Welcome to the PCS Education Hub

The checklist is just the start. Explore step-by-step breakdowns, short videos, official references, and targeted strategies for every part of your PCS journey

The PCS Playbook

Every Sailor’s move is different. That’s why I’ve broken the PCS process into specific real-world situations — whether you’re heading overseas, moving with family, or just starting your career. Get targeted strategies, web-based checklists, and short video guidance for your exact scenario

Segment 1: 90 - 60 Days Before Detachment (Enhanced PCS Guide)

By Praxedes Cotrina
Real Estate Professional, Broadsight Realty
📍 Hampton Roads, VA | 📞 757-822-3609 | ✉️ praxedes@broadsight.net

You ve served this country. I ve walked that road now I serve you in your search for home.

This phase of your PCS (Permanent Change of Station) move is about more than paperwork it s about positioning yourself and your family for a successful and stress-reduced transition. Every step in this checklist is explained with depth and strategy, helping you not only fulfill requirements but understand why they matter and how they protect your benefits, finances, and timeline.

✅ Read Your PCS Orders Like a Legal Contract

📘 Why it matters: Your PCS orders are your legal and financial authorization for everything travel, housing, dependents, entitlements. Errors or omissions can block reimbursements and delay your transfer.

       Verify report date, command codes, family member authorizations, and funding notes.

       Special Instructions may override standard entitlements do not ignore them.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Are my dependents listed and funded for travel?

       - Are there any restrictions or overrides in the special instructions?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1320-304; JTR Section 0502

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Create physical and digital copies. You'll need them for travel, claims, housing, and school enrollment.

✅ Request a Sponsor (Especially for Overseas or First PCS)

📘 Why it matters: A good sponsor can help you avoid missteps, connect to local resources, and get insider knowledge of the area you're PCSing to especially vital in Hampton Roads.

       They can help with housing, school info, commute planning, and base culture.

       Sponsors can connect you to Family Readiness Groups and Ombudsmen.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Who is my command sponsor? Can they send a housing waitlist update or BAH estimator?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1300-300

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Request your sponsor proactively. Do not wait for them to reach out.

✅ Complete Overseas Screening (if applicable)

📘 Why it matters: Your entire overseas PCS depends on this. One red flag in EFMP (Exceptional Family Member Program) can delay or change orders.

       Screenings are mandatory for all family members going overseas.

       Medical/dental clearance is required before DEA (Dependent Entry Approval).

❓ What to Ask:

       - Can I begin screening early to prevent command delays?

       - What forms or checklists do I need to bring to medical?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1300-306, 1300-316

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Start within 7 days of orders. Waiting could cost you housing, travel, or school enrollment timing.

✅ Apply for Dependent Entry Approval (DEA)

📘 Why it matters: DEA is required for family members to PCS overseas with you. Without it, travel and housing benefits are denied.

       Submit paperwork through Admin/CPPA (Command Pay and Personnel Administrator) as early as possible.

       Some locations take 30+ days to process.

❓ What to Ask:

       - What is the current turnaround time for DEA?

       - What happens if my dependent doesn t clear in time?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1300-302; Command SOPs

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Ask if your command allows early packet submission before screening is fully complete.

✅ Apply for No-Fee Passports & Visas (Overseas only)

📘 Why it matters: Dependents cannot PCS overseas on tourist passports. Without the no-fee version, they won t be reimbursed.

       Only processed through command channels not at the post office.

       Visas may be required (e.g., Japan, Italy, Bahrain).

❓ What to Ask:

       - Can my command expedite these applications?

       - Do we need visas for our destination?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1300-302; Foreign Clearance Guide

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Expect 8 12 weeks minimum. Start now.

✅ Start Housing Research with HEAT & HOMES.mil

📘 Why it matters: Early action means getting on the housing waitlist sooner, reducing or eliminating hotel costs.

       HEAT: Housing Early Assistance Tool (https://ffr.cnic.navy.mil/Navy-Housing/HEAT/)

       HOMES.mil: Search on-base and off-base housing availability

❓ What to Ask:

       - What is the BAH for my new location?

       - Are there any safe, short-commute zip codes I should consider?

📘 Reference: Navy Housing Office; CNIC Resources

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Even if you do not use base housing, use HEAT to open communication lines.

✅ Request Advance Pay (0% Interest Loan)

📘 Why it matters: This is a financial tool not free money. Used wisely, it helps cover upfront costs. Misused, it becomes a budget burden.

       Up to 3 months of base pay advanced, paid back over 12 months.

       Must be requested through NPPSC 1300/1 via Admin.

❓ What to Ask:

       - How much will be deducted monthly?

       - Can this cover deposits or relocation expenses?

📘 Reference: JTR 051003; DoDFMR Vol. 7A

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Use it to pay off high-interest debt or build a PCS cushion. Avoid using it for vehicles, electronics, or impulse purchases.

✅ Schedule Entitlements Review with CPPA (Command Pay and Personnel Administrator)

📘 Why it matters: This ensures you're not leaving money or benefits on the table or worse, violating the rules.

       Review: Dislocation Allowance (DLA), MALT (Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation), Temporary Lodging Entitlements (TLE/TLA), PPM (Personally Procured Move), HHG weight, GTCC (Government Travel Charge Card) status, and Split Disbursement options.

❓ What to Ask:

       - What entitlements apply to my orders?

       - What do I need to do for reimbursement later?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapters 5 & 9; NPPSC Guidelines

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Ask about the PCS Entitlement Calculator. It will help you plan your move financially with fewer surprises.

Segment 2: Financial & Travel Entitlements Enhanced PCS Checklist

By Praxedes Cotrina
Real Estate Professional, Broadsight Realty
📍 Hampton Roads, VA | 📞 757-822-3609 | ✉️ praxedes@broadsight.net

Still serving those who serve one PCS at a time.

This segment dives deep into PCS entitlements the money, allowances, and reimbursements that every Sailor should understand and plan for. Misunderstanding these benefits can cost thousands. This guide breaks each one down with instructions, questions to ask, strategic advice, and verified references.

1. Dislocation Allowance (DLA)

📘 What it is: A flat-rate payment to offset out-of-pocket expenses when relocating your household.

📌 Details:

       Available for most moves, including CONUS to CONUS and CONUS to OCONUS.

       E-4 and below without dependents require CO approval.

       Not available if moving into government quarters at the gaining command.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Do I rate DLA for this move based on my paygrade and dependents?

       - Will I be moving into base housing immediately? If so, am I still eligible?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapter 5, Section 0505; DoD FMR Vol. 7A Chapter 26

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Use DLA to cover deposits, utility start-up fees, or to offset pet transportation costs if not reimbursed.

2. Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT)

📘 What it is: Mileage reimbursement when you drive your privately owned vehicle (POV) to your new duty station.

📌 Details:

       Paid per authorized vehicle, based on the official mileage between duty stations.

       Also includes per diem for travel days depending on distance.

❓ What to Ask:

       - How many vehicles am I authorized to claim under MALT?

       - Do I need orders annotated for dependents traveling separately?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapter 2, Section 0205

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Calculate your route using Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD). Deviating from this route may require justification.

3. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) / Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA)

📘 What it is: Reimbursement for hotel stays while awaiting permanent housing.

📌 Details:

       TLE is for CONUS (within the U.S.) max 14 days, reimbursed at 75% per diem for dependents.

       TLA is for OCONUS multiple extensions allowed until housing is available.

       Must stay in a government-approved facility or provide justification.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Am I staying at an approved hotel for TLE/TLA reimbursement?

       - How many days am I authorized, and can it be extended?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapter 5, Sections 050601 050603

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Keep receipts, lodging statements, and meal breakdowns. Submit claims within 5 days of check-out to avoid GTCC late fees.

4. Personally Procured Move (PPM) Formerly DITY Move

📘 What it is: Get reimbursed for moving some or all of your household goods (HHG) yourself.

📌 Details:

       Reimbursement is based on the weight you move and the government s HHG rate.

       Requires pre-approval from local Personal Property Office and official weight tickets.

❓ What to Ask:

       - What forms and documents do I need to file for PPM?

       - What are the current HHG rates for my weight class and distance?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapter 5, Sections 0510 0511; Navy Household Goods Website

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Sailors with pickup trucks or trailers can profit from a PPM, especially for short-distance moves. Use certified scales only.

5. Circuitous Travel

📘 What it is: Authorized detour for OCONUS travel due to family, cost, or visa needs.

📌 Details:

       May allow travel through alternate routes for dependent relocation.

       Must be pre-approved and documented in orders or endorsements.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Do my orders authorize circuitous travel? If not, can I request it through Admin or PERS?

       - What will I need to file for reimbursement?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapter 3, Section 0320; MILPERSMAN 4650-020

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Used often for overseas locations when direct flights are unavailable or unaffordable. Keep boarding passes and itemized itineraries.

6. GTCC (Government Travel Charge Card) Use

📘 What it is: Your official card for travel-related PCS expenses to be paid off after claim reimbursement.

📌 Details:

       Must be placed in Mission Critical status by Admin before PCS.

       Only authorized for lodging, fuel, and other approved expenses.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Has my GTCC been activated and placed in Mission Critical status?

       - When is my payment due, and what happens if reimbursement is delayed?

📘 Reference: DoD FMR Vol. 9, GTCC Guidelines; NAVADMIN 220/19

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Use split disbursement on your travel claim so your GTCC is paid directly. This avoids late fees or interest.

7. Split Disbursement & Supplemental Claims

📘 What it is: Split disbursement pays your GTCC directly. Supplemental claims let you recover missed or delayed expenses.

📌 Details:

       You must designate how much of your travel claim goes to the GTCC.

       You can file a supplemental claim up to 6 years after the PCS if you missed an entitlement.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Did I check the split disbursement box on my travel claim?

       - Can I file a supplemental claim for items I forgot or was denied reimbursement for?

📘 Reference: JTR Appendix G; Travel Voucher Instructions (DD Form 1351-2)

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Always keep scanned receipts and documentation for any PCS-related costs. If in doubt, file a supplemental.

Segment 3: Household Goods, POV & Pets Enhanced PCS Checklist

By Praxedes Cotrina
Real Estate Professional, Broadsight Realty
📍 Hampton Roads, VA | 📞 757‑822‑3609 | ✉️ praxedes@broadsight.net

Still serving those who serve one PCS at a time.

📝 Introduction

This checklist focuses on shipping household goods, vehicle transport, pet relocation, and storage. Mistakes here can cost time, money, or heartache. Let s break it down with clarity, official references, and smart strategies.

 

1. Household Goods (HHG) Shipment

What it is: Government-ordered shipment of your personal property to your next duty station.

  • Details:
    • Weight allowances vary based on rank and dependents (see JTR 051401)
    • Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at milmove.mil to book
    • Inventory lists, high-value items, and pickup/delivery windows are essential
  • Questions to Ask:
    • What s my certified weight allowance?
    • When should I schedule pickup to meet my detachment date?
  • References: JTR Chap 5 0514; NAVSUP Household Goods
  • Smart Strategy: Purge before packing overweight charges hurt. Claim pro‑gear if you have career tools or equipment.

 

2. Personally Procured Move (PPM)

What it is: You move some/all goods yourself and get reimbursed based on government cost.

  • Details:
    • Approval needed before moving check with Personal Property Office
    • Provide certified scale tickets and receipts
    • You can do partial government/partial PPM
  • Questions to Ask:
    • Am I eligible for full or partial PPM?
    • What forms and receipts do I need?
  • References: JTR Chap 5 0511; Navy HHG Move Site
  • Smart Strategy: Choose PPM with truck/trailer access you could come out ahead financially.

 

3. Non‑Temporary Storage (NTS)

What it is: Long-term storage of goods (commonly OCONUS or shipboard assignments).

  • Details:
    • Must be authorized in orders and coordinated with Property Office
    • Stored in government-contracted warehouses can last entire overseas tour
    • Includes packing, insurance, and retrieval on return
  • Questions to Ask:
    • Does my orders authorize NTS?
    • Where s it stored, and what s the reclaim process?
  • References: JTR Chap 5 0518; NAVSUP NTS Guide
  • Smart Strategy: Ideal if overseas housing is small store furniture and large items until return.

 

4. Vehicle Shipping (POV)

What it is: Transporting one personal vehicle, typically to OCONUS assignments.

  • Details:
    • One vehicle per PCS; must meet host-country, safety, and emissions standards
    • Use PCSmyPOV to schedule and track the vehicle pickup
    • CONUS-to-CONUS shipping is rare and needs special hardship approval
  • Questions to Ask:
    • Is my POV eligible under my current orders?
    • What docs are required at the VPC (Vehicle Processing Center)?
  • References: JTR Chap 5 0520; PCSmyPOV Guidance
  • Smart Strategy: Drop off early space fills fast. Clean out personal items, fuel ≤ tank, and document mileage.

 

5. Pets Transport & Reimbursement

What it is: Reimbursable transport for pets during OCONUS moves (subject to limits).

  • Details:
    • Per FY23 NDAA: up to $550 (CONUS → OCONUS) / $2,000 (OCONUS → CONUS)
    • Check airline and destination pet policies
    • Pets must be listed in orders and pre-approved; coordinate with base Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF)
  • Questions to Ask:
    • Does my destination allow pets? What are the vaccine/quarantine requirements?
    • How do I claim pet-moving costs?
  • References: JTR Chap 5 053001; FY23 NDAA 624
  • Smart Strategy: Book early. Track all receipts vet, cargo, certificates. Confirm your entitlement with Admin before travel.

 

Segment 4: Admin, Orders & Paperwork 30 to 0 Days Before Detachment

By Praxedes Cotrina
Real Estate Professional, Broadsight Realty
📍 Hampton Roads, VA | 📞 757-822-3609 | ✉️ praxedes@broadsight.net

Still serving those who serve one PCS at a time.

This checklist focuses on the final 30 days before detaching from your current command. This is where your paperwork, screenings, and travel preparations must be locked in. Missing just one of these steps can delay your PCS orders, disrupt pay, or create unnecessary stress. Follow this enhanced guide to stay ahead and travel smart.

1. Confirm Official Orders & Itinerary

📘 What it is: Ensure your PCS orders are finalized, accurate, and uploaded into NSIPS/TOPS/DTMS.

📌 Details:

       Check command endorsements, detachment date, dependents listed, and travel type.

       Verify your port call or itinerary if OCONUS including connecting flights.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Has Admin uploaded the most current copy of my orders?

       - Are all dependents listed correctly, and do orders match entitlements?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1320-300; NSIPS User Guide

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Print 5 10 copies. Keep a digital PDF on your phone and email.

2. Overseas/Medical Screening & Dependent Entry Approval (DEA)

📘 What it is: Mandatory for OCONUS moves ensures medical readiness and clearance for you and your dependents.

📌 Details:

       Complete NAVMED 1300/1 and NAVPERS 1300/16.

       DEA approval must be completed and routed through Admin and PSD.

       Medical screening includes EFMP status and vaccinations for destination country.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Is my screening current and submitted to the gaining command?

       - Have my dependents been cleared and approved for overseas entry?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1300-304; BUMEDINST 1300.2B

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Start this immediately after receiving orders. DEA can take weeks to approve don't wait.

3. Passports, Visas & No-Fee Travel Docs (OCONUS Only)

📘 What it is: You may need a No-Fee passport or visa depending on destination and orders.

📌 Details:

       Submit DD Form 1056 through Admin for No-Fee passport requests.

       Not all countries require a visa check the DoD Foreign Clearance Guide.

       Passports can take 4 8 weeks to process start early.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Do my dependents and I need a No-Fee passport?

       - What supporting docs do I need for DD Form 1056?

📘 Reference: DoD Foreign Clearance Guide; MILPERSMAN 1320-304

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Use command sponsorship approval and DD1056 to avoid paying out of pocket. Check expiration dates.

4. Final Travel Prep: Lodging, Itinerary, Pet Travel

📘 What it is: Confirm all travel arrangements including temporary lodging and pet coordination.

📌 Details:

       Use DTS or TMC (Travel Management Center) to confirm air reservations.

       Ensure lodging is TLE/TLA-eligible and approved if arriving early or late.

       Coordinate pet travel and ensure proper documentation is attached to orders if claiming reimbursement.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Is my flight itinerary official and does it match orders?

       - Have I confirmed TLE/TLA lodging rates and reservations?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapter 5; Defense Travel Manual

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Triple-check arrival dates, lodging address, and pet transport receipts. Keep digital backups.

5. GTCC Activation & Split Disbursement

📘 What it is: Ensure your Government Travel Charge Card is placed in mission-critical status.

📌 Details:

       Work with Admin to update GTCC status to avoid late fees while in transit.

       On travel claim, designate portion to go directly to GTCC (split disbursement).

❓ What to Ask:

       - Is my GTCC set to mission-critical status before I detach?

       - How much of my travel claim will go toward the GTCC balance?

📘 Reference: DoD FMR Vol 9; NAVADMIN 220/19

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Request email confirmation of GTCC update. File travel claim ASAP after check-in to avoid delinquency.

6. Copies of Receipts, Orders & Travel Claims

📘 What it is: Maintain a complete record of everything electronic and hard copy.

📌 Details:

       Scan receipts for lodging, pet costs, travel, HHG, and POV.

       Include endorsements, port calls, and any amendments to original orders.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Do I have scanned and physical copies of all travel and PCS documents?

       - What s the timeline to file my travel claim once I arrive?

📘 Reference: DD Form 1351-2; JTR Appendix G

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Use a PCS binder or a secure cloud folder (Google Drive, OneDrive) for backups.

Segment 5: Arrival & Local Integration Enhanced PCS Checklist

By Praxedes Cotrina
Real Estate Professional, Broadsight Realty
📍 Hampton Roads, VA | 📞 757-822-3609 | ✉️ praxedes@broadsight.net

Still serving those who serve one PCS at a time.

Congratulations you ve arrived! But PCS isn t over yet. This checklist focuses on everything you need to do once you reach your new duty station. From checking in, to setting up housing, to getting settled in the community this phase is about execution, entitlement finalization, and smart local integration. Let s make sure you finish strong.

1. Official Check-In at New Command

📘 What it is: Report to your new command with endorsed orders and travel documentation.

📌 Details:

       Bring multiple copies of your endorsed PCS orders and port call/flight itinerary.

       Ensure Admin logs your arrival into NSIPS and notifies Personnel Support Detachment (PSD).

❓ What to Ask:

       - Has my check-in been processed in NSIPS and PSD?

       - Did Admin receive and endorse all travel documents?

📘 Reference: MILPERSMAN 1320-310; NSIPS Check-in Procedures

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Get a signed endorsement on your orders at check-in. Keep one copy for your travel claim and one for your records.

2. File Your Travel Claim

📘 What it is: Submit your DD Form 1351-2 and required documentation to receive reimbursement.

📌 Details:

       Include lodging, transportation, meal receipts, and pet-related expenses (if eligible).

       Use the Travel Voucher Direct (TVD) site or submit directly to PSD.

       Split disbursement should pay GTCC balance first.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Did I include all receipts and endorsements?

       - How long will it take to process my claim?

📘 Reference: JTR Appendix G; DoD FMR Volume 9, Chapter 8

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Scan and upload your claim online. Follow up weekly with PSD or travel office until fully paid.

3. Housing & TLA/TLE Setup

📘 What it is: Secure housing or coordinate for temporary lodging if you're still awaiting a permanent residence.

📌 Details:

       Use Navy Housing Services or HOMES.mil to begin search.

       If eligible for Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) or Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE), confirm daily rates and per diem.

       Submit lodging receipts to PSD to avoid delays in reimbursement.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Is my lodging eligible for TLA/TLE reimbursement?

       - Have I registered with Navy Housing or HOMES.mil?

📘 Reference: JTR Chapter 5 Section 0505; CNIC Housing

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Use local Navy housing office as your advocate. Don t sign leases until entitlements and location are confirmed.

4. Local Area Orientation & Resources

📘 What it is: Learn your surroundings and take advantage of newcomer resources.

📌 Details:

       Attend Command Indoctrination or Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC) briefs.

       Locate base medical, dental, NEX, commissary, and MWR services.

       Register kids in DEERS, TRICARE, and local schools if applicable.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Where s my nearest FFSC and base medical clinic?

       - Does the command offer a sponsor program for local guidance?

📘 Reference: OPNAVINST 1740.3E; CNIC Fleet and Family Services

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Take advantage of everything free from welcome packets to resume workshops and community events.

5. Get Plugged In: Community, Support & Next Steps

📘 What it is: Start building your support system and planning your time at this new duty station.

📌 Details:

       Connect with ombudsman, community groups, and chapel services.

       If you own a home or are looking to buy, explore VA loan resources and local real estate support.

       Update your address in MyNavy Portal, TRICARE, USPS, and with your bank/creditors.

❓ What to Ask:

       - Who is my ombudsman or local Navy support rep?

       - What financial resources or workshops are available nearby?

📘 Reference: MyNavy Portal; Military OneSource; VA.gov

💡 Smart Sailor Strategy: Think long-term. Use this time to plan financially, connect locally, and ensure your next PCS is even smoother.

Contact Me

📧 praxedes@broadsight.net
📱 757-822-3609
📍 Military Relocation Specialist / VA Loan Certified 

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