PCS Checklist for Military Families

🧭 PCS Checklist: Most Critical Items to Plan and Organize

Receiving your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders marks the start of a major life transition. It can go one of two ways:

1️⃣ Smooth, efficient, and organized
2️⃣ Chaotic, rushed, and full of surprises

At CARS Relocation, we’ve helped hundreds of military families relocate successfully. Use this essential PCS checklist to stay ahead and keep stress low every step of the way.

📋 1. The Planning Stage

The average military family moves every three years (source). It never gets easy—but early planning makes all the difference.

🗂️ Organize Essential Documents

Store passports, medical records, birth certificates, orders, housing docs, and more in one binder or folder.

🚗 Plan Transportation Logistics

Research your options early. For OCONUS orders, arrange auto transport and large-item shipping. For CONUS moves, consider PCS vehicle shipping for higher-value vehicles.

✈️ Military Flight Discounts

Use military discounts to reduce baggage fees. Pack unaccompanied baggage smartly—it may arrive later.

🌍 Research Your New Duty Station

Look into schools, hospitals, child care, and community resources. Understanding your new area will help your family adjust faster.

🏠 2. Securing Housing

Your housing options will vary based on rank, family size, and duty station.

🏘️ Evaluate Housing Options

Private military housing

Single service member barracks

Buying a home for long-term orders

💸 Military Rebate Program

Save up to $3,000 with the military rebate program from ARC Relocation.

🛏️ Temporary Housing

If there's a gap in housing, look into temporary living quarters. These costs may be reimbursed.

🧭 Consult DTMO

Use the Defense Travel Management Office for PCS entitlements, GPM vs. PPM info, and planning tools.

🏡 Get Pre-Qualified for a Mortgage

Use tools like Credit Karma to assess credit and estimate your budget—many agents won’t show homes without pre-approval.

📦 3. Packing for the Move

Packing is where the PCS process often becomes overwhelming.

📦 Choose Your Move Type

PPM (DITY): You move, you’re reimbursed

GPM: Gov’t moves everything, but you lose flexibility

Hybrid: A bit of both

🎒 Plan Baggage Wisely

Each person gets 1,000 lbs (2,000 for families) of unaccompanied baggage. Pack essentials and label clearly.

⚖️ Watch PCS Weight Limits

Exceeding your PCS weight allowance leads to penalties. Know your limit by rank and dependents.

👨‍👩‍👧 4. For the Family

Relocation affects everyone, especially kids.

🎉 Make It Fun

Turn the journey into an adventure with games, hotel pools, and scenic stops.

⚖️ Understand Child Custody Rules

Moving can complicate custody. Know your rights under military relocation custody laws and the SCRA.

🏡 5. Settling In

Give yourself time to acclimate and don’t expect to be fully unpacked in one weekend.

💰 Check for Dislocation Allowance

DLA can reimburse food, lodging, and travel costs. Learn more about DLA benefits.

🤝 Join the Community

Attend events, meet neighbors, and reconnect with friends from prior bases. A support network helps morale and transition.

🎒 What to Pack in Your Suitcase or Car

In Your Suitcase:

PCS orders and IDs

Clothing & toiletries

Medications

Electronics & chargers

Jewelry or small valuables

First aid kit

In Your Car:

Emergency kit

Snacks & water

Cleaning supplies

Pet gear

Basic bedding

Kitchen essentials

👉 Pro Tip: Label these “Do Not Pack” and store them in a separate room during pickup.

❓ PCS Checklist: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How early should I plan?
Start as soon as you receive orders—ideally 6–12 months out.

Q: What housing options are available?
On-base, off-base rentals, temporary housing, or homeownership.

Q: How much baggage can I bring?
Up to 1,000 lbs per individual (2,000 lbs for families) in unaccompanied baggage.

Q: What reimbursements do I get?
You may qualify for DLA plus PCS reimbursement—save all receipts!

Q: What’s the difference between GPM and PPM?
GPM: Gov’t handles the move.
PPM: You handle it, and get paid. Hybrid options available.

Q: How do I protect valuables?
Transport them yourself and photograph for insurance. Consider extra coverage if needed.

🧭 Final Thoughts

PCS doesn't have to be overwhelming. With this checklist and expert support, your military move can be efficient, organized, and even enjoyable.

📞 Schedule a free consultation with CARS Relocation to simplify your move—so you can focus on your next mission.

Resource Links:

DITY Partial Move Reimbursement Guide
https://www.corporateamerica.us/dity-partial-move-guide

PCS Weight Allowance Guide
https://www.corporateamerica.us/pcs-weight-allowance

Military Relocation and Child Custody
https://www.corporateamerica.us/military-relocation-and-child-custody

CARS Military Relocation Overview
https://www.corporateamerica.us/military-relocation/

Real Estate Rebate Program
https://www.corporateamerica.us/rebate/

Dislocation Allowance Info
https://www.corporateamerica.us/dislocation-allowance

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)
https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers/servicemembers-civil-relief-act-scra

Defense Travel Management Office
https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/relocation.cfm