A permanent change of station (PCS) can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you’re a military service member, a government employee, or simply relocating for a new job, moving your life to a new location can bring several challenges and adjustments. From settling into a new community to understanding new financial needs, PCS requires planning and adaptability.
What to Know About Your PCS Orders
Understanding orders and entitlements is crucial for service members. It ensures they receive the necessary support, benefits, and reimbursement for the relocation, facilitating a smoother transition for both the individual and their family.
What Is a PCS?
A PCS move involves relocating military personnel, government employees, and their families to a new station, typically for over 180 days. PCS orders are longer than temporary duty assignments and involve integrating into a new community for an extended period. There are two main types of PCS moves: CONUS (Continental United States) and OCONUS (Outside Continental United States). CONUS relocations mean moving within the continental United States, while OCOUS moves mean relocating to duty stations outside the United States. Both come with their own unique set of challenges. CONUS relocations present challenges with coordinating household goods transportation and adjusting to new communities. OCONUS moves often mean adapting to new cultures, languages, customs, and complex shipping and paperwork.
What Does PCS Mean?
PCS military moves are often important to the career profession, allowing military personnel to complete new assignments, support mission objectives, and gain diverse skills and experiences. PCS military moves help military personnel be more adaptable to thrive in different environments and build strong professional networks and relationships. PCS moves also support the distribution of personnel so that resources are effectively allocated to meet operational needs.
When Do You Receive PCS Orders?
The timing of when service members receive PCS orders depends on various factors, such as the specific branch, the assignment, and the personnel management process. For some service members, PCS orders may come every few years as they rotate through different duty stations. Others may have longer assignments at a particular location, especially if they have specialized roles.
How to Prepare for a Military PCS Move
Preparing for a PCS military move requires in-depth planning and following some essential key steps.
Step 1: Receiving Orders
After receiving a PCS order, service members should thoroughly review it to understand important details such as reporting dates, entitlements, and special instructions. It is important to pay close attention to deadlines and requirements to avoid delays or complications.
Step 2: Setting Up a Move
Contact the assigned transportation office to initiate the move process. Attend pre-move counseling offered by the military installation to gather information on entitlements, allowances, and available support services. Based on personal preferences and circumstances, decide whether you want a self-move or government-managed move and communicate the choice to the transportation office.
Step 3: Organizing Transportation
Work with the transportation office to coordinate household goods shipment to the new station. Provide necessary information, such as desired move dates, inventory of items to be transported, and special requirements or considerations. Make sure all paperwork related to transportation arrangements is correctly completed and submitted on time.
Step 4: Timelines to Follow
Plan well in advance to allow sufficient preparation time, considering the prescribed timelines provided in the PCS order. Follow timelines, including scheduling transportation, packing, and completing required paperwork timelines. Be aware of any time-sensitive tasks, such as notifying schools or securing temporary lodging.
Pre- and Post-Move Checklists for Your PCS Move
Checklists are helpful tools for ensuring a smooth and organized move. By breaking down tasks into manageable steps, checklists help service members stay on track and avoid overlooking details.
Checklists should include both pre-move and post-move tasks. Some pre-move tasks include organizing and completing all essential documents, such as orders, identification, and medical records. Another pre-move task is to create a comprehensive inventory of household items, noting any pre-existing damages. Include on your checklist to notify key entities of the upcoming move, including schools, healthcare providers, and utility services.
Some post-move tasks include thoroughly inspecting the new residence for any damages and reporting them promptly, updating contact information with the military and other relevant agencies, submitting necessary claims to reimburse authorized expenses incurred during the move, and familiarizing yourself with the new base facilities, community resources, and local support services.
See this checklist from Military.com for a comprehensive list of tasks. To create a custom checklist based on where you are stationed and where you are moving to, see this checklist builder.
Tips for a PCS Move With Others
Navigating a PCS move can be challenging, especially when coordinating with others, such as family members or pets. This is why proper communication and planning are important, and some helpful tips should be kept in mind.
PCS Moving with Pets
There are several key tips when doing a PCS move with pets. Firstly, schedule a pre-move visit to the veterinarian for health certificates, vaccinations, and advice on how to make your pets comfortable and safe on the journey. Researching pet-friendly transportation accommodations is important to ensure you and your pet are prepared for the trip. Packing familiar items such as toys or bedding is another way to ensure your pet feels safe and comfortable during transportation. Also, remember to pack a pet emergency kit with essential supplies and medical records. To prevent your pet from getting lost, update pet tags with current contact information and consider microchipping.
PCS Moving with Family
Moving with family adds another level of difficulty to a PCS move, but it can be done with careful planning and consideration. Open communication with family members to address any concerns or expectations is important throughout the process and also important when it comes to packing. Involve family members in packing decisions and ensure essential items are easily accessible. If you have children, make sure to research schools at the new location and initiate the necessary paperwork for enrollment for a smooth transition. Utilize local Family Support Centers, the Military Family Readiness System, and other programs for information on support groups, resources, and local services. Upon arrival, explore the new community together to promote a sense of familiarity and belonging.
Relocation Resources to Know
The following resources and support services can help you navigate your PCS move:
- Defense Personal Property System (DPS):
The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) streamlines the management of household goods moves and storage during a PCS relocation for Defense Department and Coast Guard service members and their families. The DPS helps service members monitor shipment progress, submit required claims, and plan relocation.
- Military Installations:
MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a resource that offers information on military installations worldwide, including services and support available. This resource helps service members learn about duty stations, check-in procedures, program contacts, and more.
- Family Support Centers:
Local Family Support Centers on base can provide relocation assistance and resources to help make family relocation easier.
- TRICARE:
TRICARE is a health care program for service members and their families. Through this program, service members can access information on healthcare options, including medical, dental, mental health, and prescription care during the relocation process.
- School Liaison Officers (SLOs):
School Liaison Officers facilitate communication between military families, educational support services, and schools. They can provide valuable information and assistance for school transitions, enrollment procedures, and educational resources. Contact the School Liaison Officer at your current or new duty station for assistance with school-related matters.
- Military OneSource:
Military OneSource offers a wide range of resources and support for military families, including relocation assistance. From counseling to financial guidance to career assistance, Military OneSource provides personalized support for service members with online resources and trained consultants ready to assist.
- Base Housing Offices:
Base Housing Offices provide support and resources to service members and families in securing on-base housing accommodations. These offices typically assist with housing applications, maintenance requests, eligibility criteria, community amenities, and lease agreements. Contact the housing office at your current and new duty station for information on housing options and support.
- Transportation Offices:
Transportation offices help coordinate household goods shipment, arrange transportation for service members and their families, and assist with travel-related considerations like scheduling moves, entitlements, and more. Contact your local transportation office for assistance with scheduling and managing your move.
Frequently Asked Questions for PCS
What expenses are covered during a PCS move?
The military typically covers the costs of moving your household goods, transportation, and lodging during a PCS move. Additionally, you may be eligible for per diem allowances.
Can I request a specific duty station during the PCS process?
While preferences can be expressed, the ultimate assignment is based on the military’s needs and requirements. Requests for specific duty stations are considered but may only sometimes be granted.
How can I stay informed about my PCS move?
Maintain open communication with your chain of command and the military personnel office. Check for updates on your orders regularly, and attend any briefings or workshops provided to ensure a smooth transition.
Stay Completely Covered With AmFi Life
Acquiring life insurance during a PCS move provides crucial financial protection for your family in the face of unexpected events. It offers stability during the transitional period, ensuring consistent coverage regardless of location, and addresses the unique risks associated with military life. Understanding entitlements and updating coverage accordingly maximizes the benefits for your loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
American Fidelity Life Insurance offers tailored life insurance policies designed specifically for military personnel and their families. With flexible coverage options and competitive rates, AmFi provides peace of mind that your loved ones are financially protected no matter where your military service takes you. Whether you’re looking for term life insurance for a specific period or more permanent life insurance for lifelong protection, AmFi has you covered with reliable coverage.
