A military PCS move timeline can feel overwhelming, but breaking down each step makes the process more manageable. Whether you’re preparing for a DITY move or working with professional movers, having a clear timeline and a solid plan will set you up for success. As someone gearing up for my 11th PCS, I can tell you—it never really gets easier, but with a little preparation, you’ll handle the move like a pro. In this guide, I’m sharing my step-by-step checklist to help you stay organized, declutter efficiently, and tackle your move one room at a time. From six months out to the last day, this timeline will make your military move smoother and less stressful.
🎯 Want a printable version of my PCS decluttering timeline to check off as you go?
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📆 6 Months Out: The Calm Before the Storm (Let’s Get a Head Start)
If you’re like me, the moment you know a PCS is coming- even if orders haven’t dropped- you start mentally prepping. At this point, things are still chill enough that you can get ahead of the chaos without burning out.
This is when I start easing into decluttering the spots we don’t use every day—our garage, storage closets, seasonal bins, and those tubs of old holiday decor. Since I’m not in a rush yet, I’ll even start going through sentimental items now. These take time and emotional energy, and I’d rather give them proper attention now than in the middle of a move when I’m already maxed out.
For those of us planning a DITY move, this is the perfect time to start thinking about how you’ll handle packing and organizing everything on your own. The early preparation will save you a ton of stress later!
And while I’m in planning mode, I also start turning one eye toward the next duty station. Whether it’s reaching out to realtors or connecting with other military families online, the earlier you start gathering info, the easier it’ll be when it’s time to make decisions.
✅ 6 Months Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep
- Start with low-traffic areas: garage, attic, holiday bins, storage closets. These spaces can often be packed away first without disrupting daily life.
- Begin sorting sentimental items: Take your time going through old photos, heirlooms, and other memories. These can take emotional energy, so getting a head start will give you more space to breathe when the move is closer.
- Pack away decor or seasonal items: Think about packing up decorations you won’t need for a while—like holiday decor, seasonal clothing, or extra vases. These aren’t the items you’ll need right before or during the move, so it’s easy to pack them early.
Logistics & Planning
- Confirm your estimated move timeline: Based on current orders or the typical timing for your next move, start ballparking when you’ll be leaving.
- Take inventory of your large furniture items: Decide what may not make the cut for the next house. If it’s in rough shape or doesn’t fit the new space, now’s the time to think about selling or donating it.
- Create a PCS binder or digital folder: Get organized from the start. Keep track of orders, appointments, contact info for movers, housing details, and anything you may need during the process.
Housing & Research
- Reach out to a realtor in your potential new area: Even if you don’t know exactly where you’re going yet, it’s a good idea to start building a relationship with a realtor. They can give you insights about the area, housing options, and availability.
- Check out MILLIE’s installation guides: These guides provide a military family perspective on neighborhoods and can help you get a head start on what to expect in your new area.
- Join local Facebook groups at the new duty station: These can be invaluable for finding housing, networking with other military spouses, and discovering local resources and support.
Kids, Schools & Family
- Start researching school options: Whether you’re looking into public, private, or homeschool options, get a head start on school research in potential zip codes.
- Look into transferring medical records: If you know you’ll be moving soon, it’s a great time to start the paperwork for transferring medical records and setting up necessary appointments.
Pro Tip: Even if you don’t know exactly where you’re going yet, now is the time to set the stage. Having a solid base plan will make all those little decisions later feel way less overwhelming, and it’ll keep you organized as the chaos of the move approaches.
📆 4 Months Out: Time to Declutter More—Think Toys, Appliances, and Décor
By this point, you’re getting closer to the move and should start tackling bigger projects—things like extra kids’ toys, appliances that aren’t used every day, and home décor you won’t need for a while. For those of us planning a DITY move, now is a good time to start organizing your packing supplies and getting ready to tackle larger items like furniture and appliances.
In my own experience, this is when I begin to make some tough decisions about what to keep and what to part with. If you’re moving from a larger house to a smaller one, that second refrigerator or large furniture piece might not make the cut. Or, if your kids have outgrown toys or clothes, it’s time to donate or sell them.
✅ 4 Months Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep
- Declutter kids’ toys, extra kitchen appliances, and home décor that won’t be needed in the immediate future.
- Pack away seasonal décor and items you won’t need, like extra vases, holiday décor, or items taking up valuable space in closets.
Medical & Admin
- Schedule medical, dental, and vision appointments for the whole family. It’s better to get these out of the way now, so you’re not scrambling as the move date approaches.
- Request referrals or specialist notes if needed for ongoing treatments, especially if someone has orthodontic work or medical care that will need to be transferred.
- Check on prescription refills, especially if you’re moving overseas, where medication availability may vary. Start coordinating prescriptions early to ensure a smooth transition.
Vehicles
- Research vehicle shipping vs. storing if you’re moving overseas or to a location where you’ll need to make decisions about your vehicle.
- If you need to sell a vehicle, now’s the time to get it cleaned, listed, and on the market. Having this sorted early takes a lot of stress off your plate.
Pets
- Research pet travel requirements—different countries and airlines may have specific rules for vaccines, quarantine, or breed restrictions.
- If needed, start working with a pet fostering organization like PACT for Animals if you need to temporarily place your pet during deployment or an OCONUS move.
- Prepare vet records and check the airline’s pet travel guidelines.
New Duty Station
- Keep watching the housing market at your new duty station, whether it’s base housing waitlists or private rentals.
- Continue engaging with local Facebook groups for the new area (spouse groups, housing pages, buy/sell groups) to get insider information on the local community, schools, and the best places to go.
✨ Pro Tip: Getting ahead on these tasks not only makes the physical moving process smoother but also allows you to focus more on your family and the things that truly matter as the move date gets closer. Starting early means fewer things to juggle when the pressure of the PCS really kicks in.
📆 3 Months Out: Room-by-Room Focus and DITY Prep
At the 3-month mark, the reality of your move is starting to set in. This is when you begin to tackle more specific decluttering projects, going room by room to ensure you’re not only ready to move but also fully prepared to pack on your own if you’re doing a DITY move.
I’ve created room-by-room decluttering checklists to help you focus on what you can get rid of in each space. These checklists will help you systematically declutter your home, making sure you’re not just tossing things last-minute or waiting until the chaos of moving day. By tackling these spaces early, you’ll not only have less to pack, but you’ll also have a clearer idea of what you truly need for your next home.
If you’re handling your own move, it’s time to think about what you can pack early and what will need special care when moving it. For larger items, make sure you have the proper packing materials and start organizing them accordingly. But remember, it’s not just about packing—it’s about getting organized so you can stay sane as the big day approaches.
✅ 3 Months Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep: Room-by-Room Breakdown
- Living Room:
- Declutter any extra furniture you don’t need.
- Pack up decorative items (throw pillows, extra vases, art, etc.) you don’t use every day.
- Start sorting out electronics (TVs, DVD players, speakers) and make sure they’re all in working condition or ready to be packed safely for a DITY move.
- Kitchen:
- Sort through kitchen appliances—those extra blenders, coffee makers, or appliances you rarely use should be packed up now.
- Go through your pantry and fridge, tossing anything that’s expired or no longer needed.
- Begin packing kitchenware (non-essentials like dishes, pots, pans you don’t use often).
- Bedrooms:
- Sort through clothes—anything that’s out of season, doesn’t fit, or you don’t love, donate it.
- Pack up extra linens (bedding, towels, etc.) that you won’t need until after the move.
- Declutter nightstands and dresser drawers, focusing on items you won’t need right away.
- Bathrooms:
- Go through bathroom products—toss any expired items, and pack up what you won’t use in the next few months.
- Sort through medicine cabinets and get rid of expired prescriptions, old makeup, or other items you can part with.
- Kids’ Rooms:
- Start going through toys and clothes your kids have outgrown. Donate or sell what they no longer use.
- Pack away seasonal clothing or items they won’t need in the next few months.
- Sort through art supplies, books, and extra furniture that won’t be used right away.
- Storage & Utility Areas:
- Declutter garage and attic spaces—start organizing tools, outdoor gear, and things you definitely won’t need before the move.
- Sort seasonal décor and holiday items, packing them carefully in labeled bins.
DITY Move Specific:
- Packing Materials: If you’re doing a DITY move, start sourcing boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and other packing materials. Don’t wait until the last minute to gather everything.
- Labeling System: Start using a labeling system for your boxes (room-by-room, fragile items marked). This will be a lifesaver when you start packing everything.
- Large Items: For larger furniture and items, take some time to measure everything to make sure it will fit in your new home. Think about how you’ll protect items like furniture with blankets or moving pads.
- Inventory List: Create a detailed inventory list of everything you plan to pack. This will help keep you organized and ensure you don’t forget anything important.
- Plan for Heavy Lifting: If you’re moving large or heavy items on your own, start thinking about whether you’ll need help or a moving dolly. Don’t hesitate to ask friends or hire temporary movers for large pieces if needed.
✨ Pro Tip: If you’re doing a DITY move, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, but breaking down the packing process room by room and starting early can really ease the stress. Plus, starting on the big stuff first means the small things will feel manageable as you approach moving day.
📆 2 Months Out: Getting Serious About Packing & More DITY Prep
At the 2-month mark, it’s crunch time! You’ve probably started to feel the pressure, but don’t worry—this is where you put all that prep work into action. Continue to declutter and focus on packing the non-essentials. For DITY movers, this is a key time to start focusing on the logistics of your move, like securing help if needed, finalizing your packing strategy, and organizing your larger items.
✅ 2 Months Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep:
- Living Room:
- Finish packing up any non-essential décor and artwork.
- Pack electronics you don’t use regularly (speakers, gaming systems, etc.).
- Kitchen:
- Pack extra appliances (think crockpot, extra toaster, etc.) you won’t need in the next two months.
- Start gathering packing materials for fragile kitchenware.
- Bedrooms:
- Finalize decluttering clothes, and continue packing seasonal items.
- Organize and pack bedding and other non-essential bedroom items.
- Bathrooms:
- Begin packing extra toiletries and medicine.
- Get rid of old products you don’t use (think expired lotions, shampoos, etc.).
- Storage & Utility Areas:
- Focus on sorting large items and seasonal décor. If you’re not sure whether it’ll fit in the new space, now’s a good time to make decisions.
DITY Move Specific:
- Moving Equipment: If you’re not hiring professional movers, consider renting a moving truck or cargo van. Start thinking about the best way to organize everything for transport.
- Labeling & Inventory: Start organizing inventory lists and continue labeling all packed boxes. Consider color-coded labels for room-specific boxes.
- Heavy Items: Take measurements of furniture to ensure it fits in your new home. Plan how you’ll move these pieces without damage.
- Check Insurance Options: If moving on your own, make sure to look into moving insurance for your items.
📆 1 Month Out: Packing & Finalizing Plans
You’ve made serious headway in decluttering and packing, but now it’s time to start thinking about the more technical aspects of the move. This is when you finalize your packing plans, secure any help for large items, and ensure everything is in order for the big day.
✅ 1 Month Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep:
- Living Room:
- Finish packing all decor, books, and extra items you don’t need immediately.
- Pack fragile items (picture frames, collectibles, etc.) securely.
- Kitchen:
- Continue packing non-essential dishes, glasses, and cooking items.
- Ensure all fragile kitchenware (china, glass) is packed properly.
- Bedrooms:
- Pack up clothing and bedding that will not be needed before the move.
- Confirm that any furniture pieces you’re not taking are sold or donated.
- Bathrooms:
- Pack extra towels and bath products.
- Donate or discard items you won’t need for the last month.
- Storage & Utility Areas:
- Begin dismantling and packing large tools or outdoor gear.
- Get rid of extra items that won’t be needed for the move.
DITY Move Specific:
- Rent Moving Equipment: If you haven’t already, finalize your moving truck rental or any moving equipment you’ll need.
- Secure Help for Heavy Items: Arrange for friends or family to assist with heavy lifting if you’re doing the move on your own. Make sure to have a plan for large furniture.
- Double-Check Packing Materials: Ensure you have enough boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and other packing supplies.
📆 2 Weeks Out: Last Push to Pack & Plan
You’re nearing the finish line! At this point, you should be nearly done packing and just have the essentials left. This is the final push to ensure that everything is packed up, your DITY move logistics are set, and you’re ready for the last few weeks of prep.
✅ 2 Weeks Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep:
- Living Room:
- Pack up any remaining small décor and furniture.
- Kitchen:
- Finish packing all non-essential items from the kitchen (leftovers can be used in your last weeks).
- Bedrooms:
- Pack up the last of the clothing and personal items from the bedroom.
- Bathrooms:
- Pack last-minute toiletries and bath essentials.
- Leave out only the most essential items for the last two weeks.
DITY Move Specific:
- Check Inventory Again: Make sure your inventory list is up to date, and double-check that you have the correct labels on boxes.
- Confirm Moving Truck: If you’re renting a truck, make sure you have the reservation confirmed and any necessary paperwork ready.
- Check on Moving Assistance: Confirm with friends or hired help that they’re still available to assist with heavy items.
📆 1 Week Out: The Final Countdown
The final week is all about wrapping up last-minute details, confirming logistics, and packing up anything still left. You should be very close to done by now—just a few remaining tasks to finish off!
✅ 1 Week Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep:
- Living Room:
- Pack any remaining decorative items, artwork, or electronics.
- Kitchen:
- Use up the last of the food in the fridge and pantry—don’t forget to toss expired or perishable items.
- Bedrooms:
- Finish packing clothes, bedding, and personal items you’ll need for the last week.
- Bathrooms:
- Pack up any remaining toiletries.
DITY Move Specific:
- Finalize Packing: Finish packing all items and load up your moving vehicle (if you’re not already in the process of loading).
- Confirm with Helpers: If you’ve arranged for help, confirm timing and expectations for moving day.
📆 2 Days Out: Last-Minute Touches
You’re in the homestretch. At this point, it’s about taking care of the small things, ensuring everything is ready for the movers (or your own move), and wrapping up any loose ends.
✅ 2 Days Out PCS Checklist:
Decluttering & Prep:
- Living Room, Kitchen, Bedrooms, Bathrooms:
- Pack up any remaining last-minute items and essentials.
- Prepare moving bags with essentials like toiletries, important documents, chargers, etc.
DITY Move Specific:
- Load Final Items: If you haven’t already, load your final items into the moving truck or vehicle.
- Confirm with Movers: If you’re using any moving help, confirm the details with them for moving day.
📆 Last Day: Ready for Moving Day!
It’s moving day! Now, you just need to get everything out the door and into your new home.
✅ Last Day PCS Checklist:
- Double-check all important documents are packed and ready for transport.
- Final walk-through of the house—check every room and closet to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything.
- Take pictures of your empty home if you’re renting—this can be useful for move-out inspections.
Moving Day! Ready or Not… here we go!
Before the movers arrive:
Wake up early, get dressed in comfy clothes, and fuel up with a good breakfast. Keep your essentials—like wallets, passports, medication, chargers, and important paperwork—in a clearly labeled tote or backpack that stays with you. Do one final sweep to make sure everything is packed and nothing is hiding in closets, under beds, or in the fridge. If you have kids or pets, make sure they’re set up in a safe spot away from the chaos (or already on their way to a friend’s house).
If you’re doing a DITY move:
Make sure your moving truck is packed tightly and safely—use ratchet straps, moving blankets, and keep a load list if you want to maximize your reimbursement. Double check weight tickets and save every receipt. If you’re driving multiple vehicles or caravanning, set up a clear plan for stops and overnight stays. And don’t forget snacks, water, and a little patience—this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Then take a breath:
Once the loading is done, take a quiet moment to walk through the empty house. Snap photos for your records, shut off lights and water, and lock up. This part might hit you harder than expected—or it might just feel like sweet relief. Either way, know that you’ve done an incredible job. You’re moving forward with experience, resilience, and maybe even a little more appreciation for what “home” really means.
You’ve got this! With this Military PCS Moving Checklist, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth transition to your next duty station. Whether you’re using professional movers or handling a DITY move, breaking everything into manageable steps will help keep stress at bay.
As someone preparing for my 11th PCS, I can tell you—moving never really gets easier, but over the years, I’ve picked up plenty of tips to make it less overwhelming. If you’re looking for more ways to stay organized and calm during your move, be sure to check out these helpful blog posts:
And if you’re looking for a way to keep all your paperwork organized during your PCS, List and File is a game-changer. It helps keep everything beautifully organized, so you can stay on top of important documents while managing the chaos of your move.
Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about being organized, flexible, and giving yourself grace. With these steps, your move will feel a lot more manageable. You’ve got this!
✨ Ready to make your PCS even smoother?
I’ve bundled everything I’ve learned over 10 moves into tools you can grab today:
Because you deserve a PCS season that feels lighter, calmer, and way less stressful.
