Are you wondering how a military move works? Our 2025 moving guide provides some clarity on the different types of military moves and how the entire process works.
Stewart Moving & Storage originally started as a military moving company, which is why we are the experts when it comes to helping military families transition from one military location to the next. We understand how overwhelming this process can feel, so we’ve provided this straightforward moving guide for military families.
What is a Military PCS Move?
Before we discuss how a military move works, what exactly is a PCS move?
PCS stands for permanent change of station, which is a military term used when an active duty service member is reassigned. A PCS order is an involuntary reassignment that relocates service members to a different military installation.
Military PCS moves can be quite intimidating for military families, as this could mean relocating to a new city, state, or country. PCS orders often move quite quickly, requiring you to prepare and sort out moving details in a short amount of time.
At Stewart Moving & Storage, we understand how stressful this can be for military families, which is why we earn your trust through honesty and transparency. By trusting our military moving experts as your partners in this transition, your family can have peace of mind and you can stay focused on your new assignment.
Types of Military Moves
Depending on the circumstances, you may need to pack up and move quickly. To avoid feeling overwhelmed during the moving process or running into issues later on, you will need to decide on the type of military move you want to use:
- Government-Arranged Move (HHG): A HHG move is a government-arranged move where government-contracted military movers help you move your household. They will handle packing, loading, and transporting all of your belongings in a timely manner so that you can relocate with ease. This can help to provide a simplified moving process; however, there are weight limits and other restrictions for HHG moves.
- Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY): A personally procured move is a do-it-yourself option that allows you to either pack up your household yourself or hire your own movers to do so. Although it can be more work, it does provide you with greater flexibility since you will be able to choose everything yourself. You will also be reimbursed for moving expenses up to what a government-arranged military moving company would charge, which means you could profit from the move.
- Partial PPM (Hybrid Option): The last option is a partial PPM, which allows you to combine a PPM and HHG move. When you use this option, you can have military movers pack and transport a portion of your belongings, while you take the rest in your personal vehicle. This can help you get around the HHG weight limit with the possibility of getting some of your moving expenses reimbursed.
How Does a PCS Military Move Work?
Here is a breakdown of each step you need to take from the moment you receive your PCS orders to your arrival in your new location.
Receive PCS Orders
You will first receive an informal PCS order detailing your reassignment and your new military location. Carefully review this, as it can impact certain details of the moving arrangements you will need to make later on.
Remember, the informal PCS order is only the first notice you will get, and you may not be able to schedule your move until you receive your official orders.
Set Up Your PCS Moving Schedule
The next step you will need to take after receiving your PCS orders is to begin building your moving schedule. To do this, contact the transportation office and set up your Defense Property System account, or DPS.
There are many other military resources available that can help you prepare for your new assignment and location.
Packing and Loading by Movers or Yourself
How the moving process goes will depend on the moving option you have chosen. You and your family may choose to handle all the packing, loading, and transportation on your own, or you may be able to leave this work to a military moving company.
No matter what option you choose, make sure everything is packed securely and that you have a “first day” box set aside with necessities you will need upon arrival.
Delivery and Unpacking at New Duty Station
Try to line up delivery with your family's arrival in your new location or temporary lodging. Doing so will help create a smoother transition, allowing you to quickly begin unpacking and settling in.
Also, as you begin unpacking, keep an eye out for any lost or damaged items so that you can file a damage claim.
Start Your PCS Move With Stewart Moving & Storage
Navigating how a military move works can come with challenges, especially if you are under time constraints after receiving PCS orders. At Stewart Moving & Storage, we specialize in military moving services and have earned a reputation for transparency, reliability, and honesty.
Here are some of our military moving services your family could benefit from:
- Packing and unpacking
- Military moving coordinators
- DOD-approved storage
- Expert moving teams
Contact our team today to learn more about how we can help you with your reassignment.
FAQs About How a Military Move Works
How much does the military pay for a move?
The military will often provide full or partial reimbursement for your moving costs. To get the best reimbursement amount, you will need to keep a detailed record of all of your moving expenses.
What will military movers not pack?
Military movers have regulations regarding items that they cannot pack, which usually include hazardous items or items that can expire during transportation. The most commonly prohibited items include:
- Valuables and jewelry
- Firearms
- Medications
- Pets
- Plants
- Perishable items
- Explosives and ammunition
- Flammable items
- Hazardous materials
- Irreplaceable documents
Keep in mind that there are some exceptions to this list, and it is often dependent on what items are prohibited by your specific military branch. To learn more, you can contact your transportation office for an accurate list of prohibited items.
When do you receive PCS orders?
Most active duty service members can expect to receive PCS orders every 2 to 4 years, especially during peak PCS season. Typically, you’ll get PCS orders at least 120 days before you need to report to your new station.
