When you work in public service, relocation often comes with the job. Whether you’ve been assigned to a new agency office, promoted into a new district, or transferred across the country, relocating as a government employee isn’t a small task. 

It’s not just about changing your address, but it’s about navigating federal policies, timelines, reimbursement procedures, and the needs of your family, all at once.

That’s where ARC Relocation comes in. With years of experience supporting federal agencies, civilian employees, and contractors, our government relocation program is built to make every move easier, faster, and more cost-efficient.

What Is ARC’s Government Relocation Program?

ARC’s government relocation services are designed specifically for federal employees and government agencies that need professional support throughout the moving process. Whether you’re relocating within the U.S. or accepting an overseas assignment, our team handles the logistics, paperwork, and coordination needed to ensure your transition is seamless.

Government moves are unique, and they often require adherence to federal travel regulations, involve multiple government stakeholders, and include detailed reimbursement rules under the FTR (Federal Travel Regulation). You don’t have time for trial and error. You need a partner who already knows how it works.

We make it easier to move your people, so they can focus on their work instead of the stress of moving.

Why Government Moves Require a Different Approach

Federal employees are frequently relocated under tight deadlines, and many don’t have the flexibility or support that private sector relocations offer. At the same time, federal policies and budget constraints require careful coordination.

You might be moving to a GS-graded post in a new state. Or relocating internationally under a federal assignment contract. Either way, there’s a lot on your plate.

That’s why government relocation assistance from ARC goes beyond booking a truck. We work directly with HR departments, GSA contracting officers, and transferees to streamline every aspect of the move, including authorization compliance, budget tracking, and destination support.

We’re not just moving boxes. We’re moving careers, families, and futures. Here are some of the benefits of partnering with ARC:

H3: Full-Service Government Relocation Support

ARC isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Our services are customizable depending on your agency’s requirements and your employees’ needs. When you work with us, here’s what we can help coordinate:

• Household goods shipments through trusted van lines with domestic and international capacity
• Temporary housing coordination for short- and long-term stays
• Real estate support, including buying, selling, or rental assistance
• Expense tracking and FTR-compliant reporting for reimbursement and auditing
• Policy consulting for agency HR or program managers building relocation plans
• Spouse job search support and school relocation guidance when needed
• International relocation services for overseas assignments, including customs clearance, cultural support, and visa coordination

Whether your employee is a field agent, administrative lead, or mission-critical specialist, ARC’s government moving assistance ensures they’re set up for success.

Real Estate Help and Realtor Rebates for Federal Employees

Housing is often the most complicated part of any relocation. That’s why ARC offers access to our realtor rebate program for qualifying federal employees.

When you work with one of our referred agents to buy or sell a home, you get cash back after closing, sometimes totaling thousands of dollars. This rebate comes at no cost to the employee or agency. It’s a practical way to help offset moving expenses or closing costs, especially in higher-cost housing markets.

Our agents are experienced in federal employee relocation, meaning they understand the timelines, urgency, and local market conditions that affect your move.

Trusted by Federal Agencies Nationwide

ARC Relocation works with numerous federal agencies under GSA-approved contracts. From DHS and DOJ to EPA and FEMA, we’ve supported thousands of government moving cases across all 50 states  and around the world.

Our team understands the importance of compliance, efficiency, and transparency. We’re not just a relocation vendor, but we’re a strategic partner to agency leadership and HR.

Whether your agency manages relocations internally or outsources the entire process, ARC provides the tools and support to get it done the right way.

Government Relocation Services: Frequently Asked Questions

How is government relocation different from corporate relocation services?

Government relocations must comply with strict federal regulations, including budget caps, reimbursement rules, and security guidelines. Corporate moves may offer more flexibility. ARC handles both but brings special expertise in the federal space.

Do I qualify for relocation assistance if I’m a contractor, not a direct federal employee?

In many cases, yes,  depending on the terms of your employment agreement and agency policies. ARC works with both direct employees and contractors, so we can walk you through eligibility.

Does ARC handle international relocation?

Yes. Our international relocation team helps coordinate overseas shipping, destination services, customs clearance, and more. We support both permanent and temporary foreign assignments under federal contracts.

Can ARC help if I’m renting, not buying?

Absolutely. We can assist with short-term and long-term rental searches, lease negotiations, and provide area orientation tools to help you settle in smoothly.

What kind of reporting or compliance support does ARC offer?

Our system includes FTR-compliant expense reporting, budget tracking, and customizable dashboards for HR or relocation program managers.

Can ARC assist with agency-wide relocation programs, not just individual moves?

Yes. ARC partners with federal agencies to design and manage scalable relocation programs. Whether you’re relocating a single executive or coordinating hundreds of transfers due to restructuring or expansion, we offer end-to-end support tailored to your agency’s policies, budgets, and compliance requirements.

Start Your Government Move With ARC

If you’re relocating under a federal assignment, or managing an internal government relocation program, don’t go it alone. ARC Relocation offers a full suite of government relocation services designed to take the complexity off your plate and deliver real results.

Fill out the contact form to speak with a relocation specialist today. We’ll walk you through your options, match you with experienced real estate professionals, and help you claim your government relocation assistance benefits, including our exclusive realtor rebate program.

Let us take care of the logistics so you can stay focused on the mission ahead.

Contact us today.

Moving can be a stressful experience for anyone, but for military personnel, it comes with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. If you’re facing a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), you might be considering a Personally Procured Move (PPM.

One tool that can make this process easier is a PPM calculator. But first, you’ll need to know what it is and how it can help you. Let’s dive in and explore the world of PPM calculators and military moves.

What Is a PPM Calculator?

A PPM calculator, formerly known as a DITY move calculator, is a helpful tool that is designed to help military members estimate the potential costs and reimbursements associated with their move. It gives you a sneak peek at what your move might cost  — and more importantly, how much you might get back.

Think of it as your financial GPS for moving. Just like you’d punch in your destination on a road trip, you input details about your PCS move into the PPM calculator. This includes things like your rank, the distance you’re moving, and the weight of your belongings. The calculator then crunches these numbers and spits out an estimate of your potential reimbursement.

But here’s the thing  — it’s not just about knowing how much you’ll get back. A good PPM calculator can help you decide whether a personally procured move is the right choice for you. Because let’s face it, sometimes letting the government handle your move (known as a Government Procured Move or GPM) might be the better option.

Using a PPM calculator can give you a clearer picture of the financial aspects of your move. It can help you budget more effectively and potentially even save money. But remember, it’s a tool, not a fortune teller. The actual costs and reimbursements may vary, so always treat the results as estimates rather than guarantees.

What Allowances Do You Receive in a PPM Calculator?

When you use a PPM calculator, you’ll see several types of allowances pop up. These are the different ways the military compensates you for your move. Understanding these can help you maximize your benefits and potentially even pocket some extra cash.

Dislocation Allowance (DLA)

First up is the Dislocation Allowance, or DLA. This is the military’s way of saying that they know that moving is such a pain, so they will give you cash to help ease that pain. The amount varies based on your rank and whether you have dependents, but it’s meant to cover those miscellaneous expenses that crop up during a move.

Maybe you need to buy new curtains for your new place, or you want to stock up on cleaning supplies. The DLA is there to help with those costs that don’t fit neatly into other categories.

It’s worth noting that the DLA is a flat rate. 

You don’t need to provide receipts for this allowance, which means if you’re frugal, you might have some left over. However, keep in mind that moving often comes with unexpected expenses, so don’t count on pocketing all of this allowance.

Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT)

Next, we have the Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation, which is essentially mileage reimbursement. As of 2024, the rate is 18 cents per mile. So if you’re driving from coast to coast, that can add up to a tidy sum.

MALT is calculated based on the official distance between your old and new duty stations, not the actual miles you drive. So if you decide to take a scenic route or make a few stops along the way, you won’t get extra reimbursement. But on the other hand, if you find a shorter route, you still get paid for the official distance.

Per Diem

Then there’s the per diem allowance. This is money allocated for your daily expenses during the move, like food and lodging. The rates can vary depending on your location and the time of year, so a PPM calculator can be super helpful in estimating this accurately.

Per diem rates are set by the Defense Travel Management Office and are updated regularly. They’re based on the cost of living in different areas, so you might find that your per diem is higher in big cities and lower in rural areas.

One thing to keep in mind is that per diem rates are usually lower for longer moves. The idea is that if you’re staying in one place for an extended period, you can find more economical options for food and lodging.

Weight Allowance

Last but not least is the weight allowance. The government will reimburse you based on the weight of your household goods, up to a certain limit based on your rank and dependency status. 

A PPM calculator can help you estimate this allowance, which is important in determining whether a personally procured move will be financially beneficial for you.

Your weight allowance increases as you move up in rank and if you have dependents. It’s important to get an accurate estimate of your household goods’ weight before you move. 

Overestimating could lead you to expect a larger reimbursement than you’ll actually receive, while underestimating might make you miss out on potential benefits.

Fill Out This Form to See if You Qualify for Home Rebates

How to Use a PPM Calculator Effectively

Now that we’ve covered what goes into a PPM calculator, let’s talk about how to use one effectively. It’s not rocket science, but there are a few tips that can help you get the most accurate estimate possible.

Be Honest About Your Stuff

First things first  — be honest about how much stuff you have. It’s tempting to underestimate, especially if you’re hoping to pocket some extra cash. But remember, if you end up moving more than you estimated, you could end up out of pocket. A good rule of thumb is to add about 10% to your initial estimate. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Take the time to go through your home and make a detailed inventory. Don’t forget about items in storage or things you might acquire before the move. The more accurate your estimate, the more reliable your PPM calculator results will be.

Factor in All Costs

Next, make sure you’re factoring in all potential costs. This includes things like packing materials, rental trucks, storage fees, and even gas for your vehicles. These can add up quickly, and forgetting to include them could lead to an unpleasant surprise down the road.

Consider less obvious costs too, like if you need to hire help for loading and unloading, or if there are any special items that will need extra care in packing or transport. Factoring in these details can give you a more accurate picture of your total moving costs.

Consider Your Time

Your time is valuable too, which is something that many people forget. While a PPM calculator won’t put a dollar value on your time, it’s worth considering. 

If you’re going to spend weeks packing and moving yourself, is the potential financial gain worth it? Only you can answer that question, but it’s definitely worth pondering. A military relocation professional can help make your time more valuable. 

Think about your work schedule, family commitments, and personal stress levels. A PPM can save you money, but it also requires a significant time investment. Make sure you’re factoring in this “hidden cost” when making your decision.

PPM Calculator: FAQs

Are PPM calculator results guaranteed?

While PPM calculators provide valuable estimates, they’re not guarantees. Actual reimbursements can vary based on many factors. Always treat the results as a guide rather than a promise.

Can I use a PPM calculator for international moves?

Most PPM calculators are designed for domestic moves within the United States. For international moves, you’ll need to consult with your transportation office for more accurate estimates.

What if I move less weight than I estimated?

If you move less weight than estimated, your reimbursement will be based on the actual weight moved, not your estimate. This is why it’s important to keep accurate records and get weight tickets.

Can I claim expenses like meals and hotels in a PPM?

Yes, you can claim reasonable expenses for meals and lodging during your move. These are typically covered under your per diem allowance.

How soon after my move should I file for reimbursement?

It’s best to file for reimbursement as soon as possible after your move is complete. Most branches require you to file within a certain timeframe, often 45-60 days after your move.

Final Thoughts

A PPM calculator is a valuable tool for planning your military move, helping you make informed decisions and potentially save money. However, it’s just one piece of the puzzle.

When deciding on a personally procured move, consider more than just finances. Think about your time, stress levels, and personal circumstances. A PPM isn’t for everyone, but it can be a great opportunity to take control of your move.

Whether you choose a PPM or a government-procured move, stay informed and plan ahead. Use all available resources, including PPM calculators, to make the best decision for you and your family.

Remember, it’s not just about the destination  — it’s about making the journey as smooth as possible. With the right planning and tools, you can navigate your military move successfully.

If you’re about to go through a PCS or if you know someone struggling to determine the cost using a PPM calculator, contact us at ARC Relocation today to set up a free consultation call.