Marine Corps PCS Relocation Support

Start by reviewing your orders carefully, confirming your report-no-later-than date, and creating a timeline that works backward from departure. Notify your command and household members, research the destination, and gather key records. Contact the appropriate installation transportation office early to understand entitlement options, counseling requirements, shipment procedures, and available scheduling windows.

Begin planning as soon as orders are received, especially during peak summer moving periods. Early preparation gives you time to arrange counseling, compare personally procured move options, organize documents, declutter belongings, and coordinate school or housing needs. A written schedule with deadlines for packing, travel, shipment pickup, and arrival tasks makes changing timelines easier to manage.

A personally procured move, often called a PPM, is an option in which you arrange some or all transportation of household goods yourself and may be eligible for reimbursement under applicable rules. Keep weight tickets, receipts, rental agreements, and other required records. Obtain official counseling before committing to a move method so you understand documentation and reimbursement requirements.

Household goods may be moved through a government-arranged shipment, a personally procured move, or a combination of authorized options. The transportation office can explain shipment weight allowances, pickup scheduling, delivery procedures, and claims processes. Before packing begins, separate essential travel items, important documents, and valuables that should remain with you rather than in shipment.

Changes can sometimes be accommodated, but availability depends on the mover, season, location, and how much notice is provided. Contact your transportation office and moving provider immediately if orders, leave plans, housing, or report dates change. Record every updated confirmation and keep your command informed when a revised timeline could affect travel or check-in arrangements.

Budget for costs that may arise before reimbursement or outside authorized coverage, such as meals, fuel, lodging, deposits, vehicle maintenance, pet travel, and temporary household needs. Review current travel and allowance guidance through official channels, because entitlements vary by order type and circumstances. Keep organized receipts and maintain a contingency fund for unexpected schedule changes.

Carry passports, identification, orders, financial records, medical information, legal documents, medications, and irreplaceable valuables with you whenever possible. Photograph high-value possessions before packing and make a room-by-room inventory. During pickup and delivery, review paperwork carefully, note visible damage or missing items immediately, and retain copies of all shipment records for any future claim.

Prioritize check-in requirements, safe lodging, housing arrangements, and access to essential services. Update contact information, enroll children in school when applicable, transfer medical care, and confirm household goods delivery details. Give your household time to adjust by using a simple arrival checklist. Local installation resources can help identify newcomer programs, support services, and community information.