What Out-of-Pocket Expenses Should You Expect for a Military Move?

Moving in the military has its own set of rules and considerations that set it apart from any other kind of relocation. Because it’s an inherent part of your service, there will be many costs the military handles, but some moving expenses will be on you.

Breaking Down the Costs of Moving in the Military

The armed forces look at certain things within a soldier’s service to determine what he or she will receive as their DLA or Dislocation Allowance. This is the amount of military based money a service man or woman will have to spend on their relocation.

DLA is money that is separate from the mileage, per diem and other finances that are set aside for a move of station. You can ask for an advance to help you manage your expenses, but the actual amount you’ll get is based on your rank and how many dependents you have when you receive your relocation orders or PCS (Permanent Change of Station).

Arming Yourself for a Change of Military Station

There are certain steps you can take to ensure you are ready to transition to your next post:

• Know what the military will cover before you start your move by meeting with the Relocation, Transportation and Finance Offices of your division.
• Find out what restrictions there may be in getting an advance on your DLA, per diem and other things, should you need it.
• Confirm the various resources available to you should you need emergency funds during your move or go over budget.
• Make sure all the paperwork necessary to expedite reimbursement and more is in order.

Making the Most of Your New Marching Orders

No matter how many times you’ve been through a military move, do legwork as if it’s your first. Regulations are ever-changing which means new rules may apply to your current transfer.

Meet with the different offices in your organization and talk to Nilson Van & Storage about your move ASAP. Our team has years of experience relocating service men and women, so contact us to learn more about how you can make moving in the military as smooth as possible.