TL;DR: For most CONUS military PPM moves, U-Haul is the cheapest option on paper and Penske is close behind with an advertised 15% military discount — but U-Pack and PODS often win once you factor in the value of your time, your back, and the real cost of driving a 26-foot truck 1,800 miles. This guide breaks down 2026 pricing, military discounts, and which option actually maximizes your PPM reimbursement based on your move.
You just got orders. You’ve been told about the PPM (formerly DITY), you’ve heard you can pocket a few thousand dollars, and now you’re staring at four websites trying to figure out which one is actually the cheapest. Here’s the honest truth: the “cheapest” option depends entirely on your distance, your weight, whether you have help loading, and how much your time is worth. Furthermore, the company that wins on sticker price is almost never the company that wins on out-the-door cost once you add fuel, mileage, and lodging.
This guide compares U-Haul, Penske, PODS, and U-Pack specifically for military Personally Procured Moves (PPMs) in 2026 — with real military discounts, honest pros and cons, and the math that actually determines your reimbursement profit. Before you book anything, start your free PCS Plan© to get a personalized roadmap for your move.
How PPM Reimbursement Actually Works in 2026
Before you compare truck rental prices, you need to understand what you’re actually being reimbursed for. Otherwise, you can’t calculate whether a cheaper option is actually leaving more money in your pocket.
The PPM reimbursement rate in 2026 is 100% of the Government Constructed Cost (GCC) — what the DoD would have paid a contracted mover to handle your shipment. During summer 2025 the rate was temporarily bumped to 130% due to the HomeSafe Alliance contract collapse, but it has returned to 100% for the current cycle. You keep whatever’s left after your documented moving expenses.
Additionally, you can request up to 60% of your estimated reimbursement as an advance before your move to cover truck rentals, fuel, and packing supplies. That advance comes through your finance office and is subtracted from your final payout.
Here’s the simple math: if your GCC is $8,000 and your actual move costs $3,500, you pocket the $4,500 difference (minus 22% federal withholding on the profit portion). Therefore, the cheaper you can move yourself, the bigger your reimbursement check — which is why comparing U-Haul, Penske, PODS, and U-Pack matters in the first place.
For a full breakdown of how PPMs work, eligibility, and the documentation you need, see our complete DITY/PPM move guide.
The Four Options at a Glance
| Service | Type | You Drive? | Military Discount | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Haul | Truck rental | Yes | No % discount, but 1 month free storage with DD Form 2278 | Shortest-distance moves, smaller households, tightest budgets |
| Penske | Truck rental | Yes | 15% off with code MILITARY | Long-distance moves where truck quality and unlimited one-way miles matter |
| PODS | Moving container | No | 10% off with code SERV10 | Families who need flexible loading time or storage built in |
| U-Pack | Moving container/trailer | No | $100 off active duty (code DITY10); $50 off veterans (MIL50) | Mid- to long-distance interstate moves where you want to skip the drive |
Data last verified: April 2026. Confirm current rates and discounts directly with each provider at the time of booking.
U-Haul for Military PPM Moves
U-Haul is the 800-pound gorilla of DIY moving — 21,000+ locations across the U.S. and Canada, the widest range of truck sizes (from cargo vans up to 26-foot trucks), and consistently the lowest published base rates. For the smallest budgets and the shortest moves, nothing beats it.
U-Haul pricing and what to expect
U-Haul’s in-town rentals advertise from $19.95 per day, but for a PCS you’re almost always doing a one-way interstate rental, which uses distance-based pricing that includes a set mileage allowance. Consequently, a cross-country 26-foot truck one-way typically runs $2,000 to $4,000 depending on the route, season, and availability. Additionally, summer PCS season drives prices up and availability down — book at least 30 days out during May through August.
U-Haul military benefits (not a discount, but still useful)
Here’s where U-Haul gets honest: U-Haul does not offer a percentage-off military discount. However, they do offer two PPM-specific benefits worth knowing about:
- One month of free storage at your destination when you rent a one-way truck or trailer
- One month of free storage (traditional or U-Box) when you present your DD Form 2278 at a participating location — no truck rental required
- Weight tickets available — U-Haul staff are experienced with PPM documentation requirements
- Box buy-back program — return unused boxes with your receipt for a full refund
When U-Haul is the right call
Choose U-Haul when your move is under 1,200 miles, you’re moving a one- or two-bedroom household, you have help on both ends, and you’re comfortable driving a big truck. For an E-4 with dependents moving 900 miles with 5,000 pounds of household goods, U-Haul will almost certainly leave the most PPM profit in your pocket — provided you can handle the drive.
Where U-Haul falls short
Truck quality varies widely by location. Moreover, mileage surcharges apply if you exceed your allotted miles, fuel costs on cross-country moves routinely hit $500 to $1,000, and older fleet vehicles can mean breakdowns at the worst possible moment. Additionally, drive time on a move longer than 1,500 miles often means multiple hotel nights and meals that eat into your reimbursement profit.
Penske for Military PPM Moves
Penske is the quality-focused alternative to U-Haul. The fleet is newer, the trucks are better maintained, and Penske offers a 15% military discount with code MILITARY — the highest percentage discount among the four options. They also run a dedicated military call center (1-844-4TROOPS) staffed by people with military connections.
Penske pricing and what to expect
Penske’s base rates typically run 10% to 20% higher than U-Haul’s pre-discount. However, once you apply the 15% military code, the gap closes significantly and in some cases Penske comes out cheaper than U-Haul on long-distance moves. Furthermore, Penske offers unlimited mileage on one-way moves — no overage fees, no per-mile surcharges — which can matter enormously if you’re driving from Fort Bragg to JBLM or similar.
Penske military benefits
- 15% off truck rentals with promo code MILITARY (active duty and veterans)
- Dedicated military call center: 1-844-4TROOPS
- Unlimited miles on one-way moves — no overage surcharges
- Newer fleet — fuel-efficient diesel engines on most trucks
- 24/7 roadside assistance included
When Penske is the right call
Penske wins on long-distance interstate PPMs (1,200+ miles) where unlimited mileage and truck reliability matter more than the cheapest possible sticker price. In contrast to U-Haul’s distance-based mileage tiers, Penske’s flat one-way pricing is easier to budget against your GCC. Moreover, the 15% military discount on a $3,500 rental is $525 saved — meaningful money.
Where Penske falls short
Penske has significantly fewer locations than U-Haul, so availability can be tight in rural areas or near smaller installations. Additionally, Penske does not offer cargo vans or pickup trucks — their smallest residential option is a 12-foot truck, which is too big for a studio or dorm move. Furthermore, at the counter you’ll need a valid military ID to honor the 15% discount.
PODS for Military PPM Moves
PODS is the OG moving container service — they drop a weather-resistant container at your house, you load it on your own schedule, and a driver transports it to your new address (or storage). You never touch a steering wheel. For military families with young kids, deployed spouses handling a solo PCS, or anyone dreading a 26-foot truck on I-40 through the Rockies, PODS is a game-changer.
PODS pricing and what to expect
PODS pricing is higher than truck rentals — typically $3,000 to $6,000 for a long-distance CONUS move — but that number includes the container, transportation, and 30 days of storage built in. There’s no fuel, no mileage, no hotels, no driving. Consequently, on a 2,000-mile move, the PODS premium over U-Haul can shrink or disappear entirely once you add up what you’d actually spend on gas, hotels, and meals behind the wheel.
PODS military benefits
- 10% off with promo code SERV10 — active duty, veterans, and retired military
- Discount applies to long-distance moves — including first month’s storage, initial delivery, and transportation fees
- Accepts MILITARY STAR® card for payment flexibility
- Three container sizes: 8-ft, 12-ft (local only), and 16-ft
- 30 days of storage included — useful if your housing isn’t ready yet
When PODS is the right call
PODS shines when your timeline is messy — you have to pack over multiple weekends because your spouse is deployed, you don’t know exactly when base housing opens up, or you’re arriving before your household goods can be delivered. Additionally, PODS serves 46 states plus DC, so coverage is solid for most CONUS assignments.
Where PODS falls short
PODS is not available in all 50 states — service is limited in parts of Wyoming, the Dakotas, Alaska, and Hawaii. Moreover, peak-season availability (May through August) can be tight, and some quotes require a phone call rather than instant online booking. Furthermore, if you’re moving under 500 miles with a smaller household, PODS will almost always cost more than U-Haul or Penske.
U-Pack for Military PPM Moves
U-Pack is the least-known option of the four, but for military PPMs it’s often the mathematical winner. Here’s how it works: U-Pack drops either a ReloCube® (a weather-resistant 8-foot metal container) or a portion of a 28-foot freight trailer at your house. You load it, they drive it, you unload. You only pay for the space you actually use. Transit times average 4 to 6 business days — significantly faster than PODS or Pack-Rat.
U-Pack pricing and what to expect
U-Pack pricing for long-distance interstate moves typically runs $2,000 to $5,000. Furthermore, the rate includes equipment, delivery, transportation, and standard liability coverage — no separate fees for fuel, mileage, or basic insurance. Notably, U-Pack doesn’t charge until your shipment is in transit, so there’s no upfront deposit like PODS or Pack-Rat requires.
U-Pack military benefits
- $100 off active-duty moves with promo code DITY10
- $50 off for veterans with promo code MIL50
- Pay for space you use — on a trailer rental, you only pay for the linear footage you fill
- 3 business days to load, 3 more to unload
- Weight tickets provided for PPM reimbursement documentation
- Faster transit — 4 to 6 business days average
When U-Pack is the right call
U-Pack is the sweet spot for most mid- to long-distance PPMs (800+ miles) where you want to skip the drive but keep costs reasonable. Moreover, the trailer option is especially valuable if you’re downsizing or moving from an apartment — you’re not paying for unused container space. Additionally, U-Pack serves all 50 states and DC, which makes it one of the few options that works for Alaska and Hawaii PCSes.
Where U-Pack falls short
U-Pack does not service local moves — only long-distance interstate. Additionally, the 3-business-day loading window is tighter than PODS’s 30-day flexibility, which can be stressful if you’re juggling work, kids, and an uncooperative weather forecast. Furthermore, U-Pack’s smallest container (the ReloCube) is comparable to PODS’s 8-foot container but smaller than PODS’s 16-foot option.
The Real Cost Comparison: A Realistic PPM Example
Numbers only mean something when they’re anchored to a real move. Here’s a realistic scenario: an E-6 with dependents PCSing 1,800 miles with 6,500 pounds of household goods. The GCC estimate is approximately $7,400.
| Option | Base Cost | Fuel + Hotels + Meals | Military Discount | Total Out-of-Pocket | Estimated PPM Profit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Haul 26-ft truck | $2,400 | $950 | None | $3,350 | ~$4,050 |
| Penske 26-ft truck | $2,900 ($2,465 after 15%) | $950 | 15% off ($435) | $3,415 | ~$3,985 |
| PODS 16-ft container | $4,200 ($3,780 after 10%) | $0 (you fly or drive POV) | 10% off ($420) | $3,780 | ~$3,620 |
| U-Pack trailer | $3,400 | $0 (you fly or drive POV) | $100 off | $3,300 | ~$4,100 |
Data last verified: April 2026. Actual costs vary significantly by season, route, origin/destination, and availability. Get current quotes from each provider before booking.
What this math actually shows: On a realistic long-distance PPM, U-Pack and U-Haul are effectively tied for total cost. However, U-Pack eliminates the drive entirely — which is why many military families consider it the better value once you factor in not spending 3 days behind the wheel of a diesel truck.
Your actual GCC depends on your rank, weight, and distance. Use the 2026 PPM Calculator to estimate your specific reimbursement before you commit to a provider. Additionally, review your 2026 military pay charts and 2026 BAH rates to plan your full PCS budget.
Which Option Is Cheapest? It Depends on Your Move
For moves under 500 miles
U-Haul almost always wins. At short distances, the mileage-based pricing stays low, fuel is manageable, and there’s no multi-day driving burden. In fact, a small 10-foot U-Haul for an E-3 moving 300 miles can cost under $400 — leaving almost the entire GCC as PPM profit.
For moves 500 to 1,200 miles
It’s a real coin flip between U-Haul and Penske. If you’re budget-first and comfortable driving, U-Haul edges out. Conversely, if you want the 15% discount, newer trucks, and unlimited miles, Penske is worth the slightly higher base rate.
For moves 1,200+ miles
U-Pack typically wins on total value. You skip 2 to 3 days behind the wheel, avoid hotel and meal costs, and the $100 active-duty discount plus transparent pricing usually makes it competitive with or cheaper than driving yourself once all costs are counted. Additionally, PODS becomes competitive here if you need the 30-day loading flexibility.
For moves with a deployed spouse or solo packing
PODS is the clear winner. The 30-day loading window means you can pack over multiple weekends without the pressure of a rental truck return date or a 3-day loading window. Furthermore, you never have to drive a 26-foot truck alone across multiple states.
For Alaska or Hawaii PCSes
U-Pack is one of the few options that serves all 50 states. For OCONUS moves specifically, work with your Transportation Office first — a PPM to Alaska or Hawaii involves entirely different logistics than a CONUS move.
Tips to Maximize Your PPM Reimbursement
Regardless of which provider you pick, these tactics will leave more money in your pocket:
- Get the 60% advance. Request it through your finance office before you move — it covers truck rental and packing supplies without forcing you to front the cash.
- Keep every single receipt. Truck rental, fuel, packing supplies, tolls, lodging, padlocks, moving labor, weight ticket fees — all of it documents your expenses and may be deductible. See our PCS tax write-offs guide for the complete list.
- Get certified weight tickets at both endpoints. One missing ticket doesn’t just reduce your reimbursement — it can invalidate the entire claim. Find CAT scales at truck stops on your route.
- Get 3 to 4 quotes. Prices vary enormously by season, route, and even day of the week. Moreover, asking Penske for a match on a U-Haul quote sometimes works.
- Consider a partial PPM. Let the government move your heavy furniture and appliances while you PPM your documents, electronics, kids’ essentials, and anything you don’t want damaged. You still get reimbursed on the portion you move yourself.
- Plan your PCS binder and checklist early. Organized paperwork is the single biggest predictor of whether your reimbursement claim processes smoothly or gets kicked back for 6 weeks.
Ready to get oriented on the full PCS?
Moving truck choice is one decision of many. If you’re in the “I just got orders, where do I start” phase, start your free PCS Plan© — our team builds you a personalized roadmap around your destination base, timeline, and family situation. It’s free, there’s no obligation, and every one of our ambassadors has done this before.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the cheapest way to do a military PPM move?
For moves under 1,200 miles with help on both ends, U-Haul is almost always the cheapest sticker price. However, U-Pack often wins on total out-the-door cost for longer moves once you factor in fuel, hotels, meals, and the value of your time. Run quotes from at least 3 providers before deciding.
Does U-Haul offer a military discount?
No, U-Haul does not offer a percentage-off military discount. However, they provide one month of free storage with a one-way truck rental, plus a second month of free storage if you present your DD Form 2278 at a participating location. They also provide weight tickets for PPM documentation.
How much is the Penske military discount?
Penske offers 15% off truck rentals for active-duty military and veterans using promo code MILITARY. Additionally, Penske provides unlimited mileage on one-way moves and runs a dedicated military call center at 1-844-4TROOPS. You’ll need a valid military ID at pickup to honor the discount.
Does PODS offer a military discount?
Yes. PODS offers 10% off for active-duty, retired, and veteran military members using promo code SERV10. The discount applies to long-distance moves including initial delivery, transportation, and the first month’s storage. PODS also accepts the MILITARY STAR® card.
Is U-Pack good for a military PPM?
U-Pack is one of the most PPM-friendly services available. Active-duty military receive $100 off with code DITY10, veterans receive $50 off with code MIL50, transit times average 4 to 6 business days, and you only pay for the trailer space you actually use. Additionally, U-Pack provides weight tickets and doesn’t charge until your shipment is in transit.
How much of my PPM reimbursement can I get in advance?
You can request up to 60% of your estimated PPM reimbursement as an advance through your finance office. The advance covers upfront costs like truck rental, fuel, and packing supplies, and the amount is subtracted from your final payout after you submit your completed documentation.
Is my PPM profit taxable?
Yes. Any reimbursement that exceeds your documented moving expenses is treated as supplemental income and is typically subject to 22% federal withholding. The profit appears on your W-2. However, you can offset some of the tax burden by deducting unreimbursed moving expenses on IRS Form 3903 — see the IRS Armed Forces moving expense guidance for details.
What paperwork do I need for a PPM reimbursement?
At minimum: DD Form 2278 (Do-It-Yourself Move and Counseling Checklist), certified empty and full weight tickets from a CAT scale or public weigh station, and receipts for every moving expense (truck rental, fuel, packing supplies, tolls, labor). Your Transportation Office will walk you through the exact checklist at your counseling appointment.
Can I combine a government move with a PPM?
Yes — it’s called a partial PPM. The government moves part of your household goods (typically heavy furniture and appliances) while you PPM the rest. You still get reimbursed on the portion you move yourself, and many military families find this gives them the financial upside of a PPM without the physical toll of moving everything themselves.
Do I need to use a certified weigh station for weight tickets?
Yes. Weight tickets must come from a certified public weigh master or government scale. CAT scales at truck stops (Pilot, Flying J, Loves) are the most common option and typically cost $12 to $15 per weigh. You need both an empty-truck weight ticket and a loaded-truck weight ticket from each segment of your move.
Which moving company is best for a cross-country PCS?
For cross-country moves (1,500+ miles), U-Pack typically offers the best balance of cost and convenience because you skip days behind the wheel. Penske is the best choice if you prefer to drive yourself — the 15% military discount and unlimited one-way mileage make it more predictable than U-Haul on long routes. PODS wins if timing flexibility matters more than cost.
Should I hire professional movers and still do a PPM?
Absolutely. A PPM doesn’t require you to carry every box yourself — you can hire professional movers, rent a truck, use a container service, or any combination. The only requirement is that you arranged and paid for the service yourself rather than using the government-contracted mover. Keep all receipts for reimbursement.
Key Takeaways
- There’s no universal “cheapest” option. U-Haul wins on short distances, Penske on long-distance truck rentals with its 15% discount, PODS on flexibility, and U-Pack on long-distance container moves.
- Your PPM reimbursement is 100% of the GCC in 2026. Whatever you don’t spend, you pocket — minus 22% federal withholding on the profit.
- Request your 60% advance through your finance office before the move so you’re not fronting the cost of a truck rental on a credit card.
- Factor in fuel, hotels, and meals on truck rentals — on a 1,800-mile PPM, driving yourself often adds $900+ to the total cost.
- Keep every weight ticket and receipt. Missing documentation is the #1 reason PPM claims get rejected or reduced.
- Get 3 to 4 quotes before committing, and verify the current military discount at the time of booking — codes and percentages change.
- Consider a partial PPM if the idea of moving everything yourself feels overwhelming. You can still earn meaningful reimbursement without the full physical toll.
- Start early. Start your free PCS Plan© to get a personalized roadmap built around your orders, your family, and your timeline.
