By James Marszalek, Owner & Designated Broker, Operation Red Dot
Summary:
- Review your PCS orders carefully and start building a personalized timeline right away.
- Apply early for on-base housing or research nearby off-base areas like Dupont and Lakewood.
- Use your PCS checklist to track key expenses like deposits, lodging, and travel.
- Review your BAH and budget to avoid surprise costs during the move.
- Prepare for in-processing at JBLM, including stops at Waller Hall and the Newcomers Office.
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) comes with a lot to think about, from where you’ll live to how much it’ll all cost. Whether you’re heading to Washington from across the country or just a few states away, planning ahead is key to a smoother transition.
This PCS checklist for JBLM will help you cover the essentials before you get there. It’s designed to keep you on track, stay within budget, and avoid last-minute headaches. If you're preparing for a military PCS, this is a great place to start.
1. Review and Understand Your PCS Orders
Once your PCS orders are in hand, take time to read through them carefully. Make sure you understand your reporting date, who’s authorized to move with you, and what entitlements are included. If anything is unclear, follow up with your chain of command sooner rather than later.
Then it’s time to build out a plan. You can use the Plan My Move tool to create a personalized checklist based on your timeline and needs. Include important steps like scheduling medical appointments, securing temporary lodging, and organizing your household goods shipment.
It’s also a good idea to reach out to the JBLM Reassignment Processing Center. They’ll walk you through the local process and help you prep for in-processing once you arrive.
2. Plan for Housing and Start Budgeting
Housing will likely be one of your biggest decisions during a PCS move. On-base options at JBLM are managed by the Housing Services Office, and availability depends on rank, family size, and occupancy levels. If you're interested in living on base, apply early and ask about the Rental Partnership Program (RPP), which offers reduced fees and lower deposits for off-base rentals approved through the program.
For those considering off-base living, popular areas like Dupont, Lakewood, and Puyallup offer a mix of rental and home-buying opportunities. Keep traffic along I-5 in mind when comparing commute times.
Plan for PCS Expenses
Now is also a good time to look at your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) so you can start estimating monthly costs. Add key expenses like rental deposits, travel costs, pet fees, and temporary lodging to your PCS checklist for JBLM.
Holding on to receipts and tracking any out-of-pocket spending will make it easier to file for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) or other reimbursements later. Staying ahead of your budget not only helps you avoid surprises, it also gives you more flexibility when it's time to make decisions about housing and travel.
Planning ahead can go a long way in helping families avoid common PCS mistakes, especially when it comes to budgeting and timing.
3. Coordinate Travel and Temporary Lodging
Once your housing plan is underway, it’s time to map out your travel to JBLM. Whether you’re driving or flying, organizing the trip early can save you stress later on.
If you’re driving, JBLM is accessible via Interstate 5. Keep in mind that traffic near Tacoma can be heavy, so plan your timing carefully and allow extra travel time, especially during peak hours.
If you’re flying, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) is the closest major airport, located about 40 minutes from base. From there, you can take a rental car, taxi, or base shuttle to JBLM.
Temporary lodging may be needed if your housing isn’t ready right away. Include it in your PCS move checklist and consider making reservations early. The Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) program may reimburse up to 10 days of lodging costs, so save all receipts and confirm eligibility through your finance office.
4. Know What to Expect When You Arrive at JBLM
Once you get to JBLM, your first stop will be Waller Hall, the main in-processing center. The Newcomers Office is open 24/7 and can help guide you through the process.
In-processing tasks typically include verifying your personnel records, attending base orientation, completing medical and dental check-ins, and registering any privately owned firearms if you plan to live on base. These steps are essential for getting officially settled, so make sure they're on your military PCS checklist.
You’ll also want to check in with your unit, schedule any remaining appointments, and get familiar with the base layout. Taking care of these tasks early helps you hit the ground running and eases your transition into the JBLM community.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Relocating to JBLM doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and a solid PCS checklist for JBLM, you can make the transition smoother for you and your family.
If you’re selling a home before your move, the team at Operation Red Dot is here to help. We specialize in working with military families and understand the PCS timeline inside and out.
Sell your home with us and take one more thing off your plate.
