The Ultimate Expert Guide to Military Relocation.

---

Military relocation can be a challenging and stressful experience, but with proper planning and preparation, it can also be a smooth and successful transition. In this guide, we will cover the important aspects of military relocation, including the different types of moves, the benefits available to military families, and tips for making the move as seamless as possible.

Types of Military Relocation

There are several types of military relocation, each with its own set of rules and benefits. The most common types of moves include Permanent Change of Station (PCS), Temporary Duty (TDY), and Deployment.

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): A PCS move is a permanent move to a new duty station. Military families are usually given a set amount of time to prepare for the move and to make arrangements for their household goods to be packed and shipped. The government will typically pay for the cost of packing and shipping household goods, as well as provide temporary housing if needed.

Temporary Duty (TDY): A TDY move is a temporary move, typically lasting less than a year. Military families are usually given a set amount of time to prepare for the move, but they are responsible for the cost of packing and shipping their household goods. The government will typically provide temporary housing if needed.

Deployment: A deployment is a temporary move, typically lasting less than a year, to a location where the military member is deployed for active duty. Military families are usually given a set amount of time to prepare for the move, but they are responsible for the cost of packing and shipping their household goods. The government will typically provide temporary housing if needed.

Benefits Available to Military Families

There are several benefits available to military families during a move, including financial assistance for packing and shipping household goods, temporary housing, and travel expenses.

Packing and Shipping Household Goods: The government will typically pay for the cost of packing and shipping household goods for a PCS move. For TDY and deployment moves, the military member is responsible for the cost of packing and shipping their household goods.

Temporary Housing: The government will typically provide temporary housing for military families during a PCS, TDY, or deployment move. This can include on-base housing, off-base housing, or a housing allowance.

Travel Expenses: The government will typically pay for travel expenses for a PCS move, including the cost of transportation for the military member and their family, as well as any associated lodging and per diem expenses. For TDY and deployment moves, the military member is typically responsible for their own travel expenses.

Tips for Making the Move as Seamless as Possible

1. Get organized early: Start planning for the move as soon as you know the details of your new duty station. Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done and set a timeline for completing them.
2. Research your new duty station: Learn as much as you can about your new duty station, including the local area, schools, housing options, and any available support services.
3. Seek out support: There are a variety of support services available to military families during a move. Contact your local military installation for information on the services available to you.
4. Pack wisely: Be selective about what you pack and what you leave behind. Consider the cost of packing and shipping items, as well as the available storage space at your new duty station.
5. Take advantage of government benefits: Be sure to take advantage of all the benefits available to you during the move, including financial assistance for packing and shipping household goods, temporary housing, and travel expenses.
6. Be prepared for the unexpected: Military moves can  be unpredictable and it's important to be prepared for any unexpected obstacles or challenges that may arise during the relocation process. This may include delays in shipping, unexpected housing issues, or unexpected expenses. Being prepared and having a plan in place can help mitigate these issues and make the transition smoother.

These links below provide a wealth of information and resources to help service members and their families prepare for a PCS. 

• https://www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-and-deployment/pcs-process: This link provides information on the PCS process, including what to expect, how to prepare, and resources available to service members and their families.
• https://www.move.mil/: This is the official website of the Defense Personal Property Program (DP3), which manages the moving and transportation of personal property for service members during a PCS. The website provides information on the process, including how to prepare, what to expect, and how to file a claim.
• https://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/portal/category/100120: This link takes you to the Military Homefront website, which provides information on all aspects of military life, including PCS. The website provides resources and information on housing, education, childcare, and more.
• https://www.military.com/pcs: This is a website that provides information and resources for service members and their families preparing for a PCS. The website includes articles on the PCS process, checklists, and a directory of moving companies that have been vetted by the military.
• https://www.dfas.mil/militarymembers/pcs/pcs-checklist/: This is the official website of the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), which provides financial support to military service members. This page provides a checklist of things service members and their families should do before, during, and after a PCS.