Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves are a regular part of military life, but understanding what expenses are covered and which ones aren’t can sometimes be confusing. In this guide, we’ll break down the moving expenses typically covered by the military and those that may fall outside the coverage.
What’s Covered:
Transportation of Household Goods: The military typically covers the cost of moving your household goods from your current location to your new duty station. This includes packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking.
Temporary Lodging: In some cases, the military will cover the cost of temporary lodging if your new home is not immediately available. This could include reimbursement for hotel expenses or temporary housing accommodations. The duration of temporary lodging can vary but typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks. It’s advisable to contact a local realtor at your new duty station for assistance in finding suitable housing options.
Travel Expenses: The military usually reimburses travel expenses for you and your dependents to travel to your new duty station. This may include airfare, mileage reimbursement if driving, and per diem for meals and incidental expenses.
Storage of Household Goods: If you’re unable to move all of your household goods to your new duty station immediately, the military may cover the cost of storing them temporarily.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Some miscellaneous expenses related to your move may also be covered, such as vehicle registration fees, driver’s license fees, and tolls.
What’s Not Covered:
Personal Travel: While the military typically covers travel expenses for you and your dependents to your new duty station, any personal travel expenses incurred during the move are generally not covered.
Non-Allowable Items: Certain items may not be covered for transportation by the military, such as hazardous materials, perishable foods, and certain high-value items like jewelry or antiques.
Excessive Weight: There are weight limits for the transportation of household goods, and any excess weight may not be covered by the military. Additional charges may apply for transporting items that exceed these limits.
Extra Services: If you request additional services beyond what the military covers, such as additional packing or storage services, you may be responsible for covering those expenses yourself.
Damage to Household Goods: While the military typically provides coverage for damage to household goods during transit, there may be limitations and exclusions. It’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities regarding filing claims for damaged items.
PCS moves can be stressful, but knowing what expenses are covered by the military can help alleviate some of that stress. By understanding what’s covered and what’s not, you can better prepare for your move and ensure a smoother transition to your new duty station.
Remember to consult with your military relocation office or finance office for specific guidance related to your PCS move, as policies and procedures may vary depending on your branch of service and individual circumstances. Safe travels!
