PCS CHECKLIST
Reviewed: 2026-06-13

AS SOON AS ORDERS ARRIVE
- Review orders, report dates, and amendments.
- Identify the gaining command and build a move timeline.
- Review Military OneSource and transportation-office guidance.
- Compare on-base versus off-base housing and renting versus buying.
- Start BAH, temporary lodging, and reimbursement tracking.

8 TO 12 WEEKS BEFORE
- Build household inventory and photograph valuable items.
- Prepare important documents.
- Request medical and dental records.
- Review DEERS, TRICARE, and EFMP considerations.
- Research school liaison, childcare, and youth programs.

6 TO 8 WEEKS BEFORE
- Refine housing plans and temporary lodging.
- Review VA loan and Certificate of Eligibility steps if buying.
- Research Florida driver and vehicle requirements.
- Plan utility deposits and insurance transitions.

4 TO 6 WEEKS BEFORE
- Review flood zones, evacuation zones, and hurricane readiness.
- Confirm travel reservations and delivery expectations.
- Learn claims timelines for household goods.

2 TO 4 WEEKS BEFORE
- Confirm pack dates, records, hand-carry documents, and pet plans.
- Track notice requirements, address changes, and housing handoff tasks.

FINAL WEEK
- Pack the PCS essentials bag.
- Verify orders, IDs, receipts, chargers, medications, and uniforms.
- Photograph household condition before move-out.

TRAVEL DAYS
- Track mileage, tolls, lodging, and per diem.
- Keep command check-in information accessible.

FIRST WEEK AFTER ARRIVAL
- Inspect household-goods delivery and document damage.
- Update DEERS, TRICARE, and addresses as needed.
- Learn local emergency, medical, and county resources.

FIRST 30 DAYS AFTER ARRIVAL
- Finish Florida licensing and registration steps.
- Stabilize school and childcare routines.
- Revisit flood, hurricane, and insurance planning.