A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move relocates a service member and their household to a new duty station, typically every 2-4 years. The military covers moving costs through various entitlements, but the process requires careful planning across multiple timelines.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Receive and review PCS orders — Read orders carefully for report date, entitlements, special instructions, and any restrictions; note whether orders include dependent travel authorization
- Schedule PCS counseling — Mandatory appointment with your Transportation Office (TO) to review entitlements, weight allowances, and moving options
- Choose your move type — HHG (government arranges everything), PPM/DITY (you move yourself for reimbursement), or a partial combination of both
- Create a move in DPS/MilMove — Log into the Defense Personal Property System or MilMove to schedule your move, select dates, and upload required documents
- Begin household inventory and declutter — Weigh what you own against your weight allowance (varies by rank); donate, sell, or dispose of items you do not need to avoid overweight charges
- Arrange temporary lodging and travel — Book TLE (Temporary Lodging Expense) hotels, plan driving routes, and arrange flights if authorized; file travel advance if needed
- Handle housing at both ends — Give notice to landlord or arrange to sell/rent current home; research housing options at new duty station (on-post, off-post, or purchase using VA loan)
- Transfer records and services — Medical records, dental records, school records for children, pet records, vehicle registration, and driver's license
- Coordinate pack-out and pickup — Be present during packing (typically 1-2 days) and loading; document condition of items with photos and a detailed inventory sheet
- Complete check-out at current duty station — Clear installation, turn in equipment, complete final inspections, and obtain signatures on checkout sheet
Common Mistakes
- Missing weight limits
- Not documenting item condition
- Waiting too long to schedule
- Forgetting to update DEERS
- Not keeping receipts
Pro Tips
- PPM moves can be profitable
- Use the PCS entitlements calculator
- Ship your POV early if going OCONUS
- Keep a PCS binder
- Visit the new duty station's website