PCS & Moving
The Ultimate Military PCS Guide: A Step-by-Step Checklist for Families (2025)
A comprehensive guide covering every aspect of PCS moves, from financial planning to emotional support for children. Learn from families who have completed successful moves worldwide.
By BaseNeed Staff Steven Smith · January 15, 2025 · 3 min read read
PCS Moving Military Life Families Housing
# The Ultimate Military PCS Guide
Introduction
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is far more than a logistical process—it is a life-changing event that fundamentally reshapes the daily reality of military families. After speaking with hundreds of military families, one thing is clear: families who prepare strategically achieve PCS success.
Getting Started: You Have Orders, Now What?
The First 48 Hours
- Request your official orders in writing
- Contact your gaining installation housing office
- Calculate your entitlements at the DFAS website
- Notify your current landlord or base housing office
Timeline Checklist (90 Days Out)
90 Days Before Move Date: - Schedule TMO/transportation appointment - Begin decluttering and donate/sell unwanted items - Research schools at the new duty station - Start the VA home loan pre-approval process if buying
60 Days Before: - Pack non-essential items - Transfer medical/dental records - Update beneficiary information in MyPay - Notify financial institutions of upcoming address change
30 Days Before: - Complete final walkthrough with housing office - Confirm travel arrangements and hotel reservations - Update vehicle registration and driver license plans - Arrange pet transportation if needed
Financial Planning
What Is Covered vs. What Is Not
Covered Expenses: - Household goods shipment (up to weight limit) - Dislocation Allowance (DLA) - Per Diem during travel - Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for up to 60 days
Common Out-of-Pocket Costs: - Utility deposits at new location - Pet deposits - Items over weight limit - Non-temporary storage beyond entitlement
BAH Transition Tips
Your BAH rate changes on the day you report to your new duty station. Plan your finances to account for the gap between old and new BAH rates during the transition period.
School Enrollment for Military Children
The Interstate Compact for Military Children (MIC3) protects your children during transitions. Key protections include: - Enrollment cannot be denied due to missing immunization records (grace period applies) - Students can graduate from their home state requirements even if they move mid-year - Sports eligibility cannot be denied due to a move
Emotional Well-being During PCS
Moving is consistently ranked as one of life's most stressful events. Military families face this every 2-3 years on average.
Tips for Families: - Give children agency in the new home setup - Research clubs and activities at the new location before you arrive - Connect with the base Family Readiness Officer - Use Military OneSource for free counseling sessions