PCS Checklist 2026 — Complete Military Move Guide

📋 90–120 Days Before PCS

• Receive and verify your orders — confirm RNLTD date
• Contact losing unit S1/PSD to start out-processing checklist
• Request a sponsor at your gaining unit or installation
• Calculate your new BAH at BaseNeed BAH Calculator
• Apply for on-base housing immediately (preserves waitlist position)
• Start researching off-base neighborhoods near your new installation
• Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) — enroll children ASAP
• Register for Child Development Center (CDC) waitlist if needed
• Begin spouse employment research (USAJOBS, SEAP program)
• Get medical/dental records in order — request copies of all records
• Update your SGLI life insurance beneficiaries and coverage amount
• Update your vehicle insurance to cover the new state
• Notify your bank and update your mailing address if needed

📦 60 Days Before PCS

• Book your HHG shipment through DPS at move.mil — don't wait
• Decide: government move (GHC), PPM/DITY, or combination
• Get your vehicle ready for transport if needed (VAT inspection)
• Begin decluttering — the government pays by weight; donate/sell extras
• Research temporary lodging at your new installation (TLF/IHG)
• Photograph all valuables for insurance claims (before moving)
• Gather important documents: birth certificates, SS cards, passports, marriage certificate
• Contact your landlord or on-base housing office — notice to vacate
• Research utility providers at your new location; schedule start dates
• Notify school of withdrawal date and request records transfer

🏠 30 Days Before PCS

• Pack "open first" / first-night boxes — essentials to survive delivery wait
• Complete all medical and dental appointments (TRICARE enrollment transfer)
• Clear all items from shared storage, lockers, and cleared unit equipment
• Arrange vehicle insurance for the new state before arrival
• Confirm HHG pickup date with carrier and do a final walk-through inventory
• Complete losing installation out-processing (get stamped orders)
• Settle all debts: library books, gym fees, housing fees, parking tickets
• Exchange foreign currency if PCS is OCONUS
• Plan your travel route and make hotel/lodging reservations
• Update your address with USPS, banks, subscriptions, and DFAS

🚛 Day of / During Move

• Photograph EVERY item as movers pack it — document condition before shipment
• Be present and watch the movers — note any existing damage on the inventory sheet
• Do NOT sign the Bill of Lading without noting any concerns in writing
• Keep your "open first" boxes and carry-ons separate from HHG
• Travel with: orders (10+ copies), ID cards, passports, vehicle title, medical records
• Take meter readings and photograph your old home before departure
• Keep all receipts: hotels, meals, gas — you may be reimbursed via DPS

✅ Within 30 Days of Arrival

• Complete garrison in-processing (typically 2–5 business days)
• Finance: activate BAH for new location — double-check your LES
• Medical: enroll family members in TRICARE at new MTF or civilian network
• Update your ID cards if needed (verify expiration dates)
• Register vehicles in the new state (typically 30-day window)
• Get your driver's license updated for the new state
• Inspect ALL HHG delivery for damage — file claims within 75 days (move.mil)
• Enroll children in school — contact SLO if needed
• Connect with other families at your installation on BaseNeed
• Browse local housing listings if you're still in temporary lodging
• Update your emergency contact information with your new unit

PCS Resources on BaseNeed

• → BAH Calculator 2026 — Calculate your exact housing allowance by base and pay grade
• → Military Base Guides — PCS guides, housing market, amenities for every installation
• → Military Housing Listings — Verified off-base housing near any installation
• → Military Spouse Jobs — Employment near your new duty station
• → PCS Community — Connect with families at your next installation

PCS FAQ 2026