How Much Does a Military PCS Move Cost?
For a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), the military covers your move. Government-arranged moves through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) are free. A Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY) lets you move yourself and pocket 95% of the government's estimated cost — typically $3,000–$10,000+ depending on distance and weight.
DIY vs. Movers: Which Is Right for This Move?
Choose DIY if: You're moving a small amount of belongings, have friends who can help at both ends, are comfortable driving a large truck over a long distance, and have flexibility on timing.
Choose movers if: You have a full household, valuable or fragile items, limited time off work, or you simply don't want the stress of driving a 26-foot truck across multiple states.
Hybrid option: You pack and load, movers drive. This saves 30–40% vs. full-service movers while eliminating the hardest part — driving. Look for "you-pack, we-drive" or portable storage container services.
What's Included in a Long-Distance Moving Quote
Most long-distance mover quotes include loading, transport, and unloading. They do not automatically include:
- Packing materials (boxes, tape, blankets) — add $100–400
- Packing service (movers do the packing) — add $400–1,200
- Storage if delivery is delayed — add $100–300/month
- Stair and elevator fees at origin or destination
- Long carry surcharges if trucks can't park close
Get Your Military PCS Move Moving Estimate
Use the free calculator to build a complete budget — movers or truck, flights, housing deposits, and all the costs that don't show up in the base quote.
Open Free Moving Cost Calculator →FAQ — Military PCS Move Moving Cost
How do moving companies charge per mile?
Long-distance movers don't charge a flat per-mile rate. They charge by total shipment weight plus a fuel/mileage component. The mileage component typically runs $0.70–1.00 per mile for a loaded 26-foot truck.
How much does a 500-mile move cost?
A 500-mile move with professional movers averages $2,500–4,000 for a 2-bedroom home. DIY with a rental truck runs $700–1,200 plus fuel (budget $0.15–0.20/mile for a large truck).
How much does a 1,000-mile move cost?
A 1,000-mile move averages $3,500–6,000 with professional movers for a 2-bedroom home. DIY costs $1,200–1,800. The mileage component adds roughly $700–1,000 to movers' base price.
Does moving cost increase linearly with distance?
Not exactly. The weight-based cost stays constant regardless of distance. The mileage/fuel component increases linearly. For very long moves (1,500+ miles), the mileage cost becomes a large portion of the total.
What's cheaper for a long move — movers or a truck rental?
DIY truck rental is almost always cheaper by $2,000–4,000. But factor in your time, physical effort, fuel, lodging en route, and the risk of damage. For fragile items or large families, the cost difference often justifies hiring movers.
How do I reduce moving cost per mile?
Move during off-peak season (October–April), declutter before the move to reduce weight, get 3+ quotes, and consider hybrid options (you pack, movers drive). Each strategy can reduce total cost by 10–25%.