When Are PCS Orders Typically Received?
When Are PCS Orders Typically Received?
Receiving PCS orders is an exciting time for military families as they prepare for relocation and embark on a new chapter in their lives. While the government provides allowances to assist with moving expenses, these allowances may not cover all the costs associated with such a significant undertaking.
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Orders
PCS moves are a common occurrence for military personnel, with approximately 400,000 service members experiencing this transition each year. When PCS orders are received, the process of packing up and vacating the current residence begins. Typically, service members will check into a hotel or temporary housing on the base before embarking on their journey or returning home if based overseas.
Once the PCS date is known, planning can commence in earnest. While an assignment notification may provide an estimate of when the move will happen, the official orders will arrive by mail to confirm the details.
To facilitate a smooth PCS move, it is essential to create an inventory of the items you plan to bring with you. This inventory will be helpful when completing the necessary paperwork through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) in case any items are lost or damaged during transit. Additionally, budgeting for relocation expenses is crucial, as the government's allocation for moving services and related costs is limited.
Temporary Change of Station (TCS) Orders
TCS orders, which include Temporary Duty (TDY) orders, allow military members to relocate to new locations temporarily. These orders specify the anticipated check-in date for reporting to the new assignment.
Upon arrival at the new assignment location, service members and their families must undergo proper screening for overseas travel. If traveling outside of the United States, they will need a no-fee passport. It is important to follow the outlined procedures in MILPERSMAN Articles 1300-300 through 1300-306 and 1300-316 when making these arrangements.
Moving can be a challenging time for service members and their families, especially during peak PCS season when there may be a shortage of movers and labor. To ease the transition, service members should start planning as soon as they receive their assignment notification. This may involve decluttering and organizing their current home before taking inventory of the belongings that will accompany them. This step is crucial in case any items are misplaced or lost during transit or upon arrival at the new duty station.
Deployment Orders
Military personnel typically receive information about their deployment schedule several months in advance, depending on their job function. Some roles, such as aircraft maintainers, pilots, and security police, may deploy frequently. Deployment notices usually follow a warning order, which is then followed by movement orders.
Deployments involve sending personnel or equipment forward for training or combat operations. These orders are different from PCS/TDY orders as they do not affect current assignments.
Similar to TDY and PCS orders, deployment orders indicate the TCS (mobilization station) and the date of departure. Most deployment orders provide government transportation, quarters, and meals at no cost to the service member. If the deployment location is outside commuting distance, daily incidental expenses for travel days may apply. Additional details can be found in the MOB (Mobilization) section, and it is important to carefully review the AWARD orders for any additional entitlements.
Travel Orders
Once PCS orders to an overseas location are received, service members and their families should promptly contact the Personal Property Transportation and Household Goods office. In addition to applying for no-fee passports as required by MILPERSMAN Article 4650-020 for overseas screening and Dependent Entry approval processes, they should also update command websites and Welcome Aboard packages accordingly. It is important to note that there may be restrictions on shipping household goods and privately owned vehicles depending on the destination.
Any authorized commander, civilian employee employing command, or the gaining command itself can issue orders to fill positions. A PCS travel order should include the information specified in Table 5, indicating the first Permanent Duty Station (PDS) location overseas, clearly marked as "PCS to first duty station." The order may also specify whether TDY en route is authorized, along with the appropriate per diem rate and authorization information.
When Are PCS Orders Typically Received? Receiving PCS orders is an exciting time for military families as they prepare for relocation and embark on a new chapter in their lives. While the government provides allowances to assist with moving expenses, these allowances may not cover all the costs associated with such a significant undertaking. Permanent…