Military Moving: PCS Orders and Relocation Benefits

Military families face unique moving challenges. Here's how to maximize your PCS benefits and ensure smooth relocations.

## Understanding PCS Benefits

### Entitlements Overview - Household goods shipment allowances - Temporary lodging expenses (TLE) - Dislocation allowance (DLA) - Mileage reimbursement for travel

### Weight Allowances by Rank - Junior enlisted: 5,000-8,000 lbs - Senior enlisted: 11,000-14,000 lbs - Officers: 14,000-18,000 lbs - Additional allowances for dependents

## Types of Military Moves

### Government Arranged Moves - Transportation office coordinates - Government pays moving company directly - Full replacement value coverage - Most common for CONUS moves

### Personally Procured Moves (PPM) - You arrange and execute the move - Reimbursed up to government cost - Keep savings as profit - More control over timeline

### Combination Moves - Part government arranged, part PPM - Flexibility for different needs - Maximize benefits and convenience - Popular for complex relocations

## Pre-Move Planning

### Transportation Office Visit - Schedule appointment early - Bring all required documentation - Understand your entitlements - Get written confirmation of benefits

### Documentation Needed - PCS orders and amendments - Dependent ID cards - Inventory of household goods - Special handling requirements

## Overseas Moves (OCONUS)

### Additional Considerations - Customs and quarantine requirements - Voltage and appliance compatibility - Cultural adaptation preparation - Extended shipping timeframes

### Prohibited Items - Weapons and ammunition restrictions - Food and plant quarantine rules - Hazardous materials limitations - Country-specific restrictions

## Storage Benefits

### Temporary Storage - Up to 90 days at origin - Up to 90 days at destination - Extensions possible with approval - Useful for housing delays

### Long-Term Storage - Available for overseas assignments - Up to entire tour length - Climate-controlled options - Inventory management important

## Family Considerations

### School Age Children - Research DoDEA schools - Transfer records early - Consider timing for school year - Explore tutoring if needed

### Spouse Employment - Research job markets - Consider remote work options - Military spouse employment resources - Professional license transfers

## Common Challenges and Solutions

### Damage Claims - Document everything thoroughly - File claims promptly - Keep detailed records - Follow up persistently

### Timeline Issues - Build flexibility into plans - Have backup arrangements - Communicate with sponsors - Plan for delays

## Maximizing Your Benefits

### Cost-Saving Strategies - Compare PPM vs. government move costs - Time moves strategically - Use temporary lodging wisely - Keep detailed expense records

### Additional Resources - Military Family Life Counselors - Relocation assistance programs - Base family support centers - Online military moving communities

## Retirement and Separation Moves

### Final PCS Benefits - One move to home of record or selection - Extended timeframes allowed - Storage benefits continue - Special consideration for disabilities

### Planning Your Final Move - Research civilian communities - Consider cost of living differences - Plan for career transitions - Utilize veteran resources

Military moves are complex but manageable with proper planning and understanding of your benefits and entitlements.