PCS General Information: Military Move Tips & Guide

PCS General information to remember when it comes time to PCS! Preparing for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can feel overwhelming, but knowing the basics makes the process much easier.

In this guide, you’ll find PCS general information to help you stay informed and organized throughout your move. Understanding what to expect, from important documents and deadlines to helpful planning tips, will make your military relocation smoother. These essential reminders will help you transition with confidence, whether it’s your first PCS or you’re a seasoned mover.

Excess Costs

Keep in mind that you will be responsible for any excess cost. It’s important to remember that any expenses beyond the authorized moving allowance are your responsibility. These excess costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful, so be sure to review your moving plan and account for potential overages. Excess costs may include fees for exceeding the allowable weight limit, special handling services, or additional stops along the way. Always clarify what’s covered and budget for any possible extra expenses to avoid surprises during your move.

Excess costs include:

Exceeding your authorized weight allowance.
If you decide to ship your household goods to a location other than the one authorized by your PCS orders and it results in higher costs, you’ll be responsible for paying the extra charges.
If you request special services such as special routing, special loading, or any other services not provided under ordinary rates.
If you request more than one household goods shipment from the same point of origin to the same point of destination.
If you ship unauthorized articles in a shipment and movers discover them after pickup.
If you or your agent are not at the scheduled pickup or delivery address when movers arrive.

PRO-Gear

These are items required in order for the service member to perform his or her official duty. You will need to separate your professional gear from the rest of your household goods so that they may be packed, weighed, and marked separately and listed as PRO-Gear on your inventory. Your weight allowance will not include the weight of your PRO-gear. Civilian Spouses may also now ship pro gear as well.

Military member pro gear items include:

Reference books
Papers and material, instruments, tools, and equipment
Specialized clothing such as diving suits, flying suits, and band uniforms (exclude regular uniforms)
MARS equipment: You must certify that you are an active MARS member and that all equipment qualifies for MARS use.

Appliances

Preparing your household goods before your scheduled pack date is essential, especially when it comes to appliances. Proper preparation ensures that your items are moved safely and arrive in good condition at your new home. As the owner, it’s your responsibility to get each appliance ready for the move. For any appliances you plan to take with you, make sure to complete the following steps before moving day to avoid delays or damage.

Disconnect all appliances.
Unhook and drain the hose to your washer.
Refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners should be cleaned and dry prior to the pack date.
Waterbeds should be drained completely; no water dripping on the pack date, or movers will not pack it.
You must disassemble outdoor items such as swing sets, playground equipment, utility sheds, and chain-link fences. The chain-link fence must be rolled.
Outdoor TV antenna must be brought down by you.
Remember, whatever you disassemble or are required to do so, you must reassemble at the destination. Whatever the movers disassemble, they are required to reassemble at the destination.

Looking Ahead: Embrace Your PCS Journey

No matter where your PCS orders take you, being well-prepared can make all the difference. Use these tips and resources to navigate your move with less stress and more confidence. Remember, every PCS is a new adventure and an opportunity to grow. Safe travels, and may your next chapter bring exciting experiences!