6 Months Out — Laying the Groundwork
If you know your next assignment early, use this time wisely. Start researching your new duty station, including base information and local housing markets. Request a sponsor through your gaining unit so you have a point of contact who can answer questions about the area. If you are heading OCONUS, begin passport and visa applications now because processing times can stretch to 8 weeks or longer.
3 Months Out — Orders in Hand
Once orders are official, schedule your move with TMO or through MilMove. This is the single most time-sensitive task because summer moving slots fill up quickly. Decide whether you want a full government HHG shipment, a PPM (DITY) move, or a combination of both. Use the BAH calculator to compare housing costs at your new location and start deciding whether to rent or buy.
2 Months Out — Medical, Schools, and Housing
Schedule medical and dental out-processing appointments for your entire family. Request copies of health records and fill any prescriptions you will need during the transition. If you have school-age children, research schools at your new duty station and gather enrollment documents. Begin contacting on-base housing offices or searching for off-base rentals. If you plan to buy, get pre-approved for a mortgage now.
1 Month Out — Locking in Details
Confirm your HHG pickup date with TMO. Begin your unit out-processing checklist and clear each office methodically. Notify your landlord, schedule a move-out inspection, and arrange for utility disconnects timed to your departure. Update your address with USPS, banks, insurance providers, and the DMV. Book temporary lodging at your old or new location if needed — you are authorized up to 14 days of TLE for CONUS moves.
2 Weeks Out — Final Preparations
Pack your essentials bag with documents, medications, chargers, and a few changes of clothes. Plan to live out of this bag for up to a week. Take photos and video of all high-value items for your inventory. Finish cleaning quarters and complete your final housing walk-through. Review the PCS checklist to make sure nothing has been missed.
Moving Week — Pack-Out and Travel
Be present during the entire pack-out to supervise movers and verify the inventory sheet. Mark any pre-existing damage on the inventory form before signing. Once the truck departs, do a final sweep of your home, turn in keys, and begin travel. Keep all receipts for fuel, lodging, and tolls — you will need them for your travel voucher.
Arrival — In-Processing and Settling In
Report to your new unit and begin in-processing. File your travel voucher within five business days to get reimbursed for MALT, per diem, DLA, and TLE. Update DEERS, register vehicles, enroll children in school, and establish care at the new MTF. When your HHG arrive, inspect every item at delivery and note any damage on the form. You have 75 days from delivery to file a claim through the Defense Personal Property System.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance do you get PCS orders?
Most service members receive PCS orders 120 to 180 days before their report date, though it varies by branch and assignment type. OCONUS orders tend to arrive earlier, while CONUS-to-CONUS moves may come with as little as 60 to 90 days notice.
What is the first thing to do when you get PCS orders?
Contact your Transportation Management Office (TMO) or Personal Property Office to schedule your household goods shipment as soon as possible. Pickup slots fill up fast, especially during peak PCS season from May through August.
How long does a typical PCS move take from start to finish?
A CONUS PCS move typically takes 8 to 12 weeks from receiving orders to settling into your new duty station. OCONUS moves can take 4 to 6 months when you factor in passports, command sponsorship, and overseas screenings.
What happens if my PCS orders are delayed or cancelled?
If orders are amended or cancelled, contact TMO immediately to adjust your HHG shipment. Any expenses already incurred may still be reimbursable. Your finance office can advise on entitlements for partial or cancelled moves.
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