PCSing: 10 Best Practices
PCSing: 10 Best Practices
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) season can be a stressful time for Marines and their families, but with proper planning and preparation, the transition can be much smoother. Here are some best practices to help Marines and their families navigate the PCS season:
- Start Planning Early: The earlier you start planning for a PCS move, the better. Start by researching your new duty station, including housing options, schools, and local amenities. Reach out to other Marines who have been stationed there to get tips and advice. Make a list of all the tasks that need to be completed, and start checking them off as early as possible.
- Read MARADMIN 211/23: This will be linked below.
- Get Organized: Staying organized is key to a successful PCS move. Use a planner or calendar to keep track of important deadlines and appointments, and keep all your paperwork in one place. Label boxes and keep an inventory of what's inside, so you can easily find what you need when you arrive at your new duty station.
- Communicate Effectively: Good communication is crucial during a PCS move, both with your spouse and with your command. Keep your command informed of your plans and progress, and make sure your spouse is up to date on any changes or developments. Reach out to the Distribution Management Office (DMO) if you have any questions or concerns.
- Attend PCS Workshop: Marine and Family Services provides an abundance of information and resources on your next PCS relocation at Building 5305 (The HUB). Also, the workshop discusses all aspects of financial entitlements, Tricare, sponsorship requests, and much more. For registration visit www.MiramarTRS.eventbrite.com or call 858-307-1428 for more information.
- Take Care of Yourself: PCS moves can be stressful, so it's important to take care of yourself and your family during this time. Get plenty of rest, eat well, and exercise regularly. Take breaks when you need them, and reach out for support from your military community if necessary. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential to being able to take care of others.
- Document and Take Pictures: Cover yourself and your property by documenting everything.
- Stay Positive: Moving to a new duty station can be a great opportunity to meet new people, explore new places, and experience new things. Try to stay positive and embrace the adventure. Look for ways to get involved in your new community, and make the most of your time there.
- If you need legal assistance, reach out sooner rather than later.
- Ask the Right People: There is a lot of information out there. Make sure you get it from the proper sources. There are a lot of rumors about PCSing.
An underutilized resource that service members and families overlook is their Information, Referral, and Relocation specialist. Most duty stations have an I&R there to assist you with your PCS. Additionally, to find information about a future duty station, Marines should go to: https://installations.militaryonesource.mil/
Three things often overlooked by service members and families are:
- Overseas suitability/Operational Screening. These screenings take a lot of time and need to be started as soon as the Service Member has orders in hand.
- Attending the PCS Workshop. According to MCO 1754.10B (encl 1, para 11), it is mandatory for all Marines to attend PCS Workshop at least 90 days prior to departure. IPAC will not let Marines check out of MCAS Miramar without having completed PCS Workshop. Spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend.
- Contacting the local School Liaison Office for any school-aged children’s questions. Different states and school districts have different educational rules and guidelines.
PCS moves can be challenging and stressful. Stay organized, communicate, and register for a PCS workshops. Don't wait until the last minute. Starting early will help you and your family transition smoothly to your next exciting destination, where a new chapter awaits you.
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