Blog > PCS Checklist: Navigating Your First Military Move
Relocating is a hallmark of military life. A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be an exciting but daunting adventure, especially for first-timers. Planning and preparation are key to ensuring a smooth transition. Here's a comprehensive PCS checklist to guide you through your first military move.
1. Orders in Hand: The Starting Point
The foundation of your PCS process is receiving your official orders. These documents contain critical information, including your destination, report date, and entitlements. Review your orders thoroughly and keep multiple copies readily accessible.
2. Entitlements and Allowances: Know Your Benefits
Understanding your entitlements is crucial. These may include:
- Transportation of Household Goods (HHG): You can have your belongings shipped to your new location. The weight allowance varies by rank and family status.
- Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE): This covers lodging and meal expenses during the transition.
- Dislocation Allowance (DLA): A lump sum to help with moving costs.
- Travel Allowance: Covers the cost of travel from your old station to the new one.
Consult the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) website or your Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) for detailed information on your entitlements.
3. Housing: Plan Your Living Situation
Decide whether you'll live on-base or off-base. On-base housing provides convenience and community but may have waitlists. Off-base housing offers more choices but requires more legwork. Use resources like the Housing Service Office (HSO) for on-base options and websites like AHRN.com for off-base rentals.
4. Move Planning: Self-Move vs. Government-Managed
You can let the government manage the move or do it yourself (a Personally Procured Move, PPM). A PPM can be more work but potentially more profitable if you spend less than the government's allowance. Decide early and make arrangements accordingly.
5. Inventory Your Belongings
Whether opting for a government-managed move or a PPM, inventorying your belongings is essential. Document the condition of your items with photos or videos. This will be invaluable for any claims for damage or loss.
6. Important Documents: Keep Them Close
Carry important documents with you during the move. These include marriage and birth certificates, medical and school records, and your orders. Consider a lockable, fireproof box for physical documents and cloud storage for digital copies.
7. Family and Pets: Ensure Their Comfort
If moving with family, discuss the move openly, focusing on the positives. For pets, check vaccination and microchip requirements at your new location. Plan for pet-friendly accommodations if traveling by car or look into airline policies if flying.
8. Financial Preparedness: Budget for Unexpected Costs
Even with allowances and entitlements, unexpected costs can arise. Set aside savings to cover unforeseen expenses such as rental deposits or new uniforms. Notify your bank and credit card companies of the move to avoid fraud alerts on your accounts.
9. Vehicle Transportation
Decide whether to drive, ship, or sell your vehicle. If moving overseas, verify your car meets the destination country’s specifications. Consider the wear and tear and costs associated with driving long distances for continental moves.
10. Networking and Research: Connect and Learn
Contact contacts at your new location or find social media groups related to your new base for insights and advice. Research schools, medical facilities, and local amenities to ease the transition for your family.
11. Final Arrangements at Your Current Station
- Notify your landlord or housing office of your departure date.
- Schedule the disconnect of utilities and request final bills.
- Forward your mail through the United States Postal Service.
- Complete checkout procedures on base.
12. Arrival and Check-in Procedures
Upon arrival, check-in at your new command as soon as possible. Visit the housing office, enroll children in school, and register pets. Familiarize yourself with the new base and its support systems.
Conclusion
A PCS move is more marathon than a sprint, requiring careful planning and execution. By following this checklist, you're setting the foundation for a successful transition. Remember, resources like Military OneSource and your base's relocation assistance office are there to help every step of the way. Embrace the adventure and opportunities that come with your first military move, knowing you're prepared for the journey ahead.