You may be researching how to plan a military move if you have received permanent change of station orders. If you’ve been recently reassigned, this complete PCS moving checklist will tell you everything you need to know about how to prepare for a military move.
Stewart Moving & Storage originally started as a
military moving company, which is why we have so much experience helping military families with PCS moves. Our military moving experts put together a moving checklist that will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for military movers.
Receive and Verify Your Assignment Notification
A permanent change of station (PCS) is a military term used when an active duty service member is reassigned and relocated to another military installation. A PCS is an involuntary reassignment and can happen quickly, so you will usually need to prepare to move in a short amount of time. However, the military typically aims for at least 120 days’ notice before you need to report to your new station.
The first step of a PCS move is receiving the informal PCS notification regarding the details of your reassignment. Take a little time to research your new location so that you will have a better idea of how you should prepare for the move, but don't make any solid plans until you receive your formal PCS travel orders.
Here are some additional steps you should take after receiving your PCS moving order:
- Notify service providers.
- Contact your local transportation office.
- Create a PCS moving budget.
- Create a PCS moving binder.
Understand Your Assignment Type and Entitlements
Another aspect of how to plan a military move is looking into your assignment type and the benefits that go along with it. Your PCS orders will have details about your assignment and new military location. From there, you will be able to calculate your basic allowance for housing (BAH), which will help you better prepare for your new location.
You may also be able to apply for Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA) benefits as a way of accessing lower interest rates for things like:
- Auto loans
- Student loans
- Personal loans
- Home mortgages
- Installment loans
- Rental agreements
SCRA benefits also mean you can’t be penalized for breaking a lease due to PCS orders.
Schedule Counseling and Create Shipments in DPS
After receiving your PCS orders, there are certain steps you are required to take. One of the first things you should do is to schedule your PCS counseling appointment, which is a requirement. Next, log in to the Defense Personal Property program (DPS), which provides moving and storage services for military families.
You will need to upload your PCS orders into the DPS and choose between an HHG move—a complete household move arranged by the transportation office—or you can choose a PPM, which is a personally procured move that you do yourself and receive reimbursement for.
No matter what type of military move you decide on, make sure you are keeping detailed records of all your moving expenses.
Plan the Details of Your Move
The next step in how to prepare for military movers is to dig a bit deeper into the details of what needs to be moved. Try to keep a detailed PCS binder of all your moving information, as well as any valuables that are being moved.
Schedule the shipment of your belongings and maintain open communication with your military movers. If you have any moving concerns or special instructions, provide them in writing so your movers understand exactly what you want.
It’s a good idea to be present during the packing and loading so that you are able to keep an eye on things.
Also, if you have any pets, you will need to arrange for pet transportation ahead of time. This is also a good time to decide if there are any items that you want to take in your personal vehicle, such as first-day necessities, electronics, or valuables.
Prepare for Arrival and Settle In
One of the best ways to prepare for a military move is to align delivery dates and your temporary lodging, if possible. This ensures that your family can settle in comfortably and have what they need upon arrival.
You should also have a designated “open first box,” which will have everything that your family needs immediately in case you aren't able to arrange delivery upon arrival.
Once you receive all of your items, take some time to inspect everything for potential damage. If there is any damage, you should file a damage claim as soon as possible.
Choose Stewart Moving & Storage for Your PCS Move
Knowing how to plan a military move is essential, as a PCS reassignment often requires you to start the moving process quickly. With this checklist that we have provided at Stewart Moving & Storage, you will know exactly how to prepare for a military move.
At Stewart Moving & Storage, we are proud to serve military families across our operating regions, including DE, VA, NC, MD, and FL. Contact our team of moving experts today to learn more about how we can make your military moving experience as smooth as possible.
FAQs about How to Prepare for a Military Move
What will military movers not pack?
There are some strict regulations military movers have regarding what they can and cannot pack. The most commonly prohibited items include things like:
- Firearms
- Pets
- Medications
- Flammable items
- Hazardous materials
- Plants
- Perishable foods
- Explosives/ammunition
- Valuable/irreplaceable documents, items, or jewelry
- Propane
Some items aren't always prohibited, so you can contact your local transportation office for a list of prohibited items specific to your military branch.
How to start a military move?
Before you actually begin the process of moving, take the time to fully understand your PCS orders. Do some research into your assignment type, the benefits you are entitled to, and where you will be relocated.
How long does a military move take?
here is no timeline for how long a military move takes, as it is completely dependent on each individual situation. However, the timeline will usually be impacted by the size of your household, the moving distance, and the delivery time estimate.
Because there is no guaranteed timeline and because PCS orders can be short-notice, you will want to begin the moving process as soon as possible.
