If you are a service member or military family, you know that moving is simply part of the mission. Whether this is your first or your next Permanent Change of Station (PCS), every move brings a unique set of challenges. Preparation is the key to a stress-free transition. Here is everything you need to know to prepare for a smooth move.
What is PCSing?
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is the official reassignment of a service member to a new duty location in the military. During a PCS, the military funds the relocation, including transportation of the service member, their family, and their household goods.
What To Do When You Receive Your PCS Orders
The moment you receive your orders, review them carefully to confirm your report date, destination, and entitlements. You destination will be classified as either CONUS (within the continental US) or OCONUS (outside the continental US), which will significantly impact your logistics.
Understanding Your PCS Entitlements
To ease the financial burden of relocation, the military provides several entitlements. Here are the most common:
Travel Per Diem: This daily allowance covers meals and incidental expenses. Rates very based on your location, rank, and branch.
Dislocation Allowance (DLA): This is a flat sum intended cover any the extra expenses inherent in a move. It is based on your pay grade and dependent status, and is typically received after you submit your travel claim at your new station.
Weight Allowance: The military ships your household goods based on a weight limit determined by your rank and number of dependents. Be mindful of this limit, as exceeding it may result in out-of-pocket costs.
Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT): If you are driving to your new duty station, you are entitled to a mileage allowance. You will typically pay for fuel and tolls upfront and receive reimbursement after filing your travel claim.
Hotel Expenses: Your lodging expenses are covered by per diem. Ask for the government rate when booking hotels to ensure your costs stay within your allocation.
Once you have a clear picture of your entitlements, you can move from the research phase into active coordination. By using your guaranteed allowances as the foundation of your strategy, you can build a moving plan that is both financially sound and logistically organized.
Stay Mission-Ready with a Moving Plan
A smooth move is as much about planning as it is packing. By treating your military allowances as a roadmap, you can create a strict moving budget to avoid unexpected financial strain.
For a more comprehensive guide for planning your move, check out our moving checklist.
Finding Your New Home
Once you have a clear picture on your budget and timeline, the focus shifts to the most important destination: your new home. Whether you’re looking for the community of base housing or the long-term investment of buying a home in the local area, starting your search early is the best way to secure a location that fits your family’s needs.
On-Base Housing: If you prefer to live on the installation, contact the Military Housing Office (MHO) immediately to join the waiting list.
Off-Base Housing: If you choose to live in the local community, research the surrounding neighborhoods for rental or homebuying options.
Deciding whether to rent or buy at a new duty station is a major financial decision. If you’re leaning toward homeownership, it’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a VA loan before you even start house hunting. This gives you a clear understanding of your buying power and shows sellers you’re a serious, mission-ready buyer in a competitive market.
Notify Your Service Providers
To avoid double billing or service gaps, contact your utility companies, internet providers, and insurance agents at least 30 days in advance. Don’t forget to schedule mail forwarding through the USPS official website.
Your Essentials Bag Checklist
Don’t wait until moving day to organize your must-haves. Pack an Essentials Bag to keep with you during travel containing:
- Original orders, IDs, and travel documents
- Medications and medical records
- A few changes of clothing
- Personal hygiene items and toiletries
- Electronics and charges
This bag will be your survival kit for the final leg of the journey.
Let Southern Trust Mortgage Lead the Way
PCSing can be both exciting and overwhelming. At Southern Trust Mortgage, we are committed to helping our veterans and active-duty service members enjoy smooth, stress-free move.
Whether you are moving across state lines or a neighborhood over, we offer:
Priority Approval: Get a fully underwritten credit approval in 24 hours or less.
In-House Processing: Our team handles your loan from start to finish, so you always know exactly where you stand.
Local Market Expertise: We provide a competitive edge with deep knowledge of housing trends and property values.
Ready to start your military homebuying journey? Contact us today!
