PCS Weight Allowance by Rank

📦 PCS Weight Allowance and Limits [by Grade and Dependents]

When you're assigned to a new duty station for longer than 20 weeks, it’s considered a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). These moves happen frequently across the military—and they’re rarely simple.

If you or your personnel are relocating, knowing your PCS weight allowance is essential. Overestimating what you can move may result in unexpected out-of-pocket costs and delays. This guide breaks down PCS limits by rank and dependents to help you prepare with confidence.

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⚖️ What Is Your PCS Weight Allowance?

Your PCS weight allowance refers to the maximum weight (in pounds) of household goods you can transport under military orders. This limit depends on several factors:

🧍‍♂️ Your marital status

👨‍👩‍👧 Number of dependents

🎖️ Military grade or rank

📅 Years of service

As soon as PCS orders are issued, visit your local transportation office to confirm your weight entitlement. If you’ve been stationed in one place for years, you’ve likely accumulated more than you realize. Start decluttering now to avoid overages.

💡 Tip: Use a DITY move calculator to estimate costs. If you go the DIY route, you can retain any unused funds from your allowance (employee-relocation-allowance).

📊 Military PCS Weight Allowances by Grade

Unaccompanied Baggage (UAB) allows up to 2,000 lbs of essentials you’ll need immediately—clothing, toiletries, electronics—while the rest of your shipment follows.

Grade

Without Dependents

With Dependents

O-10 to O-7

18,000 lbs

18,000 lbs

O-6

18,000 lbs

18,000 lbs

O-5 / W-5

16,000 lbs

17,500 lbs

O-4 / W-4

14,000 lbs

17,000 lbs

O-3 / W-3

13,000 lbs

14,500 lbs

O-2 / W-2

12,500 lbs

13,500 lbs

O-1 / W-1 / Academy Grad

10,000 lbs

12,000 lbs

E-9

13,000 lbs

15,000 lbs

E-8

12,000 lbs

14,000 lbs

E-7

11,000 lbs

13,000 lbs

E-6

8,000 lbs

11,000 lbs

E-5

7,000 lbs

9,000 lbs

E-4

7,000 lbs

8,000 lbs

E-3 and Below

5,000 lbs

8,000 lbs

Aviation Cadets

7,000 lbs

8,000 lbs

Academy Cadets / Midshipmen

350 lbs TDY Allowance

📄 View the official weight allowance table here

🧠 Closing Tips for Staying Under Your PCS Weight Limit

Even if your allowance seems generous, it’s easy to go over. Use these strategies to stay within your limits:

✅ Weigh one room at a time
✅ Declutter and donate unused items
✅ Consider a relocation package negotiation
✅ Split your weight across multiple shipments
✅ Follow a PCS move checklist to track tasks

🎖️ Get Help From the Experts

Previously, USAA offered exclusive relocation perks for military families. Now, CARS provides the same benefits, including real estate assistance and rebates. Learn more about our replacement USAA Movers Advantage Program.

If you're planning a PCS and need help estimating costs or managing logistics, contact CARS today for personalized support.