Calculate your DITY (Personally Procured Move) weight allowance and understand the limits for your Army relocation.
DITY Move Weight Calculator
E-1 to E-4
E-5 to E-6
E-7 to E-9
O-1 to O-3 / WO1-W3
O-4 to O-6 / W4-W5
O-7+
Select your current rank or grade. This determines your basic weight allowance.
Enter the number of legal dependents traveling with you.Please enter a non-negative number for dependents.
Household Goods (HHG)
Non-Temporary Storage (NTS)
Select the type of shipment you are planning. NTS has different weight considerations.
If you have an existing NTS shipment, enter its weight limit. You cannot exceed the total of HHG + NTS.Please enter a non-negative number for the NTS weight limit.
Enter any approved additional weight you have been authorized.Please enter a non-negative number for additional weight request.
Your DITY Move Weight Calculation
— lbs
Basic Allowance: — lbs
Dependent Add-on: — lbs
Additional Request: — lbs
Total Authorized Weight: — lbs
NTS Note: Your HHG allowance is reduced by your NTS weight.
Formula Used:
Your total authorized weight allowance is calculated by summing your Basic Allowance (based on rank) and any Dependent Add-on weight. The Additional Weight Request is then added to this sum. If you are shipping Non-Temporary Storage (NTS), your HHG allowance is effectively reduced by the NTS weight, meaning the total weight of HHG and NTS combined cannot exceed your combined entitlement.
Comparison of Basic Allowance vs. Total Authorized Weight
Rank/Grade Group
Basic HHG Weight Allowance (lbs)
Dependent Add-on Weight (lbs)
E-1 to E-4
5,000
500
E-5 to E-6
7,000
500
E-7 to E-9
9,000
1,000
O-1 to O-3 / WO1-W3
11,000
1,000
O-4 to O-6 / W4-W5
13,000
1,000
O-7+
15,000
1,000
What is an Army DITY Move Weight Calculator?
An Army DITY move weight calculator is a specialized tool designed to help Service members, particularly those in the Army, determine their authorized weight limits for a Personally Procured Move (PPM), commonly known as a DITY (Do-It-Yourself) move. This calculator simplifies the complex process of understanding weight allowances, which are crucial for managing expenses and avoiding penalties during relocation. It takes into account factors like rank, the number of dependents, and specific shipment types to provide a clear picture of the maximum weight allowed for personal property shipment.
Who should use it?
Any Army Service member planning a PPM or DITY move should utilize this calculator. Whether you're moving across the country or overseas, understanding your weight allowance is the first step to successful planning. It's particularly useful for those who want to maximize their reimbursement by managing their belongings effectively and ensuring they stay within the authorized limits.
Common misconceptions about DITY move weight:
A frequent misconception is that the weight allowance is a hard cap that, if exceeded by even a pound, results in the entire shipment being non-reimbursable. In reality, exceeding allowances typically incurs costs only for the excess weight. Another misunderstanding is that the allowance is a flat rate per person; it's primarily rank-dependent, with adjustments for dependents and special circumstances. Finally, many don't realize that Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) counts against the total weight allowance, not just the weight being moved directly.
Army DITY Move Weight Calculation Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The core of the army dity move weight calculator relies on a straightforward additive formula, adjusted by specific military regulations. The primary components are the basic weight allowance based on rank and the additional allowance for dependents. Any authorized additional weight requests are also factored in.
Step-by-step derivation:
1. Determine Basic Weight Allowance (BWA): This is the foundational allowance granted based on the Service member's rank/grade. Referencing official Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) or service-specific guidance establishes these baseline numbers.
2. Calculate Dependent Add-on Weight (DAW): Additional weight is permitted for legal dependents. The amount typically varies by rank group, but a standard add-on is often applied within broader rank categories.
3. Sum Basic and Dependent Allowances: BWA + DAW = Initial Entitlement Weight.
4. Incorporate Additional Weight Request (AWR): If a Service member has received prior approval for weight exceeding their standard entitlement (e.g., for specialized equipment or extended tours), this approved amount is added. Initial Entitlement Weight + AWR = Total Authorized Weight.
5. Consider Non-Temporary Storage (NTS): For DITY moves involving NTS, the weight placed in NTS effectively reduces the weight allowance available for direct shipment (HHG). The total combined weight of HHG and NTS must not exceed the Service member's total authorized weight entitlement. The calculator highlights this by showing the HHG allowance reduced if NTS is selected.
The simplified formula displayed is:
Total Authorized Weight = (Basic Weight Allowance based on Rank) + (Dependent Add-on Weight) + (Approved Additional Weight Request)
Note: When NTS is involved, the weight of NTS is subtracted from the HHG allowance to ensure the combined total does not exceed entitlements.
Legal dependents (spouse, children) traveling with the Service member.
Count
0 – 10+
Shipment Type
Type of shipment being planned (Household Goods or Non-Temporary Storage).
Category
HHG, NTS
Basic Weight Allowance (BWA)
Standard weight entitlement based solely on rank.
Pounds (lbs)
5,000 – 15,000
Dependent Add-on Weight (DAW)
Additional weight allowance granted per dependent, often capped per rank group.
Pounds (lbs)
0 – 1,000
Additional Weight Request (AWR)
Pre-approved excess weight allowance authorized by the transportation office.
Pounds (lbs)
0 – 5,000+ (highly variable, requires approval)
Total Authorized Weight
The maximum combined weight the Service member is permitted to ship without incurring personal charges.
Pounds (lbs)
Varies based on inputs
NTS Weight
Weight of goods placed in Non-Temporary Storage. Deducted from HHG allowance.
Pounds (lbs)
0 – Typically up to HHG allowance
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: Junior Enlisted Move
Scenario: Sergeant Smith (E-5) is relocating with his spouse and one child. He plans to ship his household goods directly and is not using NTS. He has no approved additional weight requests.
Interpretation: Sergeant Smith is authorized to ship up to 7,500 lbs of household goods. If his shipment weighs more than this, he will be personally responsible for the cost of the excess weight.
Example 2: Senior Officer Move with NTS
Scenario: Lieutenant Colonel Jones (O-5) is being transferred and needs to place a portion of his belongings into Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) for an extended period. He has one dependent (spouse). He has received approval for an additional 2,000 lbs due to specialized equipment.
Inputs:
Rank/Grade: O-4 to O-6
Number of Dependents: 1 (Spouse)
Shipment Type: NTS
Existing NTS Weight Limit: 5,000 lbs (This is the weight they *intend* to put in NTS)
HHG Allowance Consideration: Since 5,000 lbs are going into NTS, the allowance for direct HHG shipment is effectively reduced. Total Authorized Weight (16,000 lbs) – NTS Weight (5,000 lbs) = 11,000 lbs maximum for direct HHG shipment.
Interpretation: Lt Col Jones has a total entitlement of 16,000 lbs. He can place up to 5,000 lbs in NTS. The remaining weight allowance for direct shipment of HHG is 11,000 lbs. If his direct HHG shipment exceeds 11,000 lbs, he will incur personal costs for that excess weight. The NTS weight is accounted for within his overall entitlement.
How to Use This Army DITY Move Weight Calculator
Select Your Rank/Grade: Choose the category that best matches your current military rank. This is the primary factor determining your base weight allowance.
Enter Number of Dependents: Input the total count of legal dependents who will be relocating with you. This adds to your total allowance.
Choose Shipment Type: Select whether you are shipping Household Goods (HHG) directly or placing items in Non-Temporary Storage (NTS). If NTS is selected, you'll need to input the weight intended for NTS.
Input Additional Weight Request (If Applicable): If you have received specific authorization for extra weight beyond the standard allowance, enter that amount here.
Click "Calculate": The calculator will instantly process your inputs and display the results.
How to read results:
Primary Result (Total Authorized Weight): This is the maximum weight (in pounds) you are permitted to ship under the DITY/PPM program for your current situation.
Basic Allowance: The starting weight allowance based on your rank.
Dependent Add-on: The extra weight you're entitled to because of your dependents.
Additional Request: Any pre-approved excess weight.
NTS Note: If applicable, this indicates how your HHG allowance is affected by NTS weight.
Decision-making guidance: Use the "Total Authorized Weight" as your target limit. If you plan to move the goods yourself (PPM), weigh your packed truck or container before and after loading to get the net weight of your belongings. Compare this to your authorized limit. If your actual shipment weight exceeds the calculated authorized weight, you'll need to consider options like downsizing your belongings, utilizing DoD storage options, or preparing to pay for the excess weight out-of-pocket.
Key Factors That Affect Army DITY Move Weight Results
Several elements significantly influence the weight allowance calculated for an Army DITY move. Understanding these factors can help Service members plan more effectively and potentially maximize their reimbursement:
Rank and Seniority: This is the most critical factor. Higher ranks generally receive significantly higher basic weight allowances, reflecting the greater accumulation of household goods typically associated with senior positions and longer service periods.
Number of Dependents: Service members with dependents (spouse, children) are granted additional weight allowances. This recognizes the increased volume of personal property required to maintain a household for a family unit. The allowance may vary based on the number of dependents, though it's often capped within certain rank brackets.
Type of Shipment (HHG vs. NTS): Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) is crucial. Goods placed in NTS count against the total weight allowance. This means if you put 4,000 lbs in NTS, you only have allowance for 4,000 lbs less than your total entitlement for direct shipment. Planning NTS carefully is vital to avoid exceeding the overall limit.
Approved Additional Weight Requests: In specific circumstances, such as assignments to remote locations, extended tours, or due to possession of specialized equipment (e.g., musical instruments, scientific gear), Service members may apply for and receive authorization for additional weight beyond their standard entitlement. This requires formal approval from the transportation office (TMO).
Overseas vs. CONUS Moves: While not directly affecting the *weight allowance calculation* itself, the nature of overseas moves can influence how weight is managed. Restrictions on vehicle sizes or types of goods allowed internationally might indirectly affect how much Service members choose or are able to ship, impacting their utilization of the allowance. Understanding international moving regulations is key.
Specific Military Branch Policies & JTR Updates: While the JTR provides the overarching framework, specific branches might have minor policy nuances. Furthermore, regulations are updated periodically. Relying on outdated information can lead to miscalculations. Always refer to the latest JTR and your local TMO office for definitive guidance.
Actual Weight vs. Allowance: The calculator provides the *authorized* weight. The actual weight of your belongings determines your reimbursement. If you ship less than your authorized allowance, you are reimbursed only for the weight shipped. If you ship more, you pay for the excess. Efficient packing and decluttering are essential financial strategies. Consider using a moving cost estimator to budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between DITY and PPM?A1: DITY (Do-It-Yourself) and PPM (Personally Procured Move) are essentially the same thing. PPM is the official term used in the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) for a move where the Service member arranges and pays for the packing, loading, transportation, and unloading of their personal property.
Q2: How is the weight allowance calculated for a single Service member with no dependents?A2: For a single Service member, the weight allowance is primarily determined by their rank/grade, as shown in the 'Basic Allowance' column of the calculator and the table. There is no dependent add-on in this case.
Q3: Can I ship more than my authorized weight allowance?A3: Yes, you can ship more than your authorized allowance, but you will be personally responsible for paying the costs associated with the excess weight. The calculator shows your entitlement; anything above that is at your own expense.
Q4: Does the weight of my vehicle count towards my household goods weight allowance?A4: No, vehicles typically have separate shipping allowances and procedures and do not count against your household goods weight limit. Consult your TMO office for vehicle shipping details.
Q5: What happens if my actual shipment weight is less than my authorized allowance?A5: You will be reimbursed based on the actual weight shipped and the distance of your move, up to the authorized weight allowance limit. Shipping less than the maximum is perfectly fine and often more cost-effective if you can downsize.
Q6: How do I get approval for an additional weight request?A6: You must submit a formal request to your local transportation office (TMO). Approval is typically granted for specific reasons, such as extended tours of duty or unique personal circumstances, and is not guaranteed. Document your need thoroughly.
Q7: Does my weight allowance change if I'm moving overseas versus within the continental US (CONUS)?A7: The basic weight allowance calculation based on rank and dependents generally remains the same for both CONUS and overseas moves under the JTR. However, specific regulations regarding *what* can be shipped and *how* (e.g., container sizes, prohibited items) can differ significantly for overseas assignments. Consult your TMO for overseas specifics. Planning an overseas move requires extra attention.
Q8: How is the reimbursement calculated for a PPM/DITY move?A8: Reimbursement is typically based on the lower of (1) the actual cost incurred by the Service member or (2) the estimated government cost for moving the same weight commercially, multiplied by 95% (for HHG). This calculation is complex and involves weighing certificates, inventory lists, and distance. Using the calculator helps you understand the *limit* of weight for which you can claim reimbursement.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Beyond understanding your weight allowance, successful DITY moves involve careful planning and budgeting. Explore these related resources:
PCS Budgeting Calculator: Estimate the total costs associated with your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move, including DITY-related expenses.
Military BAH Calculator: Understand your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) which is a key component of your overall compensation during PCS.