A Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly known as a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move, is an option for service members relocating between duty stations. Instead of relying on the government to handle their move, military personnel can manage their own relocation and receive reimbursement based on the weight of their household goods.
One of the most cost-effective and flexible ways to execute a PPM is by using a personal vehicle, such as a pickup truck. However, it’s essential to understand your truck’s cargo capacity to ensure you maximize efficiency and avoid overloading.
Determining Your Pickup Truck’s Cargo Capacity
Cargo capacity refers to the maximum weight a truck can carry in its bed and cab. To determine how much weight your pickup truck can handle, consider the following factors:
1. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
- The GVWR is the maximum total weight your truck can handle, including passengers, cargo, and fuel.
- This information is typically found in the owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door sticker.
2. Curb Weight
- This is the weight of the truck without passengers or cargo.
- Subtracting the curb weight from the GVWR gives you the payload capacity (how much weight you can add to the truck).
3. Payload Capacity
- The payload capacity includes everything added to the truck beyond its curb weight, such as passengers, luggage, and cargo in the bed.
- Common payload capacities:
- Midsize trucks: 1,000 – 1,500 lbs
- Full-size trucks: 1,500 – 3,500 lbs
- Heavy-duty trucks: 3,500+ lbs
4. Bed Dimensions and Volume
- Standard truck beds come in short (5.5 feet), standard (6.5 feet), and long (8 feet) sizes.
- The volume helps estimate how much furniture, boxes, or equipment will fit.
Maximizing Efficiency for a DITY Move
To make the most of your pickup truck’s cargo space, follow these tips:
1. Use Secure Packing Techniques
- Utilize ratchet straps and tie-downs to prevent shifting during transit.
- Cover items with a tarp to protect them from weather conditions.
2. Load Heavy Items First
- Place heavier boxes and furniture toward the cab to distribute weight evenly.
- Avoid exceeding the truck’s payload capacity.
3. Utilize Vertical Space
- Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier ones.
- Use bed extenders or racks if necessary.
4. Consider a Trailer for Extra Capacity
- If your truck’s cargo space isn’t enough, renting a trailer can increase hauling capability.
- Ensure your truck’s towing capacity allows for the additional load.
Additional Considerations for Military Moves
- Weigh Stations: Ensure you weigh your vehicle before and after loading to determine the official weight of your move for reimbursement.
- Gas Mileage Impact: Carrying a full load will reduce fuel efficiency, so plan accordingly for fuel stops.
- DITY Move Reimbursement: The military reimburses based on weight, so keeping track of receipts and weight tickets is crucial.
Conclusion
Using a pickup truck for a DITY military move can be a practical and cost-saving option if planned correctly. Understanding your truck’s cargo capacity, maximizing space efficiently, and ensuring safety will help make the move smooth and successful. Whether using a midsize truck for a small relocation or a heavy-duty truck for a full household move, strategic packing and proper weight distribution are key to a stress-free move.
If you are looking for DITY PPT Public Scale in Southern California we found this listing:
Los Angeles Public Scales
5244 W. Jefferson Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90016
Phone (310) 432 3980
OPEN: Monday-Friday 9AM-4PM
No Appointment Needed
Google Maps Link – https://maps.app.goo.gl/6TJbYyCMcHQVuXr47