Frequently asked questions about Military Moves.

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Q: What is a PCS move? A: A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is a relocation of a military member and their family to a new duty location.

Q: Who pays for a PCS move? A: The military member's branch of service will cover the cost of the PCS move, including transportation, lodging, and other associated expenses.

Q: What is included in a PCS move? A: A PCS move typically includes the transportation of household goods, personal property, and vehicles. It may also include temporary lodging and other expenses related to the move.

Q: How much notice is required for a PCS move? A: The military member will typically receive PCS orders with at least 2-3 months' notice. However, this can vary depending on the circumstances.

Q: Can I choose my own moving company for a PCS move? A: Military members have the option to choose their own moving company or use the government's contracted moving company.

Q: How can I prepare for a PCS move? A: Start planning early, declutter and organize your belongings, make a moving checklist, and communicate with your moving company and military housing office.

Q: How long does a PCS move take? A: The length of a PCS move can vary depending on the distance and other factors. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Q: What happens if my belongings are damaged during a PCS move? A: Military members have the right to file a claim for damaged or lost items during a PCS move. The claims process is typically handled by the moving company or the military's claims office.

Q: Can I bring my pets on a PCS move? A: Yes, pets can be included in a PCS move. However, it's important to research any regulations or requirements for transporting pets to the new location.

Q: What if I have to cancel or postpone my PCS move? A: If circumstances change and you need to cancel or postpone your PCS move, contact your military housing office or the transportation office as soon as possible to make the necessary arrangements.

Q: Can I request a specific moving date for my PCS move? A: While the military will try to accommodate your requested moving dates, it's important to be flexible, as move dates can be affected by factors such as availability of transportation and housing.

Q: What should I do if I need to store my belongings during a PCS move? A: Military members may be able to store their belongings at government expense if their new duty station is not ready for occupancy. Contact your transportation office for more information.

Q: What is a PPM move, and can I do one for my PCS move? A: A Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move, allows military members to move their belongings themselves and receive reimbursement for the cost. You can do a PPM move for your PCS move, but be sure to follow the regulations and guidelines for doing so.

Q: Can I bring my own packing supplies for a PCS move? A: Yes, you can use your own packing supplies for a PCS move, but keep in mind that the moving company may have specific requirements for packing materials and techniques.

Q: What should I do if I have a dispute with my moving company during a PCS move? A: If you have a dispute with your moving company, try to resolve it directly with the company. If you can't reach a resolution, contact the military claims office for assistance.

Q: How can I track my household goods during a PCS move? A: You can track your household goods using the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), which allows you to view the status of your shipment online.

Q: Can I bring my own vehicle on a PCS move, and what are the regulations? A: Yes, you can bring your own vehicle on a PCS move. Regulations for vehicle transport vary by branch of service and location, so be sure to check with your transportation office for guidance.

Q: How do I prepare my appliances for a PCS move? A: Before your move, be sure to clean and prepare your appliances, such as disconnecting and draining your washer and dryer, and securing the doors and shelves of your refrigerator and freezer.

Q: What should I do if my PCS move is delayed? A: If your PCS move is delayed due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a change in orders or a transportation issue, contact your military housing office or transportation office for assistance.

Q: Can I bring my firearms on a PCS move, and what are the regulations? A: Yes, you can bring your firearms on a PCS move. However, regulations for firearm transport vary by branch of service and location, so be sure to check with your transportation office for guidance.

Q: Can I choose to move some of my belongings to storage instead of to my new duty station? A: Yes, you can choose to have some of your belongings moved to storage instead of to your new duty station. Contact your transportation office for information on storage options and regulations.

Q: What happens if my household goods are lost or damaged during a PCS move? A: If your household goods are lost or damaged during a PCS move, you can file a claim for reimbursement. Contact your transportation office or the military claims office for more information.

Q: Can I request a specific moving company for my PCS move? A: Military members can request a specific moving company for their PCS move, but the request may not always be granted due to availability and other factors.

Q: What should I do if I need to change my PCS move itinerary? A: If you need to change your PCS move itinerary, contact your military housing office or transportation office as soon as possible to make the necessary arrangements.

Q: Can I ship my vehicle overseas during a PCS move? A: Yes, you can ship your vehicle overseas during a PCS move. However, regulations and requirements for vehicle transport vary by location, so be sure to check with your transportation office for guidance.

Q: Can I pack my own household goods for a PCS move? A: Yes, you can pack your own household goods for a PCS move. However, keep in mind that the moving company may have specific requirements for packing materials and techniques.

Q: What should I do if my PCS move is delayed due to weather or other natural disasters? A: If your PCS move is delayed due to weather or other natural disasters, contact your military housing office or transportation office for guidance on rescheduling or making alternative arrangements.

Q: Can I store my household goods for an extended period of time during a PCS move? A: Yes, you can store your household goods for an extended period of time during a PCS move. Contact your transportation office for information on storage options and regulations.

Q: Can I choose to move my household goods by air instead of by ground during a PCS move? A: In some cases, you may be able to move your household goods by air instead of by ground during a PCS move. However, this option may not always be available or practical, and regulations and costs may vary.

Q: Can I bring hazardous materials on a PCS move, and what are the regulations? A: Regulations for hazardous materials transport during a PCS move vary by branch of service and location. Contact your transportation office for guidance on transporting hazardous materials.

Q: Can I bring my own packing materials for a PCS move? A: Yes, you can use your own packing materials for a PCS move, but keep in mind that the moving company may have specific requirements for packing materials and techniques.

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