Let's Talk Articles

The standard shipment for most PCS moves, and what to expect for CONUS and OCONUS moves.

What can go in your express shipment, how it travels, and what happens if it is denied.

Who is authorized NTS, where it is stored, and how release works.

Your final move: where you can ship, the 3-year window, extensions and storage options.

Moving yourself on your PCS orders: set up, methods, red flags and how to get paid.

Shipping or storing your car on PCS orders: what is allowed, how to prep it, turn-in day, pick-up and claims.

What to do before and after you receive official orders.

Why so many companies are listed in your DPS email, and which one you actually work with.

How to prepare your home so the packing crew can do their job.

Arrival windows, what gets packed, and checking inventories before you sign.

How to get box descriptions that actually tell you what is inside.

Directing the crew, checking off inventory and noting loss or damage.

What a full or partial unpack includes, and what it does not.

The chain of command for PCS problems, from your move coordinator up to TRANSCOM.

How to read the inventory forms and the condition codes before you sign.

What belongs on the high value list, how to describe it, and checking it on delivery day.

Your rights with electronic inventories, and when to refuse to sign.

What counts toward the 500-pound spouse pro-gear entitlement, and what does not.

How to document a collection so it is protected on the high value inventory.

Temporary lodging: how it differs from per diem, government lodging rules and the daily cap.

How travel days are calculated and what each family member receives, with a worked example.

What the dislocation allowance is for, and where to check this year’s rates.

How PCS mileage works for up to two vehicles, and where to check the current rate.

How much the moving company is liable for, and who decides replace versus repair.

Filing deadlines, countering low offers, and when to go to the Military Claims Office.

Why you need your own insurance and your own home inventory, even with the movers’ coverage.

Inconvenience, essential items, quick, regular household goods and real property claims, and their deadlines.

Document everything before the move, then file one organized claim with our free template.

For when the to-do list feels like too much.

How letting one crew skip the rules puts the next family in a bind.

What TRANSCOM guidance says about meals and tips for your crew.

Using trackers in your shipments, and what to know before you buy.

Quick answers to the questions families ask most: NTS totes, claim deadlines, PPMs and more.

Why online groups can feel scary, and what makes Your Smooth Move different.

Get organized, make a game plan, set the tone and know the regulations so you can advocate for yourself.

Why playing the system hurts every military family, and how kindness changes the move.

Packing private items discreetly, from canvas boxes and batteries to OCONUS rules.