Master your permanent change of station with our comprehensive timeline generator, budget calculator, and step-by-step moving guide. Calculate your official PCS entitlements based on 2025 JTR rates.
60-90 Days Before Move Date
30-60 Days Before Report Date
Calculate your exact entitlements (DLA, TLE, per diem), estimate moving costs, and determine if a PPM/DITY move is profitable for you.
Calculate My PCS BudgetContact your sponsor immediately for insider knowledge about the new base. They can provide real-world insights about housing, schools, traffic patterns, and local area that official resources don't cover.
Move Week & Travel Days
The government reimburses 100% of what it would have cost them (based on 2025 JTR rates). If you can move for less, you keep the difference. Use our calculator to determine your specific amount.
First 30 Days at New Station
Late arrival can result in AWOL status - communicate if delayed
ID card, DEERS update, finance visit, housing briefing, base orientation
Typically arrives 7-21 days after pack date - TMO will coordinate
Contact schools early - some have waitlists or registration deadlines
Electric, water, gas, internet, trash - may require deposits
Best for: Families with large households (15,000+ lbs), international moves, or those who prefer convenience over profit.
Calculator: Use our PCS Financial Planner to calculate your official reimbursement amount based on weight, distance, and rank (2025 JTR rates).
Calculate My PPM ReimbursementOne-time payment to offset costs of setting up a new household (utility deposits, furniture, essentials).
Reimbursement for temporary lodging and meals while waiting for housing or HHG delivery.
Daily allowance for meals and incidental expenses during authorized travel days.
1) Create your timeline: Use your Report No Later Than Date (RNLTD) to work backward and create a customized checklist. Our PCS Financial Planner can help you build this timeline.
2) Start your PCS Binder: Make multiple copies of your orders (you'll need them for TMO, finance, housing, travel). Organize all important documents in one place.
3) Contact TMO immediately: Schedule your appointment 30-45 days before desired pack date (60-90 days if moving during peak season May-August).
Government Move (HHG): The military hires and manages a moving company. They pack, load, transport, and deliver your household goods. You don't pay anything upfront, but you also have less control over dates and handling.
PPM/DITY (Personally Procured Move): You move your own belongings and the government reimburses you 100% of what it would have cost them to hire movers (based on 2025 JTR rates). If you can execute the move for less than their estimate, you keep the difference.
Reimbursement Amount: Calculated based on weight allowance, distance, and rank per official JTR rates. Use our PCS Financial Planner to calculate your specific reimbursement amount.
Most CONUS PCS moves cost $500-$2,000 out of pocket for military families, even with entitlements.
OCONUS moves: Can cost $2,000-$5,000 out of pocket due to passport fees, pet relocation (quarantine, vaccines, flights), additional lodging, and vehicle shipping/storage.
Contact your Transportation Office (TMO or PPPO) at least 30-45 days before your desired pack date.
What to bring to TMO: Copy of orders, weight estimate, desired pack/pickup dates, destination address (if known), and list of high-value items (>$100 each).
Weight allowances are determined by your rank and dependency status:
| Rank | Without Deps | With Deps |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 | 5,000 lbs | 8,000 lbs |
| E-5 | 7,000 lbs | 11,000 lbs |
| E-7 | 11,000 lbs | 13,000 lbs |
| O-3 | 12,000 lbs | 14,000 lbs |
| O-6+ | 18,000 lbs | 18,000 lbs |
Pro Gear: You get an additional 2,000 lbs allowance for uniforms and military equipment (separate from household goods weight).
Overage costs: Exceeding your weight limit costs approximately $0.50-$1.00 per pound. A 1,000 lb overage could cost you $500-$1,000!
Use our AI-powered tools to calculate your PCS entitlements and minimize stress.
Calculate DITY vs government move costs using official 2025 JTR rates. Determine your reimbursement amount.
15,000-word guide: How to profit $2K-5K on your PPM move. Weight tickets, receipts, reimbursement process.
Step-by-step PCS checklist from orders to in-processing. Never miss a critical deadline or entitlement.
Find the perfect home within BAH. Rent vs buy decision framework, negotiation tactics, hidden costs.
How to break your lease legally with PCS orders. Save $3K-8K in early termination fees.
25+ comprehensive PCS guides covering every aspect of military relocation and moving.
