Finding the Best Way to Pay for Your Military Move

Does the military pay for you to move?

Moving is part of life in the military, and with that, there are a lot of expenses to consider. Between paying to ship your belongings and covering personal travel expenses like fuel, hotels or airfare, costs can add up fast.  

Fortunately, the government will pay for the move if you’re completing a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or being discharged from the military. But how and when they pay depends on what type of move you choose. 

Types of military moves

When it comes to handling belongings, there are three basic types of military moves: GAM, PPM and Combination. You’ll need to meet with the local Transportation Office (TO) to determine eligibility. 

For each type of move, you would handle booking any personal travel (hotel, airfare, etc.) and submit receipts for reimbursement. Learn more with this military moving guide. 

Government-Arranged Move (GAM) 

For a GAM, the military handles booking and paying for the move with a government contractor. The contracted moving company will handle packing, loading, transporting things to the new home and unloading. There is no out-of-pocket expense for moving belongings, but you also have no control over the timeline. 

Personally Procured Move (PPM) 

For a PPM, formerly known as a DITY (Do-It-Yourself) Move, you book and pay for moving services upfront and submit receipts for reimbursement.  

With this option, you can be reimbursed for up to 100% of the cost the government would have spent on the move. That means you can keep the difference if the move is less expensive! 

It’s important to choose a service like U-Pack® that is familiar with military moves to get the required weight tickets and receipts for reimbursement. 

Combination move 

If you want the military to move only some belongings, you can opt for a combination move. The government would move some things, and you would move the rest.  

With this option, you would only pay for the PPM portion upfront and get reimbursed. 

Ways to pay for PPM expenses 

When you choose a PPM, you must cover multiple expenses while waiting for reimbursement. Before making arrangements, it’s helpful to use a military moving calculator to set a budget.  

Typically, the most expensive portion of the move is transporting belongings out of state. Here are some ways to pay for those expenses. 

1. Get an advance from the military 

The military will give you an advance to cover personal expenses like hotel and food while traveling for your PCS. You can also request an advance to cover PPM expenses — typically up to 60% of the expected cost. 

Many service members are also eligible for a Dislocation Allowance (DLA), a tax-free lump sum payment intended to help offset moving costs.  

Check with the TO while setting up the PPM to see if you qualify for the advance payment and the DLA. 

2. Use a Government Travel Credit Card (GTCC)

Active-duty military personnel with access to a GTCC can use it for a PPM. Charge authorized travel and relocation expenses to the card and pay it off after reimbursement. The TO can go over specific card regulations and receipt requirements.

3. Withdraw from personal savings 

If you have enough money in savings, you could withdraw the funds to cover moving expenses. Then, after reimbursement, you could pay yourself back. 

4. Request a military loan 

Many banks and credit unions offer loans for military moving expenses. Visit an on-base credit union or a military-friendly lender to apply. 

5. Finance through Affirm when you move with U-Pack  

If you choose U-Pack for a PPM, we offer financing through Affirm. Affirm offers manageable payment options with varying interest rates, which means you’ll pay less upfront. You can then pay back the loan after you get reimbursed.  

6. Personal credit card 

If you have a personal credit card with a low interest rate, you could use it to charge travel expenses and then pay off the card with the reimbursement check. Be sure to consider interest rates and your ability to make payments until the reimbursement arrives before choosing this option. 

Not sure which option is best? Consult your financial advisor for help deciding how to pay for your move. 

FAQs about paying for a military move

Get answers to any questions you may have:

Does the military book and pay for my personal travel?

No. The military will reimburse you for expenses, but you’ll be responsible for booking personal travel such as airfare and hotel. The TO will have information about allowed expenses.

Will the military pay for my spouse to move?

Yes, the military will cover moving expenses for spouses and dependents. Your TO will have information about per diem rates.

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

You usually have up to 45 days to submit receipts and paperwork for reimbursement. From the time you submit the application, reimbursement can typically take 4-6 weeks. Timing depends on different factors, so talk to your TO to get a more accurate timeline.

What should I do if I lose a receipt for my PPM

reimbursement?

If you lose a receipt, contact the TO immediately for instructions. 

Pay for a PPM the easy way with U-Pack

U-Pack is a self-moving service with over 25 years of experience. We’ve handled military moves all over the U.S., and we’re ready to help you. Get a free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. Don’t forget to request weight tickets and ask about military discounts!  

When you’re ready to make a reservation, you can easily apply for Affirm to manage payments. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions, and thank you for your service!