Preparing for a Permanent Change of Station Move
Meeting With Your Personal Property Shipping Office
The first step to take when preparing for a PCS is to meet with the personal property shipping office (PPSO) of your command. The personnel there can help make your move as smooth as possible. If you meet with them early, you have a much better chance of being authorized to move on the date you select. As a servicemember, if you have dependents or a spouse, you should round up the whole family to attend this meeting.
If you decide to let the military move you, the PPSO can handle all of your packing and shipping. You’ll still need to meet with your PPSO to arrange a do-it-yourself move (DITY) because the military will foot the bill with a relocation stipend and you’ll need to complete paperwork.
What to Expect at the PPSO
Your counselor will be able to tell you how much weight you can ship, where you can ship and how many shipments you can make on the military's dime. Furthermore, your counselor will assist you in preparing all the proper documentation for your move. Be sure that all the information you furnish is correct and that there are four copies of every shipment order. Any amendments to your shipping documents could delay your move or even cost you money.
What to Bring to the PPSO Office
Make sure you bring the following items:
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Six copies of your PCS orders for each shipment.
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Any power of attorney documents you may have, in case someone else will need to sign documents in your absence.
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Registration documents for any privately owned vehicles (POVs) or boats that will be shipped.
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The make, caliber and serial number of any firearm being shipped.
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Proof of dependents from your records.
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Dependent Entry Approval (documents that state that your dependents have been authorized to move with you).
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If you have household goods that are in storage or need to be moved from some where other than your current residence, bring that information with you.
