A Veteran’s Guide to Moving
Relocating can be a daunting task, especially for veterans navigating a move under PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders. Whether it’s your first move or one of many, having a solid plan can make all the difference.
This guide is tailored to veterans, offering practical advice, military-specific resources, and tips to simplify the process. From organizing your timeline to taking advantage of veteran discounts offered by national moving companies, you’ll find everything you need for a seamless transition.
We’ll also explore housing options, the Personally Procured Move (PPM) program, and budgeting strategies to keep costs in check. With the right preparation, moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be an exciting step toward a new chapter in your life.
Preparing for Your Move
Preparation is key when you’re facing a move, especially under PCS orders. Start planning early to ensure everything is organized and on track.
Create a Moving Timeline
- 12 Weeks Out: Notify your chain of command and begin gathering necessary paperwork.
- 8 Weeks Out: Research moving companies and military resources, including allowances for your PCS move.
- 4 Weeks Out: Schedule transportation, pack non-essentials, and confirm housing arrangements.
- 1 Week Out: Pack essentials and ensure all travel arrangements are finalized.
Organize Important Documents
Keep all critical documents in one place:
- PCS orders
- Military IDs
- Housing contracts or leases
- Birth certificates, passports, and social security cards
Notify Key Contacts
- Utility companies (schedule disconnections and reconnections)
- Healthcare providers (transfer records to your new location)
- Schools (arrange for transcript transfers if applicable)
Temporary Housing Options
Moving to a new location can sometimes involve a gap between leaving your current home and settling into your new one. Temporary housing options provide a comfortable and practical solution during this transition. Whether you’re waiting for a permanent residence or adjusting to a new city, there are several choices to consider.
Local Extended-Stay Options
- Extended-stay hotels like Extended Stay America and Staybridge Suites cater to longer-term guests.
- Include amenities like kitchenettes and laundry facilities.
- Many offer weekly rates and discounts for longer stays.
Military Lodging Options
- Many bases offer temporary lodging facilities (TLFs) for service members and their families.
- Examples include IHG Army Hotels and Navy Gateway Inns & Suites.
- Affordable rates and proximity to base amenities make these ideal for short-term stays.
Hotels with Military Discounts
- Major hotel chains like Choice Hotels, Marriott, and Hilton offer special rates for veterans.
- Look for flexible cancellation policies and extended-stay accommodations.
- Websites like GovX and Military.com list participating hotels with discounts.
Military Resources for PCS Moves
Service members are entitled to various resources to make a PCS move more manageable.Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
BAH is designed to cover housing costs at your new duty station. Use the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) calculator to estimate your rate.Personally Procured Move (PPM)
A PPM, formerly known as a DITY move, allows you to manage your move independently. Benefits include:- Reimbursement for expenses based on weight moved.
- Greater control over the moving timeline.
- Potential for cost savings if you stay under budget.
Base Resources
Most military installations offer relocation services to help you find housing and connect with local resources. Check for your local base guide on VA Loan Network.Choosing a Moving Company
When selecting a moving company, look for those that offer veteran discounts and understand the complexities of PCS moves.National Moving Companies with Veteran Discounts
- U-Haul: Offers up to 15% off for veterans and military members.
- PODS: Provides discounts on moving containers and storage for military families.
- Mayflower Moving: Specializes in long-distance moves with a dedicated military relocation program.
- North American Van Lines: Offers custom solutions for PCS orders, including packing services and insurance options.
Questions to Ask Moving Companies
- Do you have experience with military moves?
- Are there additional fees for long-distance relocations or heavy items?
- What are your insurance options for lost or damaged goods?
Packing Like a Pro
Packing is often the most time-consuming part of moving. Following these tips can help streamline the process.Packing Essentials
- Use durable boxes and label each one with its contents and destination room.
- Pack a “first-night” box with essentials like toiletries, medications, snacks, and chargers.
- Protect fragile items with bubble wrap or towels.
Organizing Your Belongings
Suggested Packing Categories| Category | Examples | Packing Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Documents | Birth certificates, military IDs | Store in a waterproof folder |
| Electronics | Laptops, gaming consoles | Use original packaging if available |
| Kitchenware | Dishes, small appliances | Wrap each item individually |
| Clothing | Uniforms, seasonal wear | Use vacuum-sealed bags |
Settling into Your New Home
After you’ve arrived, it’s time to focus on getting settled.Set Up Utilities
Contact local providers to activate water, electricity, internet, and trash services.Connect with Your New Community
- Attend events on base to meet other families.
- Explore local attractions and recreational activities.
- Join veteran organizations for networking and support.
Claim Moving Reimbursements
Submit all required documents to your transportation office promptly to ensure you receive reimbursements.Renting vs. Buying: Housing Decisions for Veterans
A critical decision for many veterans is whether to rent or buy a home near their new duty station. Rent vs. Buy CalculatorRenting vs. Buying Pros and Cons
| Factor | Renting | Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Costs | Lower (deposit and first month’s rent) | Higher (down payment, closing costs) |
| Flexibility | Easier to relocate | Harder to move quickly |
| Equity Building | None | Builds equity over time |
| Maintenance Responsibility | Landlord | Homeowner |
Budgeting for Your Move
Understanding the financial aspects of a PCS move is crucial to avoid unexpected expenses and ensure a smooth transition. While military moves often include financial support, careful planning can help you stay within budget and reduce stress.
What Costs to Expect:
- Transportation Expenses: This includes the cost of moving your belongings, whether through a government-provided service or a Personally Procured Move (PPM).
- Temporary Housing: Depending on your timeline, you may need short-term lodging.
- Travel Costs: Include gas, flights, meals, and other travel-related expenses for your family.
- Utility Setups: Deposits for new utilities like electricity, water, and internet.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Packing supplies, storage fees, or unforeseen repairs.
Ways to Save Money:
- Utilize Military Benefits: The government covers many PCS-related costs, such as travel allowances, per diem rates, and dislocation allowances. Familiarize yourself with these benefits to maximize savings.
- Plan Ahead: Book temporary housing and transportation early to lock in lower rates.
- DIY Packing: Handle packing yourself to cut costs, but consider using military-issued moving supplies.
- Track Expenses: Keep receipts and detailed records to claim reimbursements properly.
Pro Tip: If you’re opting for a PPM, the military reimburses up to 100% of the cost based on weight limits. Use a weight estimator to stay on track.
Budgeting for your move ensures you’re financially prepared, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PCS move?
A PCS move refers to a Permanent Change of Station order, requiring service members to relocate to a new duty station.
What is the PPM option?
A Personally Procured Move allows service members to handle their move independently, often resulting in cost savings.
How do I find veteran-friendly housing?
Use resources like the Military Housing Office or connect with veteran support organizations for assistance.
What’s included in a moving company’s estimate?
Estimates usually cover packing, transportation, and insurance. Always clarify with the company to avoid hidden fees.
How can I prepare for unexpected moving costs?
Create a buffer in your budget for last-minute expenses like meals or additional supplies.
Can I ship my car during a PCS move?
Yes, many moving companies offer vehicle shipping services for an additional fee.
Do military families get extra time to move?
Yes, service members typically receive travel days based on the distance of their move.
What if my new home isn’t ready when I arrive?
Consider temporary housing options, such as extended-stay hotels or on-base lodging, until your home is move-in ready.