Army PCS Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Moving to a new duty station? Here's everything you need to know about the Army PCS process in one place.

A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is a structured relocation for Army service members and their families. It involves moving household goods, arranging travel, and settling into a new home. While it can be challenging, this guide simplifies the process to help you manage every step effectively.

Key Steps for a Smooth PCS:

• Understand Your PCS Orders: Review report dates, travel details, dependent authorizations, and benefits like transportation allowance and lodging expenses.
• Plan Early: Start decluttering 4 months before the move, measure furniture, and create a timeline for packing and logistics.
• Arrange Moving Services: Use platforms like MOD24 for licensed movers and auto transport options.
• Settle In: Secure housing, set up utilities, and keep receipts for reimbursements.

Quick Tips:

• Use your PCS benefits wisely (e.g., Dislocation Allowance, Per Diem).
• Stay organized by tracking expenses and timelines.
• Leverage tools like MOD24 for discounts and verified services.

This guide walks you through all phases - from understanding orders to settling into your new home - so you can focus on a stress-free transition.

How To Do a PCS Move

Step 1: Reading Your PCS Orders

Your PCS orders are packed with important details that can make or break your move. Take the time to read them carefully. Here's a breakdown to help you focus on the essentials.

Key Parts of PCS Orders

The specifics in your orders directly affect how you plan your move. Pay close attention to these points:

• Report Date: The date you need to report to your new duty station.
• Transportation Information: Approved travel methods for you and your family.
• Dependent Information: Travel authorizations for your dependents.
• Weight Allowance: The maximum weight of household items you're allowed to ship.
• Special Instructions: Any unique requirements or restrictions tied to your move.
• Fund Citations: Codes that cover travel and transportation expenses.

CONUS vs. OCONUS Moves

• CONUS (Continental United States): Typically follows standard moving procedures.
• OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States): Involves extra paperwork like passports, visas, and permits for your destination. Additional steps may also apply for dependents.

Knowing these differences ensures you complete your paperwork correctly and avoid delays.

Your Move Benefits

Your PCS orders also outline the benefits you're entitled to during your move, such as:

• Transportation Allowance: Covers airfare or mileage costs for your travel.
• Temporary Lodging Expenses (TLE): Helps pay for short-term lodging during your transition.
• Dislocation Allowance (DLA): Provides financial support for relocation costs.
• Per Diem: A daily allowance for meals and incidental expenses.

Go through your orders to see what benefits apply to you. If anything is unclear, reach out to your military support office for guidance.

Step 2: Planning Your Move

4-Month Moving Timeline

Here’s a breakdown of what to tackle leading up to your move:

• 4 Months Before: Go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need. This will lighten your load and make packing easier.
• 2 Months Before: Measure your furniture and create a floor plan for your new space. This ensures your larger items will fit where you want them.
• 1 Month Before: Start packing non-essential items, carefully wrap fragile belongings, and clearly label boxes by room for easier unpacking.

Following these steps will help set you up for a hassle-free move.

sbb-itb-290b89d

Step 3: Moving Your Belongings

Booking Moving Services

When it comes to moving your household items during a PCS move, dependable moving services are a must. While the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is the go-to platform for military families, you can also check out MOD24. This platform connects you with licensed, insured, and verified moving companies. You can compare quotes and confirm licensing and insurance details to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Car Transport Options

Transporting your vehicle is another important part of a PCS move. MOD24 also provides access to licensed auto transport services. Before shipping your car, make sure to remove personal belongings, document any existing damage, and handle any necessary maintenance.

Travel Planning

Planning your family's travel takes some effort. Keep your travel orders handy, arrange temporary lodging at both departure and arrival points if needed, and track all per diem expenses like meals, lodging, fuel, and tolls to ensure you get reimbursed quickly.

MOD24's VIP membership offers perks like discounts on cross-country moves, free storage, insurance coverage, and professional packing services.

Step 4: Arrival Procedures

Once you've handled your belongings, it's time to settle into your new home.

Setting Up Housing

When you arrive at your new duty station, securing housing should be a top priority.

If you're planning to live on base, head to the Housing Office to check availability and submit your application. For off-base housing, the Housing Office can provide the necessary paperwork, including details about your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and information about the local area.

Reach out to utility providers as soon as possible to set up essential services. Many providers offer military discounts or waive deposits if you provide the proper documentation. Key utilities to arrange include:

• Electricity
• Water
• Gas (if needed)
• Internet or cable
• Trash collection (for off-base residents)

Make sure to keep all receipts for deposits and connection fees. These will be important when filing your PCS claim.

Step 5: Moving Success Tips

Money Management

Set up a moving budget that accounts for both reimbursable and non-reimbursable expenses. Keep receipts for costs like transportation, temporary lodging, utility deposits, moving supplies, and storage. This will help you stay organized and track your spending.

Pre-Move Cleanup

Getting rid of unnecessary items before moving can save you money and reduce stress. Start organizing a few months ahead by tackling one room at a time:

• Measure your furniture and compare it to your new home's layout to see what fits.
• Take apart furniture and appliances if possible. Label the parts and pack them separately for easier reassembly.

Once everything is sorted, hire professional movers to handle the rest of your PCS process.

Moving Help Through MOD24

MOD24 simplifies your PCS move by connecting you with trusted movers. Designed with military families in mind, this platform offers several key benefits:

Feature	Benefit
Licensed Movers	Verified and insured moving companies
Online Booking	Reserve your movers in under 10 minutes
Military Benefits	Special discounts for service members
Premium Support	Help with schedule changes and more

MOD24 also offers a membership program packed with perks specifically for military families:

• $200 off cross-country moves
• One month of free storage
• $100 insurance for your TV
• 20% off packing supplies
• VIP concierge service for added convenience

When booking through MOD24, provide accurate details about your move size and needs. This ensures you get precise quotes and a smooth relocation experience.

Summary

Making a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move successful requires detailed planning and organization. Here's how to get started:

Begin by carefully reviewing your orders, understanding your entitlements, and deciding whether to opt for a military-coordinated move or a Personally Procured Move (PPM). Stick to your moving timeline to stay on track.

When it comes to relocating your belongings, work with licensed and insured movers. Platforms like MOD24 make the process easier by connecting you with verified moving companies that offer competitive pricing and military-specific perks. Their dedicated customer support can assist with schedule changes or unique requirements.

Upon arrival, ensure your documentation is ready and have a clear plan for setting up housing. Keep all receipts and document any damage to streamline reimbursements. These steps will help you stay organized and prepared during your transition.

Key Resources for Each Phase:

Phase	Essential Actions
Planning	Declutter and organize your belongings
Moving	Hire verified movers, arrange transport
Arrival	Set up housing and utilities
Support	Use military and moving assistance