What Is a Personally Procured Move?
A Personally Procured Move (PPM), sometimes called a “Do-It-Yourself” move, allows service members to take full control of relocating their household goods. Instead of relying on a government-contracted mover, you plan the logistics, handle packing, and arrange transportation. The government reimburses you—usually up to 100 % of what it would have spent on a Household Goods (HHG) move.
For some families, this control feels empowering and even profitable. For others, it can quickly become overwhelming. Understanding where you fall on that spectrum is the key to making the right decision.
How a PPM Works
Under a PPM, families can rent trucks, trailers, or portable containers, or even hire their own moving crews. The service member submits receipts and certified weight tickets at the end of the move for reimbursement. Payment can come upfront (partial advance) or after completion.
The benefit is flexibility: you set the timeline, decide how carefully items are handled, and maintain custody of your belongings. But you also shoulder the responsibility if anything goes wrong.
Hidden Costs of a PPM
While a PPM can look like a financial win, hidden costs often change the equation:
- Truck rental and fuel can exceed expectations, especially for cross-country moves.
- Packing supplies—boxes, bubble wrap, and tape—come out of pocket.
- Labor for loading and unloading reduces potential savings.
- Lost leave days often go toward managing the move.
- Risk of damage is higher since you may not have full protection or claims support.
These are manageable for some families but burdensome for others—especially those with small children, large households, or heavy furniture.
PPM vs. HHG (Government-Arranged Move)
| Factor | PPM (Do-It-Yourself) | HHG Move (Government-Arranged) |
| Control | High—pack, schedule, and manage | Low—contractor handles everything |
| Convenience | Low—family plans and executes | High—outsourced to professionals |
| Risk | Higher—family responsible | Lower—claims processed through movers |
| Reimbursement | 100 % under legacy system | Full cost covered by military |
| Best For | Organized, flexible families who want control or live close to their next duty station | Families with limited time, young kids, or long-distance PCS |
Who Benefits from a PPM?
- Good fit for PPM: Families with access to trucks, friends or family who can help, and those who prefer control over their belongings. Short-distance moves also make PPM more cost-effective and less stressful.
- Not ideal for PPM: Families with young children, heavy or specialized items, long-distance relocations, or those already stretched thin by PCS demands. For them, a full HHG move is usually more practical.
What Just Changed: DoD Cancels the GHC Contract
In June 2025, the Department of Defense canceled its Global Household Goods Contract (GHC) with HomeSafe Alliance after repeated performance failures. The $17.9 billion contract was designed to streamline all PCS moves under one provider but was plagued by missed pickups, broken shipments, and low industry participation.
With GHC canceled, the DoD has returned to the legacy system and created a Permanent Change of Station Joint Task Force to oversee improvements. Families now receive 100 % reimbursement rates for PPMs under the legacy system—a boost from the reduced rates offered under GHC.
What This Means for Military Families
- Back to Familiar Systems: Moves will now run under the legacy Defense Personal Property Program (DPS/Tender of Service). While imperfect, this system is more predictable than the troubled GHC.
- More Attractive PPM Reimbursement: With 100 % reimbursement restored, PPMs are more financially appealing.
- PCS Task Force in Place: Dedicated leadership and a 24/7 call center are meant to improve customer service during this transition.
- Reform Ahead: Long-term improvements are expected by September 2025, with new policies to stabilize the system.
Final Thoughts as a Real Estate Professional
A smooth move matters for more than just relocation—it can shape your home buying or selling experience. Here’s the takeaway:
- Choose PPM if your family is organized, has resources to handle logistics, or wants more financial control.
- Choose HHG if you need peace of mind, time to focus on family, or less physical and emotional strain.
Both paths are valid, but the “right” choice depends on your unique situation. By understanding the pros and cons, you can align your PCS strategy with your household’s needs and make your next move—literally and figuratively—a successful one.
