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Move Management

PCS Toolkit

A military move is a massive logistical operation. This toolkit is your new command center.

From the moment you have orders in hand, our interactive checklists, budget worksheets, and timelines will guide you through every critical step. Learn how to organize your household goods, manage travel claims, and navigate the TLE/DLA reimbursement process. Research your new base and explore career opportunities in your new location.

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Empowering Military Families

FamilyMedia.com is committed to providing best-in-class resources for the military community. This hub is a free tool designed to empower military families in their PCS journey.

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PHASE ONE

Pre-Move Prep (3-6 Months Out)

The work you do now pays off later. Lay the foundation for a smooth move by tackling these key tasks early.

Interactive PCS Timeline Generator

Enter your Report No Later Than Date to generate a personalized timeline with key deadlines and action windows.

Detailed Task Checklist

Check off tasks as you complete them. Your progress is saved automatically.

Financial Command Center

Comprehensive financial planning for your PCS move with PPM profit estimation and real-time expense tracking.

Estimated Income

Estimated Expenses

Net Estimate:

$0.00

This is an estimate for planning purposes only.

Researching Your Next Duty Station?

Explore our in-depth guides to over 25 bases, complete with info on housing, schools, and pro-tips from families who've been there.

A preview of the FamilyMedia.com Interactive Base Guide Hub Launch the Interactive Base Guide Hub
PHASE TWO

The Move (The Main Event)

It's go-time. Focus on execution, from managing the movers to keeping essential documents at your fingertips.

Logistics & In-Transit Hub

Comprehensive resources for the chaotic moving days. Choose your move type for specialized guidance.

Packing Day Essentials

  • Be present and proactive during packing. Label special items and watch the inventory sheet.
  • The packers create an inventory list ("Bingo Sheet"). Scrutinize the condition codes (e.g., SC for scratched, PBO for packed by owner) and challenge any you disagree with before signing.
  • Separate items you don't want packed into a "DO NOT PACK" room.
  • Take photos of high-value items before packing begins.

Claims Guardian

Document everything to simplify damage claims later. Take photos of high-value items before packing and keep copies of the inventory sheet.

Moving Day Survival & Document Hub

Tips for managing kids and pets, plus a list of every critical document to hand-carry.

Hand-Carry Document Checklist:

  • Official orders (at least 10 copies)
  • Passports, birth certificates, SS cards
  • Marriage certificates, vehicle titles
  • School and medical records
  • Pet health and vaccination records
  • Copies of wills and powers of attorney

"First Day" Box Essentials:

  • Toilet paper & paper towels
  • Basic cleaning supplies & trash bags
  • Box cutter and basic tools
  • Phone chargers & portable speaker
  • Towels and soap
  • Paper plates, cups, and utensils
  • Snacks, water bottles, and instant coffee

On-the-Road Toolkit

Mobile-first resources for use during your actual drive. Perfect for keeping on your phone.

PHASE THREE

Settling In (First 30 Days)

You've arrived. Now it's time to turn a new house into a home and connect with your new community.

Claims Tracker

Log damaged items from your move and track claim status with moving companies.

Important: You have 180 days from delivery to report loss or damage in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). Use this tracker to stay organized for your official submission.

Add New Claim

Your Claims

Community Connector

Make your new base feel like home with these community integration resources.

Base Resources

Base Guide - Commissary, Exchange, MWR locations

Support Services

Social Connections

EFMP Navigator

Specialized resources for families in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).

EFMP Resources

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A Proud Supporter of Military Families

What you're made of, we're made for.®

For over 100 years, USAA has been committed to serving the financial needs of the military community. From insurance to investments, we proudly support military families on their path to financial security.

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