Fairer moving costs for UK PASH users
Moving home is never easy, but the Armed Forces are making it a little simpler and fairer.
If you live in Single Living Accommodation (SLA) – in a Mess, Barrack Block or equivalent – and you need to move your things when posted to another unit, there are two ways you can get help:
- UK Private Arrangements Self Help Scheme (UK PASH) – you arrange your own move and claim back some of the costs
- Self Pack Service (SPS) – your unit helps move your belongings through stores
UK PASH remains a popular choice – used by over 1,500 Service personnel last year – and from 1 May 2026, it’s getting even better.
Right now, you can claim back up to £298.56 for things like van hire, a trailer, packing boxes, or a removal firm. That cap isn't changing.
But here's the new bit: you can now also claim Motor Mileage Allowance (MMA) on top of the £298.56. MMA is paid at 25p per mile for one return trip – including any required detours, like picking up a hired van.
In short, you get:
- up to £298.56 for your moving costs
- 25p for every mile you drive
Moving further away costs more money. But until now, everyone got the same cap – no matter how far they had to travel. That wasn't fair, especially as personnel don't always get to choose their posting – moving to where Defence needs them.
This change means longer moves get more support. It's a practical improvement that better reflects the costs involved in Service life.
Part of Your Offer
The Armed Forces Offer is about making sure that the people who serve our country are treated fairly and looked after well, with real support when life gets disrupted – like when you need to move home to serve at a new location.
Further information
Full details and information on all the rules around removal support are available in JSP 752, Chapter 12, Section 4.
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