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.