Moving to a new duty station is a hallmark of military life, and navigating the complexities of a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this page: your one-stop destination for up-to-date information on PCS regulations, relocation benefits, and critical updates for the 2025 moving season.

As regulations and policies evolve, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest changes that could impact your transition. Our PCS Hub was designed to keep you up-to-date with the latest changes, making the PCS process just a bit easier.

Get the inside scoop on upcoming PCS regulation changes, new relocation benefits & allowances, peruse helpful resources, and more.

MyBaseGuide's mission is to empower you with the knowledge and resources you need. Bookmark this page and check back regularly for important updates, tips, and guidance to support you on your relocation journey.

The most popular duty stations for 2025 are expected to align with what was seen in 2024. Texas is projected to be the most popular state to PCS to, with the following bases being the most popular:

PCS information can change frequently, so to ensure you're always prepared, be sure to sign up for our email updates! 

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, so that you can navigate your next move with confidence.

If you're PCSing into the United States and own a cat or dog, you may be able to receive $4,000. Learn more about this relocation benefit.

Get Up to $4,000 When PCSing With New Military Pet Relocation Reimbursement

Moving from one place to another is difficult, especially if there are a lot of things that need to be prepared. This scenario is not new to military families since they move often due to the call of duty; sometimes, they might even be stationed overseas. A move overseas can be stressful, as there are many things to take care of, such as packing, announcing the big news, saying goodbyes, notifying your landlord, registering with the Defense Personal Property System, and more.

Aside from the hassle of preparing for the move, there is also the feeling of anxiety as it will be a new place and adjustment. There is a fear that you might not find new friends or that the community might not be that welcoming. Whatever obstacles you face, you need to be prepared.

1. Learn About the Country Your Moving to

Moving abroad is a big decision that can bring about some anxiety as you are moving to a new place with an entirely different culture. Thus, it is beneficial to learn about the cultural differences between where you're from and the country you're moving to. 

If there is a language barrier, you might consider learning a few phrases to help you navigate your move. This will also help you integrate into the local culture of where you're now stationed.

2. Prepare a Budget & Research the Cost of Living

When moving overseas, it's important to understand the cost of living in the country you are moving to so that you can budget appropriately. This will help you plan a realistic budget. 

Also, make sure that you calculate the city level cost of living as this varies depending on the city you live in, your lifestyle, etc.

When you get your orders to move overseas, there are several documents that you'll need to have on hand. 

 – Keep your original set of orders with you, and be sure to make a few copies.

 – Pack your military ID and driver’s license. Additionally, you should bring your Social Security card, passport and birth and/or marriage certificates.

 – Bring personal checks, hard copies of bank statements, and your credit or debit cards.

 – Make sure that you bring any important legal documents. These include divorce or annulment paperwork, your marriage certificate, wills, custody or adoption paperwork, and active power of attorney documents.

 – If you are PCSing with children, be sure to bring their transcripts and report cards, as they may be needed for school registration.

 – Your medical records, dental records, and vaccination records should all be brought along with you. If you have children, be sure to bring their paperwork as well, as it will likely be needed for school registration.

Deciding what you can and can't bring with you can feel like a significant undertaking. If you have questions about what is allowed, be sure to check out 

While you can bring a majority of household goods, there are restrictions on certain items, like cleaning supplies, paint, gasoline, frozen food, produce, etc.

How Should I Prepare for a Move Overseas?

It is much easier to check out a new house, school, or neighborhood if you are moving to a different state, but it will be another story if you move overseas. If this happens, it is best to contact your Transportation Management Office to get more details about what you will need for the move. 

Another great idea is to create an account for 

, a website created by the U.S. Department of Defense to support the military community. In the meantime, here are a few things you must consider when moving overseas.

The American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association Senior Vice President and 

 mentioned that if a military personnel is assigned overseas, they will likely have a sponsor or can request one. 

So, it is essential to connect with them and other families beforehand to ask questions, especially about their overseas experience with moving. 

These sponsors can provide valuable information regarding the area, tips, and more.

Once you find out you will leave the country, you must notify essential people. Get in touch with your property manager or housing about your situation. 

However, consider putting it on the market if you own a home. If you live in a base of renting a home, it is best to give them a heads-up before moving. 

Remember to contact a TRICARE benefits adviser about your situation so they can guide you on what to do next.

Moving overseas is not easy for the military, and can be costly since reimbursement can take a few months. With this, keeping a record book for tracking the expenses made while moving is best. This will also help you determine your entitlement to relocation benefits and allowances. 

Don't forget to create an inventory of your household items along with the financial list. Create a list of what will be shipped overseas, kept in storage, and the items you will donate or sell.

One of the most important things to consider when moving overseas is your papers. If you are married with children, ensure everyone is listed in the official orders. 

You will need this information to apply for no-fee government visas, passports, and other paperwork. Before you set the travel arrangements, you'll need to submit your overseas medical clearance. This will ensure that the station you will be assigned to can handle your family’s medical needs.

Also, always make sure that immunizations, passports, driver’s licenses, and visas are updated. You might also need to bring other documents such as ID cards, your orders, passports, overseas clearance, birth certificates, and marriage licenses/certificates.

Damaged Items? Consider Submitting a PCS Damage Claim

When you are moving overseas, it is natural to pack and ship all your things, hoping that all your stuff will be handled carefully. Some have good move experience, while others might experience damaged goods. 

The good thing is you can always file for a damage claim, but before processing the necessary action, you must take photos of the damaged item for documentation. Also, remember there are two forms, one for the damage discovered at delivery and another if you find damaged goods after the delivery.

, you can't submit a generic claim; everything should be detailed and itemized. Once done, it will be mailed or emailed to the shipping company, and they are given 15 days to respond. 

In some cases, the DoD will require you to provide the movers company with a written statement within 180 days of delivery, and you need to file it within 9 months of delivery.

When faced with damaged furniture after your move overseas, don't dispose of the item as it can be used as proof of your claim. Another reason is that one rule of PCS damage claims is to let the TSP repair the items instead of replacing them. There is also a damage settlement option, in which you will be compensated within 5 days of the claim.

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Ordered to PCS? Your temporary lodging expense (TLE) entitlement will help you cover expenses when you're traveling to your new home.

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Moving from one state to another or even overseas can be daunting as there are many things to prepare for. This can be more difficult if you have children since it can be challenging to explain what will happen. Aside from this fiasco, it can be a hassle if your shipped furniture is damaged. If this happens, you should file for PCS claims. No matter how diligently you pack your stuff, there are circumstances that you can't control where they will still be damaged. This scenario is highly likely, especially if you are traveling long distances.

Filing for a PCS damage claim can take some time. However, it can easily be done online through the 

. When you move with the military, your household items are insured to the total replacement value. So, if something is damaged or lost, your Transportation Service Provider must replace or pay for the repairs. However, it is your responsibility to prove your claims. So once your stuff is unloaded, inspect them firsthand, and make sure that electronics work correctly and that other items don't have any cracks or breaks.

It's essential to take evidence of your claim; it is much better to have multiple photos of the damaged item from various angles. Other companies will offer a quick claim payout of up to $500 upfront.

Payment is most often processed within five calendar days of your delivery date. Remember that you can only file a quick claim for an item once. Damage is not just on your household goods; it also includes your walls or door frames that need attention for repair.

Once you've documented everything, you must submit a damage or loss report. This differs from filling out a Defense Personal Property System portal claim form. The report is a notification for 

 that you intend to file for PCS claims. 

You will be given 75 days to file the loss or damage claim, and the movers will have 60 days to deny, pay, or make a counteroffer.

When filing, it is essential to have other details of the item, such as the purchase date, price, and description of the damage.

If you have heirlooms, it is better to take before photos to compare if something goes wrong. The truth is that no moving company will offer a total replacement value unless there is proof that you purchased it before PCSing. 

Most companies will cite the depreciation of the items to counter the claim. But you can still push back if you feel the amount is not worth the offer. If your moving company is not processing your PCS damage claim correctly, you can contact your Military Claim Office or the Relocation Assistance Program.

What Happens After Filing Your PCS Claims?

You will receive an acknowledgment once you have submitted all the necessary documents. Sometimes, the claim is settled immediately if you have the proper documentation and details. 

From there, someone will ask for further details or set up an inspection to review the damage, which is done virtually. Don't throw away your damaged items, as they can still be used as solid evidence. 

You should wait for your reimbursement or replacement before taking further steps to repair the broken furniture.

Then, the Defense Personal Property System will send you a letter with the offer amount. You can always contact your adjuster if things need to be adjusted with the amount. It is better to call or email your adjuster for faster transactions. Always remember that you have the right to file a claim for every 

 move if your household goods are damaged. Always look out for the most reasonable settlement for your claim.

 are? Check out our piece explaining what is going into effect in the new year.

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