HHG Weight Allowances by Rank
Your household goods weight allowance depends on your pay grade and dependency status. Junior enlisted members (E-1 through E-4) without dependents are authorized 5,000 to 7,000 pounds, while the same ranks with dependents receive 8,000 pounds. Mid-grade NCOs and junior officers typically fall in the 11,000 to 13,000 pound range with dependents. Senior enlisted and field-grade officers are authorized 14,500 to 17,500 pounds, and general and flag officers top out at 18,000 pounds. These limits apply to your total government-shipped weight, including professional books and equipment. Exceeding your allowance means you pay the overage at the per-pound shipping rate — which can add up quickly. Review your full PCS entitlements to understand what is covered.
Scheduling With TMO
Your Transportation Management Office (TMO) or Personal Property Office is the starting point for your HHG shipment. Visit them in person or use the MilMove platform (which is replacing DPS for many branches) to book your move as soon as orders are in hand. You will select a pickup date, a delivery window, and a destination address. During summer peak season, the best pickup dates disappear fast, so booking 8 to 10 weeks out is ideal. TMO will assign a moving company — you do not get to choose the carrier, but you can request specific dates. If your schedule changes, contact TMO immediately to adjust. Refer to the PCS checklist for the full sequence of TMO tasks.
Pack-Out Day Tips
On pack-out day, the moving crew will pack and load your entire home — usually over one to two days. Before they arrive, separate anything you do not want shipped: important documents, medications, valuables, and your essentials bags. Label rooms and items clearly. Be present for the entire process and watch what goes into each box. Take photos and video of high-value items before they are packed. When the crew completes the inventory sheet, review every line item before signing. Note the condition of each item accurately — writing “PBO” (packed by owner) next to items you packed yourself can affect claims later.
What Cannot Be Shipped
Movers will not transport hazardous materials, including ammunition, firearms (check branch-specific policies), propane tanks, gasoline, paints, pesticides, and perishable food. Opened bottles of alcohol and plants are also prohibited on most HHG shipments. Firearms may be shipped with proper documentation depending on your branch and destination, but many service members prefer to transport them personally. For OCONUS shipments, additional restrictions may apply based on host nation customs regulations. If you plan a PPM (DITY) move for a portion of your belongings, you can transport some of these restricted items yourself.
Filing Claims for Damaged or Missing Items
Despite best efforts, damage happens during military moves. When your goods are delivered, inspect every item and note any damage or missing articles on the delivery inventory form. Do not sign off until you have checked everything. You have 75 days from the delivery date to file a claim through the Defense Personal Property System. Include clear photos of the damage, the original inventory form showing the item's pre-move condition, and receipts or fair market value estimates for each item. Claims for loss or damage during government-arranged moves are covered by the Military Claims Act up to the item's depreciated value. For tips on the full move process, read the PCS guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HHG weight allowance for my rank?
Weight allowances range from 5,000 pounds for E-1 without dependents up to 18,000 pounds for O-10 and senior enlisted with dependents. The allowance includes all household goods shipped by the government. Going over your weight limit means you pay the excess cost out of pocket, so declutter before pack-out.
How far in advance should I schedule my HHG shipment?
Schedule with TMO or through MilMove as soon as you receive orders, ideally 8 or more weeks before your move date. During peak PCS season from May through August, pickup slots can fill 6 to 10 weeks out. The earlier you book, the more flexibility you have with dates.
What happens if my household goods are damaged during the move?
Inspect every item at delivery and note all damage on the delivery inventory form. You have 75 days from the delivery date to file a claim through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). Include photos and receipts or estimated replacement values. Claims are typically resolved within 30 to 60 days.
Can I do a partial DITY move and partial HHG shipment?
Yes. A split shipment lets you send some items via government HHG and move the rest yourself in a PPM (DITY) move. This is common when you want immediate access to essentials while the bulk of your goods are in transit. You will be reimbursed for the PPM portion based on the government cost estimate for that weight.
Get Ready for Your HHG Shipment
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