Military Move This Summer? Top Tips for Your PCS

The summer PCS season is underway!

If this is your first military move, (or even if it’s your fifth) picking up and transitioning your life from one location to another is challenging. One thing I’ve learned in nearly 20 years as a military spouse and six moves is that things don’t always go as planned – like the time our visas were delayed or when it took an extra two weeks to deliver our stuff, and we had to sleep on air mattresses.

Preparation and flexibility are essential and can help you manage the financial, logistical, and emotional aspects of moving. The good news is that you can do several things before, during, and after your PCS to minimize the impact on your wallet and manage the stress – remember you’ve got this!

PCS Prep

Your PCS orders arrive and the countdown is on. Whether the government is moving you or you’re doing a DIY personally-procured move (PPM), it’s time to start planning.

• Budget now! Consider how your income and expenses may change at your new duty station and create a budget. Plan for changes in allowances, like BAH and COLA, and special or incentive pays. If you are married and your spouse’s employment status could change, understand the impact on your income. Your income and expenses could vary significantly depending on your type of move – CONUS or OCONUS.
• Inventory your belongings. Take before and after photos and keep receipts for “big-ticket” items. If something is lost or damaged, this can help when you file your claim with your Transportation Service Provider (TSP) in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). Your property may be protected through your renters or homeowners insurance; review your policy so you know what is covered.
• Set aside money in a PCS fund. You may have to pay out-of-pocket for some moving expenses and having cash to cover them until you’re reimbursed is helpful. Review your Service’s guidance on Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) usage requirements.
• Update your mailing address for all communications and bills. Ensure you and other household members can access accounts online. Consider signing up for automatic bill pay and digital statements. Depending on your duty station, you may move into temporary quarters initially so be prepared to update accounts again after you are in permanent housing.
• Consider Moving Yourself. Moving yourself could save you money, especially since the DoD temporarily increased the reimbursement rate for a PPM to 130% of the Global Household Goods Contract rate. You get to keep the difference if it costs you less. Also, consider selling items you no longer need to lighten the load and add a few dollars to your wallet.
• Prep for temporary housing. The summer move season is busy and if you’re planning to stay in temporary housing on installation, make reservations asap. Check your eligibility for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for CONUS moves or Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) for OCONUS moves. The duration and reimbursement rate varies based on location and number of dependents. TLE and TLA are intended to partially cover temporary housing expenses, be prepared to cover some costs out of pocket.

Enroute

Your new duty station is the destination, but the real adventure is the journey! Here are a few money-related pointers to consider:

• Hang on to your receipts. This will help you quickly file your travel claim upon arrival.
• Hand-carry important documents and valuables. Do not pack items like medications, legal documents, moving paperwork, personal valuables, and keys in your household goods shipment.

Settling In

You made it! Take some time to get familiar with your new duty station as you wait for your stuff. The installation family support center has information for newcomers and can help you and your family acclimate.

• Bake and borrow. Try to find temporary housing with a kitchen to cook meals and cut down on expensive dining out. If you need household items, the installation loan closet can be a lifesaver while you wait for your shipment.
• Adjust your budget. Start tracking income and expenses to establish your new baseline. Follow our Build a Budget guide and dynamic Budget Builder tool to get started.

By following these tips, you can tackle your PCS with an organized plan, reduce stress, and ease the transition to your new home. Stay positive, be flexible, and embrace your next military adventure!

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