Military DITY Move Calculator
Relocating under military orders can be stressful, especially when finances are involved. A DITY move (also known as a Personally Procured Move or PPM) gives service members flexibility and the opportunity to earn money by managing their own move. However, calculating reimbursements, expenses, and potential profit can be confusing without the right tools.
That’s where our Military DITY Move Calculator comes in. This calculator helps you quickly estimate your government payment, total expenses, net reimbursement, amount owed or due, and potential profit—all in one place. Whether you’re planning your move or reviewing your final numbers, this tool provides instant clarity.
What Is a Military DITY Move?
A DITY (Do It Yourself) move allows eligible military personnel to move their household goods themselves instead of using government-arranged movers. In return, the government reimburses up to 95% of the cost it would have paid for a standard move.
This option is popular because it can:
- Save time
- Provide flexibility
- Offer a chance to earn extra money if expenses are kept low
However, without accurate calculations, it’s easy to underestimate costs or misunderstand reimbursements.
What the Military DITY Move Calculator Does
The Military DITY Move Calculator is designed to give you a realistic financial snapshot of your move. By entering a few essential details, the calculator instantly provides:
- Government payment (95% rate)
- Total moving expenses
- Net reimbursement
- Amount due or owed after advance payment
- Potential profit from the move
This eliminates guesswork and helps you make informed decisions before and after your relocation.
Inputs Required by the Calculator
To get accurate results, the calculator uses five key inputs:
1. Total Weight of Goods (lbs)
This refers to the total weight of your household items being moved. Accurate weight is crucial, as reimbursement is directly based on it.
2. Distance (Miles)
The distance between your old and new duty stations affects the total cost calculation.
3. Military Rate per 100 lbs per Mile
This is the official rate used to calculate government moving costs. Rates may vary depending on current military guidelines.
4. Total Moving Expenses
This includes truck rental, fuel, packing supplies, labor, storage, and other out-of-pocket costs.
5. Advance Payment Received
If you received an advance before the move, it is deducted from your final reimbursement.
How to Use the Military DITY Move Calculator
Using the calculator is simple and fast. Just follow these steps:
- Enter the total weight of your household goods in pounds
- Enter the distance of your move in miles
- Input the military rate per 100 pounds per mile
- Enter your total moving expenses
- Add any advance payment you received
- Click the Calculate button
Your detailed financial breakdown appears instantly.
To recalculate with new numbers, simply use the Reset option.
Example DITY Move Calculation
Here’s a realistic example to show how the calculator works:
- Weight of goods: 8,000 lbs
- Distance: 1,200 miles
- Rate: $0.60 per 100 lbs/mile
- Expenses: $4,500
- Advance payment: $2,000
Results:
- Government Payment (95%): $54,720
- Total Expenses: $4,500
- Net Reimbursement: $50,220
- Amount Due/Owed: $48,220
- Potential Profit: $50,220
This example shows how managing expenses efficiently can result in a significant profit.
Understanding Your Results
Government Payment (95%)
This is the amount the government reimburses based on weight, distance, and rate—capped at 95% of the estimated cost.
Total Expenses
All out-of-pocket costs incurred during your move.
Net Reimbursement
The amount you receive after expenses are deducted from the government payment.
Amount Due or Owed
This shows whether you owe money back or are still owed funds after accounting for any advance payment.
Potential Profit
This represents how much you keep if your expenses are lower than the government reimbursement.
Why This DITY Move Calculator Is Important
This calculator is extremely helpful for military members because it:
- ✅ Helps plan move budgets accurately
- ✅ Shows real profit potential before committing
- ✅ Reduces financial surprises
- ✅ Saves time and manual calculations
- ✅ Supports better decision-making
Knowing your numbers in advance allows you to choose the most cost-effective moving strategy.
Who Should Use This Calculator?
- Active duty service members
- Reservists and National Guard members
- Military families planning PCS moves
- First-time DITY movers
- Anyone comparing government vs personal move options
Important Notes to Keep in Mind
- Reimbursement rates can change based on military policies
- Official payments are finalized after certified weight tickets
- Taxes may apply to DITY move profits
- Always keep receipts for expenses
This calculator provides estimates, not official settlement figures.
15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does DITY stand for?
DITY means “Do It Yourself” move.
2. Is a DITY move the same as a PPM?
Yes, DITY and Personally Procured Move mean the same thing.
3. How is government payment calculated?
It’s based on weight, distance, rate, and reimbursed at 95%.
4. Can I make money on a DITY move?
Yes, if your expenses are lower than the reimbursement.
5. Are DITY move profits taxable?
Yes, profits are usually taxable income.
6. Does the calculator include taxes?
No, taxes are not included in calculations.
7. Can I use estimated weight?
Yes, but certified weight tickets are required for final payment.
8. What expenses can I include?
Truck rental, fuel, packing supplies, labor, storage, and more.
9. What if my expenses exceed reimbursement?
You may owe money or receive no profit.
10. Is advance payment mandatory?
No, it is optional.
11. Can this calculator be used for partial DITY moves?
Yes, enter only the weight you personally move.
12. Does distance affect reimbursement?
Yes, longer distances increase reimbursement.
13. Is this calculator official?
No, it’s an estimation tool.
14. Can families use this calculator?
Yes, it’s ideal for military families.
15. Can I recalculate multiple scenarios?
Yes, you can reset and try unlimited variations.
Final Thoughts
The Military DITY Move Calculator is an essential planning tool for service members considering a personally procured move. It simplifies complex calculations and gives you instant insight into reimbursements, expenses, and profit potential. By using this calculator, you can confidently plan your move, control costs, and avoid unpleasant financial surprises.