How to Handle a Military Move: PCS Relocation Tips and Tricks

Millennium Moving & Storage • May 16, 2025

Military Move Made Easy: PCS Relocation Tips

A military move—also known as a PCS relocation (Permanent Change of Station)—can be one of the most challenging transitions for service members and their families. From tight deadlines to uncertain schedules, there’s a lot to juggle. At Millennium Moving & Storage, we specialize in making PCS moves smooth and manageable so you can focus on your next chapter—not the chaos of moving.

Whether it’s your first PCS or your fifth, these expert tips will help you handle your military relocation with confidence.


1. Understand the PCS Process

Before anything else, make sure you understand the type of PCS move you're assigned:

  • Government-arranged move: The military arranges movers for you.
  • Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY): You handle the move yourself and may be reimbursed.

Each option has pros and cons, and Millennium Moving & Storage can assist with either one—giving you flexibility and peace of mind.


2. Start Planning Early

PCS orders often come with short notice, so as soon as you receive them:

  • Create a timeline
  • Notify your chain of command
  • Contact your transportation office
  • Schedule a moving consultation

We recommend booking your moving date as early as possible—especially during peak season (May to August).


3. Declutter and Inventory

Before packing, go room by room to:

  • Donate or discard unwanted items
  • Create a detailed inventory list
  • Photograph valuables for insurance

At Millennium Moving & Storage, we offer pre-move consultations to help you strategize and simplify your packing process.


4. Label and Organize Your Belongings

Label boxes by:

  • Room and contents
  • Fragile or non-fragile
  • Priority unpack (items you’ll need right away)

Pro Tip: Create a “first night” box with essentials like toiletries, clothes, chargers, and documents.


5. Secure Important Documents

Keep the following with you (not in moving boxes):

  • Orders and IDs
  • Medical and school records
  • Housing paperwork
  • Passports, birth certificates, and marriage licenses

We recommend storing these in a portable, fireproof document bag for easy access.


6. Consider Temporary Storage

Not all PCS moves are door-to-door. If you’re facing housing delays, Millennium Moving & Storage provides secure, climate-controlled storage options—short or long term.


7. Stay Flexible and Communicate

Military relocations often come with last-minute changes. Stay in close contact with your:

  • Transportation office
  • Moving company (that’s us!)
  • New command

At Millennium Moving & Storage, our military move experts keep communication clear and timelines on track—so you're never left guessing.


Why Choose Millennium Moving & Storage for Your Military Move?

We proudly support military families with:

  • Specialized PCS relocation services
  • Experienced, vetted movers
  • Transparent pricing and PPM support
  • Storage solutions and flexible scheduling

Serving those who serve means everything to us. We treat your move with the professionalism and respect it deserves.


A military move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With early planning, the right support, and expert help from Millennium Moving & Storage, your PCS relocation can be smoother than you imagined. Contact us today for a free PCS moving consultation and let’s get you mission-ready for your next destination.

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