Military PCS Relocation Basics: Your Step‑by‑Step Guide to a Smooth Permanent Change of Station

Military PCS relocation is part of the lifestyle for service members and their families—but even if you’ve moved before, each Permanent Change of Station can feel overwhelming. New orders, tight timelines, unfamiliar acronyms, and big decisions about housing, schools, and movers all hit at once. Understanding the basics of PCS relocation helps you stay in control, reduce stress, and protect your time, money, and sanity during the move.

Understanding Military PCS Orders and What They Mean

Before you start sorting closets or calling movers, you need to understand your PCS orders. Those orders define your destination, timeline, entitlements, and what the government will and will not cover.

What Is a PCS (Permanent Change of Station)?

A PCS is an official relocation of an active-duty service member from one duty station to another, usually lasting more than 20 weeks. Unlike a temporary duty (TDY), a PCS typically means moving your household, changing your home of record for the duration, and possibly relocating your dependents.

Key Information on Your PCS Orders

When you receive your orders, review them carefully. You’re looking for critical details that will guide your planning:

• Gaining installation and location: Your new duty station (base, post, or ship).
• Report date: The latest date you must check in at the new duty station.
• Authorized dependents: Who is included in your move benefits.
• Type of move: Government-arranged, Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), or a combination.
• Travel and transportation entitlements: What the government will pay for (mileage, per diem, temporary lodging, etc.).

Common Types of PCS Moves

Not all PCS moves are the same. Understanding which type you’re assigned (or choose) will shape your planning.

Type of Move	Description	Best For
Government-arranged (HHG)	The military contracts a moving company to pack, load, ship, and deliver your household goods.	Families who prefer less physical labor and more turnkey service.
Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY)	You handle the move yourself (rent truck, hire movers, etc.) and get reimbursed based on a percentage of what the government would have paid.	Those who want more control or hope to profit by moving efficiently.
Partial PPM	Some items moved by the government; some moved by you for reimbursement.	Families with special items, tight timing, or split households.
Overseas PCS (OCONUS)	Move to a location outside the continental U.S.; often involves shipment of household goods, unaccompanied baggage, and possibly a privately owned vehicle.	Service members assigned to overseas bases or posts.

PCS Allowances and Entitlements: Know What’s Covered

One of the most important PCS basics is understanding allowances: which costs the military will reimburse and where you’ll need to budget out-of-pocket. Knowing this early helps you avoid financial surprises.

Common PCS Entitlements

While the exact entitlements vary by rank, dependency status, and distance, here are the major categories:

• Travel allowance: Mileage if you drive, or tickets if you fly. Usually includes per diem for meals and incidentals.
• Dislocation Allowance (DLA): A one-time payment to help offset miscellaneous relocation costs.
• Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) / Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA): Helps cover short-term housing at the old and/or new station while you’re house-hunting or waiting for your household goods.
• Household goods (HHG) shipment: The cost of shipping your household goods up to a weight limit based on rank and dependents.
• Personally Procured Move reimbursement: If doing a PPM, you’ll be reimbursed based on the authorized weight and distance.

Weight Limits and Why They Matter

PCS weight limits are often overlooked until it’s too late. Every pound you ship counts toward your authorized maximum, and exceeding it can be expensive.

Situation	Why It Matters	Practical Tip
Approaching weight limit	Excess weight can result in out-of-pocket charges.	Declutter aggressively; donate or sell heavy items before the move.
Multiple prior PCS moves	It’s easy to accumulate more and more stuff over time.	Conduct a yearly “PCS readiness” purge, even between moves.
Large family	More people usually means more belongings.	Use a household inventory and prioritize essential items.

How to Confirm Your Entitlements

Do not rely on word-of-mouth alone. To verify your exact entitlements:

• Visit your local transportation office or Personal Property Office.
• Review online resources specific to your branch.
• Request written confirmation of authorized weight, travel days, and allowances.

Creating a PCS Timeline and Checklist

A PCS feels chaotic if you handle it day to day. A simple timeline and checklist turn a stressful relocation into a series of manageable steps. Even with short-notice orders, planning by week or milestone can keep you on track.

Sample PCS Timeline

Timeframe	Key Tasks
8–10 weeks before report date	Review orders, verify entitlements, research new duty station, start decluttering.
6–8 weeks before	Schedule movers or arrange PPM, update important documents, research housing and schools.
4–6 weeks before	Notify landlords, arrange pet vaccinations, book temporary lodging, start organizing non-essentials.
2–4 weeks before	Confirm moving dates, change of address prep, arrange utility shut‑off and activation.
1 week before	Pack travel essentials, separate important documents, supervise final home tasks.
Arrival and first 2 weeks	Check in at new duty station, conduct move-in inspection, file any damage claims, register kids in school.

Essential PCS Checklist Items

Customize your PCS checklist, but make sure it includes these basics:

• Personal documents: Orders, IDs, passports, medical and school records, marriage/birth certificates.
• Housing tasks: Notice to landlord, base housing application or rental search, move-out cleaning plan.
• Financial planning: Review allowances, estimate out-of-pocket costs, build a PCS savings buffer.
• Family coordination: Discuss roles, responsibilities, and expectations with your spouse/partner.
• Vehicle prep: Maintenance, insurance updates, and, for overseas, shipping arrangements.

Government Move vs. PPM (DITY): Choosing the Right Option

One core PCS decision is whether to let the government manage your household goods move or to do a PPM. Each option has trade-offs in time, money, and control.

Government-Arranged Move: Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Less physical labor and logistics for you.
  • Professional packing and loading of your household goods.
  • Claims process in place if items are lost or damaged.
• Cons:
  • Less control over schedule and how items are packed.
  • Potential for missed delivery windows or delays.
  • Limited say in which moving company is assigned.

Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY): Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • More control over timing and process.
  • Possibility of earning money if your move costs less than the reimbursement.
  • Greater oversight of how your belongings are packed and handled.
• Cons:
  • More planning, coordination, and physical work.
  • Upfront costs that are reimbursed later.
  • Responsibility for hiring reputable movers or renting trucks.

How to Decide Which PCS Move Type Is Right for You

Use these questions to guide your decision:

• Do you have the time and physical ability to manage a PPM?
• Are you comfortable fronting some costs and waiting for reimbursement?
• How important is control over packing, timing, and how your items are treated?
• Have you moved before and learned what works best for your family?

If you decide to take on a PPM, consider partnering with an experienced moving company that understands military timelines and expectations. A trusted team like United Local Movers can handle the heavy lifting while you focus on your orders and your family. Call today to discuss flexible options that work with your PCS entitlements and schedule.

Packing Strategies and Organizing Your Household for PCS

Packing is where your PCS becomes real—every item you own must be packed, listed, moved, and unpacked. Whether the government packs you or you’re doing it yourself, planning ahead can prevent damage, confusion, and stress later.

Decluttering Before a PCS

Every PCS is an opportunity to lighten your load. You don’t want to unpack items you don’t use in yet another home.

• Sort by category: Clothes, toys, kitchenware, tools, etc.
• Use a four-box method: Keep, donate, sell, trash.
• Set a time limit: For example, if you haven’t used it in a year, seriously consider letting it go.

Creating an Inventory

An inventory lists what you own and helps in several ways: filing claims, staying organized, and knowing what’s in each box. You don’t need a perfect spreadsheet, but you should have:

• Room-by-room list: Not every fork needs to be listed, but big-ticket items and box counts should be.
• Photos of valuables: Take clear photos (and serial numbers) for electronics, jewelry, and expensive items.
• Copy stored safely: Keep digital copies accessible from your phone or cloud storage.

Packing Essentials and “Do Not Pack” Items

Even during a full-service government move, there are certain things you should pack and carry yourself, including:

• Important documents (orders, IDs, medical and school records).
• Medications and medical equipment.
• Sentimental items and irreplaceable keepsakes.
• Basic toiletries, a few changes of clothes, and kids’ comfort items (toys, blankets).
• Pet supplies and paperwork.

Clearly label a “Do Not Pack” zone in your home when movers arrive. Place everything you’re taking with you in this area, and inform the crew at the start of the day.

Labeling Boxes for an Easier Unpack

The time you spend labeling boxes now saves hours later. Helpful labeling strategies include:

• Room and category: Example: “Kitchen – Pots & Pans” or “Bedroom 2 – Linens.”
• Priority level: Mark “Open First” on boxes you’ll need immediately.
• Color-coded tape or stickers: Assign a color to each room for fast sorting on delivery day.

PCS with Kids, Pets, and Special Situations

A PCS relocation affects every member of your household—including children and pets. Extra planning and communication help make the transition smoother and less stressful for everyone.

Helping Kids Through a PCS Move

Kids may struggle with leaving friends, familiar schools, and routines. You can ease the transition by:

• Talking early and honestly: Explain what’s happening and involve them in age-appropriate decisions.
• Researching schools and activities: Show them photos and information about the new area.
• Creating a goodbye ritual: Host a small gathering or help them exchange contact info with friends.
• Letting them help: Have them pack a special “first night” box with favorite toys, books, or games.

PCS with Pets

Your pets feel the changes too. Ensure they’re safe and cared for throughout the move:

• Update vaccinations and obtain required health certificates.
• Check pet policies at new housing and lodging.
• Prepare a pet go-bag with food, bowls, medications, toys, and leashes.
• During travel, prioritize regular breaks, hydration, and secure carriers or harnesses.

PCS in Special Circumstances

Some situations require extra planning:

• Difficult medical needs: Coordinate with the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) and ensure medical records are transferred early.
• Overseas or remote assignments: Research cultural differences, climate, and availability of services well before arrival.
• Unaccompanied tours: Plan carefully for dependents staying behind, including housing, schooling, and support networks.

Moving Day and Delivery: What to Expect

Moving day is the culmination of your PCS planning. Knowing what to expect when movers arrive—and when they deliver—helps you protect your belongings and reduce misunderstandings.

On Packing and Loading Day

Whether government-provided or a PPM with a professional mover, follow these steps:

• Walk-through with the crew leader: Show them your home, special items, and “Do Not Pack” area.
• Review inventory sheets: Make sure high-value items are accurately listed and described.
• Stay available: Be on-site to answer questions, authorize decisions, and verify labeling.
• Final sweep: Before the truck leaves, walk every room, closet, and outdoor area.

Delivery and Unpacking

When your belongings arrive at your new duty station:

• Confirm your identity and the shipment number before unloading begins.
• Check items off the inventory list as they come in.
• Direct boxes and furniture to the correct rooms.
• Inspect for obvious damage and note it immediately on the forms.

You don’t need to find every scratch on delivery day, but you should mark anything major. Then, unpack methodically over the next days and weeks, documenting issues for a claims filing if necessary.

Settling In After Your PCS: Building Your New Routine

The PCS doesn’t end when the last box is inside. Settling into your new community is just as important as the logistics of getting there. This phase is where your family’s quality of life at the new duty station really takes shape.

Administrative To-Dos After Arrival

Once you arrive and check in, you’ll still have a few key tasks:

• Complete in-processing at your new unit or command.
• Register vehicles and update driver’s licenses if required by the state.
• Enroll children in school and transfer any IEPs or special plans.
• Update your address with banks, TRICARE, insurance, and subscriptions.

Creating a Sense of Home

Practical steps to help your new duty station feel like home:

• Set up familiar spaces quickly—kids’ rooms, a cozy living area, or a family dining spot.
• Explore nearby parks, grocery stores, and community centers.
• Attend newcomer briefings or spouse support events offered on base.
• Establish routines such as weekly family nights or weekend outings.

Leaning on Community and Professional Help

You don’t have to handle your PCS alone. Use available support resources:

• Installation family support offices and relocation assistance programs.
• Spouse clubs, unit family readiness groups, and online communities.
• Professional movers experienced with military PCS schedules and expectations.

Working with a reliable, military-friendly mover can make each PCS less stressful and more predictable. United Local Movers provides flexible moving options, careful handling, and clear communication so you can focus on your mission and your family. To plan your upcoming PCS with confidence, contact United Local Movers today at 903 E Main St #210, Auburn, WA 98002, or call +1 877-379-1771.

Key Takeaways: PCS Basics for a Smoother Move

Military PCS relocation will always bring change—but it doesn’t have to bring chaos. When you understand your orders, know your entitlements, create a realistic timeline, and choose the right moving support, you can turn a stressful requirement into a well-managed transition. Stay organized, ask questions early, and don’t hesitate to lean on trusted professionals and your military community every step of the way.