Navigating a PCS Move: Practical Steps for Military Families

 

Part 1: Practical PCS Moving Steps

1. Start Early and Get Organized

When relocation becomes apparent, start building your PCS Binder or digital folder with all necessary documents. Having everything in one place will save time and stress. There are multiple free or paid binder templates available online to aid organization—our favorite is from PCS Like a Pro. Check out her Free Resources section to snag a basic binder template. Click here to access it!

2. Contact Transportation Services

Visit your local Transportation Movement Office (TMO) to schedule your household goods move. Decide whether you’ll utilize government movers or opt to coordinate yourself with a Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY). Understanding weight allowances and entitlements can help you make the best choice for your family.

3. Sort and Organize Before Packing

A PCS move is a great opportunity to take inventory of your belongings. Organize items by category and determine what you use regularly, what serves a purpose, and what should be stored or replaced. Prioritize what adds the most value to your next home and daily life. Create a personal inventory for collections, high-value items, and sentimental pieces. By intentionally sorting and streamlining, you’ll create a more efficient and meaningful move while ensuring purposeful use of weight entitlement.

4. Secure Housing at Your New Duty Station

Start researching base housing and off-base rental or purchase options early. When possible, join local military spouse groups or connect with your gaining command or sponsor for insights on the duty station. If you need professional real estate assistance for rentals or purchases, The Peña Team is a powerful tool. We have national and international connections, access to military-centric Realtors, and will interview them on your behalf to find a great partnership. Connect with us today if you need this service.

5. Prepare for Moving Day

A smooth move starts with preparation. Set up a "No Pack Room" for items staying with you, like essentials and valuables. Lock high-value items—jewelry, documents, passports, and electronics—in your vehicle for security. Pack a "PCS Essentials Box" with must-haves for arrival: important documents (orders, IDs, medical records), first-aid kit, meds, basic tools, toiletries (don’t forget a shower curtain), season-appropriate clothes, duty uniforms, chargers, and snacks. Keeping these essentials with you ensures you're covered, even if household goods are delayed.

6. Plan for Kids and Pets

If you have children, talk to their school about transfer procedures. For moving day, consider babysitters or playdates to keep kids entertained and out of the house. For pets, research airline requirements or pet-friendly travel options ahead of time. On moving day, pets should be contained in rooms or carriers while checked on continually, to ensure they are not packed, lost, or injured. Because of the high stress environment before travel, you might want to consider boarding pets during this process.

 

Part 2: Handling the Emotional Side of PCS Moves

PCS moves are more than just a logistical challenge—they also take a toll on emotions. Leaving behind friends, uprooting routines, and starting fresh can be overwhelming. Here are tips on how to navigate the emotional side of a PCS:

 

It’s okay to feel a mix of excitement, stress, and sadness. Recognizing these emotions can help you process them in a healthy way.

2. Create Meaningful Transition

Take time to connect before you go - host a farewell gathering, exchange contact info, and take photos of favorite places to help preserve memories. Encourage kids to do the same by swapping addresses with friends or creating a small keepsake. These connections don’t end with the move; they just take on a new form, reinforcing the military mindset that it’s never goodbye, just see you later.

3. Stay Connected

Technology makes it easier than ever to keep in touch with friends from previous duty stations. Set up regular check-ins or virtual hangouts to maintain relationships.

4. Embrace the Adventure

Each PCS is an opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and build resilience. Research fun things to do at your new duty station and get involved in local activities.

5. Find Your Support System

Join local spouse groups, military family organizations, or base activities to connect with others who understand PCS life. Having a support system can make all the difference.

6. Give Yourself (and Your Family) Grace

Adjusting to a new home, school, and community takes time. Be patient with yourself and your loved ones as you settle in.

 

Final Thoughts

PCS moves are a defining part of military life, and while they come with stress, they also offer fresh opportunities. By approaching your move with a solid plan and an open heart, you can make the transition smoother for yourself and your family. Remember—you’re not alone, and every PCS is a chance to create new memories and experiences.

Our team is forged by military veterans and spouses and we operate in close proximity to military installations - Air Force Academy, Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, and Cheyenne Mountain SFS. We're well trained to help you and your family PCS as smoothly as possible!

If you need assistance buying or selling a home during your PCS, reach out to us at (719) 204-5246 or info@thepenateam.com. We’re here to help make your transition as smooth as possible!