Jacob McCrackin
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When military orders come through for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), the clock starts ticking on a whirlwind of logistics. While the government covers many major expenses, families often find themselves paying out-of-pocket for unexpected costs—like pet boarding, last-minute meals, or deposits on new utilities.
A PCS doesn’t have to break your budget. With a proactive approach and a few key strategies, you can control your costs, ease the stress, and focus on what really matters: getting settled in your new home.
Your first step should be building a budget that reflects your move—not just what’s reimbursable.
Include:
Then, compare these expected costs with your entitlements, such as DLA (Dislocation Allowance) or TLE (Temporary Lodging Expense). Knowing what’s covered—and what’s not—puts you in a better position to make informed decisions and avoid financial surprises.
Every item you move increases weight—and potentially your costs. Use this PCS as your opportunity to downsize. Go through each room and ask: “Do we still use this?” Items you don’t love or need can be sold, donated, or discarded.
Bonus: Less clutter means less stress when unpacking. You’ll settle in faster and with fewer boxes to sort through.
Don’t go it alone—military installations and community networks offer powerful (and free!) support:
These resources not only help you save—they help you connect with your new community faster.
Road trips during PCS can add up quickly. Keep costs in check by:
These small actions add up—especially if you’re traveling with kids, pets, or during peak moving seasons.
A Do-It-Yourself move (PPM) offers the potential for reimbursement and flexibility, but it’s not always the cheapest or easiest option. Consider:
You don’t have to do everything yourself. A hybrid move—where you pack some things and hire professionals for the rest—can strike the right balance between cost and convenience.
A budget-conscious PCS is about more than saving dollars—it’s about reducing stress and taking control of the process. By approaching your move with a strategy in place, you not only avoid financial pitfalls, but also create space for a smoother, more intentional transition for your entire family.
Not necessarily. While PPMs may offer reimbursement, costs like fuel, labor, and truck rentals can quickly add up. Compare total costs carefully.
Typical reimbursements include mileage, per diem, DLA, and some lodging. Always check with your local transportation office for specifics.
Most pet-related costs aren’t reimbursed, though some overseas moves may have exceptions. Budget separately for boarding or travel fees.
As soon as you suspect a move is coming. Early planning gives you more time to save and avoid last-minute expenses.
If you’re preparing for a PCS move, remember: every dollar you plan for today is one less surprise tomorrow. With the right preparation, you can stay in control of your finances—and turn this transition into a positive step forward.