How Much Does the Military Reimburse for Moving?

If you are a military member, you may be eligible for reimbursement for your moving expenses. The amount you can receive varies depending on several factors, including your rank, the distance of your move, and whether you choose to make a Personally Procured Move (PPM) or use the military’s contracted moving service. 

Let’s explore the different types of reimbursement and what you need to know to ensure you get the maximum amount you are entitled to.

Types of Reimbursement

There are two types of reimbursement available to military members for moving expenses:

  • Government-contracted move: If you choose to have a military contract with a moving company to handle your move, you will receive reimbursement for the cost of the move, up to certain limits based on your rank and dependents. The military will cover the cost of packing and shipping your household goods and other expenses, such as transporting your vehicle.
  • Personally Procured Move (PPM): If you choose to handle your move yourself, you can receive reimbursement for the cost of moving, based on a per-pound rate. The PPM program is also called the Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move program. You must submit receipts for your expenses and provide documentation of your move.

Factors That Affect Reimbursement

Several factors can affect the amount of reimbursement you receive for your move:

  • Rank: The higher your rank, the more reimbursement you can receive for your move.
  • Dependents: You may be eligible for additional reimbursement if you have dependents, such as a spouse or children.
  • Distance: The distance of your move will also affect the reimbursement you receive. For example, if you are moving within the same state, you will receive a lower reimbursement than moving across the country.
  • Weight: If you choose to do a PPM, you will be reimbursed based on the weight of your household goods. The rate varies depending on your rank and the distance of your move.

Maximizing Your Reimbursement

To ensure you receive the maximum amount of reimbursement for your move, there are several steps you can take:

  1. Keep detailed records: Whether you use a government-contracted moving service or do a PPM, you must keep detailed records of all your expenses. This includes receipts for packing materials, gas, and lodging and documentation of any damages to your household goods during the move.
  2. Understand your entitlements: Make sure you understand what you are entitled to based on your rank, dependents, and move distance. This will help you determine whether the government-contracted moving service or a PPM is the best option.
  3. Use a reputable moving company: If you choose a government-contracted moving service, research the company and read reviews from other customers. If you choose to do a PPM, use a reputable moving company and get quotes from multiple companies to ensure you are getting a fair price.
  4. Plan: Moving can be stressful, but planning can help reduce the stress and ensure you are prepared for unexpected expenses. This includes budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses and ensuring you have the necessary documentation to submit for reimbursement.

FAQs

Who is eligible for military moving reimbursement?

Active duty military members and their families are eligible for moving reimbursement. The specific entitlements and reimbursements vary based on rank, dependents, and move distance.

How much reimbursement can I receive for my move?

The amount of reimbursement you can receive depends on several factors, including your rank, dependents, and move distance. If you choose to use the government-contracted moving service, you will be reimbursed up to certain limits based on your rank and dependents. If you choose to do a PPM, you will be reimbursed based on a per-pound rate, which also varies based on your rank and the distance of your move.

What expenses are covered by military moving reimbursement?

The government-contracted moving service will cover the cost of packing and shipping your household goods and other expenses, such as transporting your vehicle. If you choose to do a PPM, you can be reimbursed for packing materials, gas, and lodging expenses.

Can I choose my own moving company for a government-contracted move?

No, the military contracts with a specific moving company to handle government-contracted moves. However, you can request a specific delivery date and time.

How do I submit my expenses for reimbursement?

If you use the government-contracted moving service, you will not need to submit receipts for your expenses. If you choose to do a PPM, you will need to submit receipts and documentation of your move, such as weight tickets and a DD Form 1351-2.

When will I receive my reimbursement?

The timeline for receiving reimbursement can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to process and receive your claim. Ensure you keep detailed records and submit your documentation promptly to help expedite the process.

What should I do if I have issues with my reimbursement?

If you need any help with your reimbursement, contact your local finance or transportation office. They can help you navigate the process and address any concerns or questions.

Can I be reimbursed for temporary lodging during my move?

You may be reimbursed for temporary lodging if necessary due to your move. The government-contracted moving service will cover the cost of up to 10 days of temporary lodging for you and your family, while a PPM may reimburse you for lodging expenses based on your travel days.

Will I receive reimbursement for any damaged or lost items during my move?

If any of your items are damaged or lost during a government-contracted move, you may file a claim for reimbursement. The moving company is responsible for repairing or replacing the damaged or lost items. If you choose to do a PPM, you will need to purchase insurance to cover any damage or loss.

What if I need to change my move after it has been scheduled?

If you need to change your move after it has been scheduled, contact your transportation office as soon as possible. They can help you make any necessary changes, such as adjusting your move dates or changing the type of move you have selected. However, remember that changing your move may affect your entitlements and reimbursements.

Conclusion

If you are a military member, you may be eligible for reimbursement for your moving expenses. The amount you can receive depends on several factors, including your rank, dependents, and the distance of your move. 

By keeping detailed records, understanding your entitlements, using a reputable moving company, and planning, you can ensure you receive the maximum reimbursement amount for your move.