, be sure to research different companies and obtain quotes to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Check the company’s reviews, ratings, and reputation to ensure they’re reliable and trustworthy.

If you choose to rent a truck, consider factors such as the size of the truck, your budget, and the distance of your move. It’s important to reserve your truck well in advance to ensure availability on your desired moving dates.

Understanding Weight Tickets and Empty Weight:

One of the most crucial aspects of a DITY move is understanding weight tickets and empty weight requirements. You’ll need to obtain weight tickets before and after your move to calculate your reimbursement. It’s essential to understand the empty weight of your vehicle before loading it, as this weight will be subtracted from the total weight of your vehicle with your items loaded.

In conclusion, planning for a DITY move requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By following these tips and creating a solid plan, you can ensure a successful move and maximize your reimbursement.

What should military members do during their DITY move to keep track of road expenses?

During their DITY move, military members should diligently keep track of their road expenses. It is advisable to save all receipts for fuel or tolls incurred along the way. These receipts will serve as important documentation to accurately account for the expenses related to traveling by road. Additionally, it is crucial to be mindful of the expenses that can accumulate quickly, such as those for coffee, snacks, and fast food. By having a systematic approach to recording and saving these expenses, military members can effectively keep track of their road expenditures during their DITY move.

Submitting a DITY Move Claim

If you decide to conduct a DITY move, it is important to know how to properly submit a claim for reimbursement. Here are the steps to follow:

What documents and paperwork should be submitted for reimbursement after a Partial DITY Move?

To ensure reimbursement after a Partial DITY Move, you need to submit a variety of documents and paperwork. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you should have:

1. Orders and Decision: Once you receive your orders and have decided on the type of move you want, it’s important to contact your transportation office to initiate the process.
2. DD Form 2278: Fill out DD Form 2278, also known as the Application for DITY (Do-It-Yourself) Move and Counseling Checklist, to request a Partial DITY move.
3. Copy of Orders: Keep a copy of your orders for submission with your claim.
4. Form 1038 Advance of Funds Application (if applicable): If you require an advance in funds, complete Form 1038 Advance of Funds Application along with your claim.
5. Trailer Registration (if applicable): If you plan to use your personally owned trailer for the move, have a copy of the trailer registration handy.
6. Rental Agreement (if applicable): If you intend to use a rented trailer or moving truck, retain a copy of the rental agreement for submission.
7. Prohibited Items List: Familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items and ensure you comply with it during your move.
8. Companies of Empty and Loaded Weight Tickets: Ensure you have the weight tickets issued by the moving company, both when the vehicle is empty and when it is loaded.
9. PPM Move Certification: Obtain the PPM (Personally Procured Move) Move Certification, which verifies that you have completed the move.
10. All Receipts: Keep track of all receipts related to your move, including fuel costs, packing supplies, and any other relevant expenses.
11. All Advance Paperwork: If you received an advance in funds, include all the necessary paperwork related to the advance with your claim.
12. Rental Equipment Contract (if applicable): If you have rented any equipment for your move, retain the rental equipment contract for submission.

Remember that all your claims and supporting paperwork must be submitted within 45 days. Missing this deadline will result in the loss of reimbursement, so it’s crucial to adhere to the timeline. To submit your claim, visit the transportation office at your new duty station and ensure you bring all the aforementioned documents and paperwork with you.

Authorized Expenses for DITY Moves:

There are several expenses that are authorized for reimbursement during a DITY move, including:

1. Truck rental fees
2. Fuel costs
3. Packing materials
4. Insurance costs
5. Rental of moving equipment
6. Storage costs

Completing the DD Form 1351-2:

The DD Form 1351-2 is a detailed form that requires accurate information in order to receive reimbursement. It is important to fill out all sections of the form, including:

1. Personal information: Fill out your name, rank, and contact information.
2. Moving information: Provide details on the origin and destination of your move, as well as the date of your move.
3. Expense information: Fill out all expenses related to your move, including truck rental fees, fuel costs, and packing materials.
4. Certification: Sign and date the form to certify that all information is accurate.

Submitting a Travel Voucher:

After submitting your DD Form 1351-2, you will also need to submit a travel voucher to receive payment for your move. This voucher should include your banking information and any other necessary information for payment.

Other Moving Assistance Programs

In addition to PPM and DITY moves, there are other moving assistance programs available for military personnel. These programs can provide financial support for expenses related to the move.

One such program is Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE), which can provide reimbursement for lodging expenses incurred during the move. This can include expenses for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses. The reimbursement amount varies depending on the location and the length of stay, but it can be a helpful option for military families who are in the process of moving.

Another program is incentive pay, which can provide financial assistance to military members who are required to move frequently. This pay is designed to offset the costs associated with frequent moves, such as the costs of packing and moving household goods, and can be a valuable resource for military families.

Overall, there are several programs available to assist military personnel with the costs associated with moving. By taking advantage of these programs, military families can ease the financial burden of a move and focus on settling into their new home.

Conclusion

In this article, we have covered the different types of military moves, including PPM and DITY moves, as well as the benefits and eligibility requirements for each. We also discussed how to plan for a move and submit a reimbursement claim. It’s crucial for military members to understand their entitlements when it comes to moving, and to take advantage of the available resources to make the process as smooth as possible. If you need additional information, be sure to consult with your installation transportation office or military personnel office. By being informed and prepared, military members can make their moves a less stressful experience.