PCS to the CSRA Checklist
Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Smoother Move
PCS Checklist
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) comes with a long to-do list. Whether you're arriving at Fort Gordon or leaving the CSRA, this checklist will help you stay organized before, during, and after your move.
Quick Facts
Start planning as soon as you receive your orders.
Notify utilities, banks, and insurance companies before you move.
Keep important documents with you—not in the moving truck.
Schedule movers early during peak PCS season.
Create a checklist to stay on schedule.
In This Guide
Active-duty military members
Military spouses
Guard and Reserve members
Families relocating to or from Fort Gordon
First-time PCS movers
Who This Guide Is For
Understanding School Districts
Public Schools
Private Schools
Charter & Magnet Schools
Choosing the Right School
Questions Every Parent Should Ask
1. Before You Receive Orders
Even before your official PCS orders arrive, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier.
Prepare Ahead
☐ Organize important documents.
☐ Review your current lease or mortgage.
☐ Begin researching your next duty station.
☐ Create a moving folder for receipts and paperwork.
☐ Start decluttering your home.
2. As Soon as You Receive Orders
Once your orders are in hand, it's time to start making arrangements.
Your Priority Tasks
☐ Contact your Transportation Office.
☐ Schedule your household goods shipment.
☐ Decide whether you'll drive or fly.
☐ Reserve temporary lodging if needed.
☐ Begin researching neighborhoods.
☐ Contact a local REALTOR® if buying or renting.
☐ Notify your landlord if applicable.
3. One Month Before Moving
☐ Submit change-of-address requests.
☐ Transfer medical and school records.
☐ Notify your bank and insurance providers.
☐ Schedule utility disconnections.
☐ Arrange pet transportation.
☐ Begin packing non-essential items.
4. One Week Before Moving
☐ Confirm movers.
☐ Confirm travel reservations.
☐ Prepare a travel bag with medications and important documents.
☐ Charge electronics.
☐ Separate valuables from household goods.
☐ Clean out the refrigerator.
5. Moving Day
☐ Walk through your home before the movers leave.
☐ Verify inventory sheets.
☐ Keep passports, IDs, orders, medications, and financial documents with you.
☐ Lock doors and windows before departing.
6. After You Arrive
☐ Inspect your household goods.
☐ Report any damage promptly.
☐ Connect utilities.
☐ Register vehicles if required.
☐ Update driver's license and voter registration if applicable.
☐ Locate grocery stores, pharmacies, and emergency services.
☐ Explore your new community.
The Arich Team Tip
Don't wait until you arrive to start learning about the area. Research neighborhoods, schools, commute times, and local amenities before moving day so you can settle in faster and feel at home sooner.
Common Mistake
Trying to remember everything without a checklist.
A PCS involves dozens of moving parts, and even experienced military families can overlook important tasks. A written checklist helps reduce stress and keeps everyone on the same page.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start planning my PCS?
As soon as you know a move is possible. Even before receiving orders, organizing documents and reducing clutter can save time later.
What should I keep with me during the move?
Keep your PCS orders, identification, passports, medications, financial documents, valuables, and any items you'll need immediately after arrival.
Should I research housing before I move?
Yes. Understanding neighborhoods, commute times, schools, and housing options before arriving makes the transition much easier.
Related Guides
Moving to Augusta: The Complete Guide
Utilities & New Resident Guide
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Download our PCS Checklist and keep it with you throughout your move to stay organized from start to finish.
Ready to Make Your PCS Easier?
Whether you're buying your first home, renting while you get settled, or planning your next investment, The Arich Team is here to help make your transition to the CSRA as smooth as possible.
📞 Ari Saladin: 808-594-7918
📞 Richard de los Santos: 386-333-4795
Serving Georgia & South Carolina | English • Español • Português
About the Authors
The Arich Team is a veteran-led, trilingual real estate team proudly serving the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). As retired military officers, Ari Saladin and Richard de los Santos understand the challenges of military relocation firsthand. Their mission is to help service members and their families navigate every step of the move with confidence—from finding the right neighborhood to settling into a new community.
The Arich Team
Licensed REALTORS®
Veteran-Led. Family-Focused. Helping Families Buy, Sell, Invest & Relocate with Confidence.
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📞 Richard: (386) 333-4795
📍 Serving Augusta, Evans, Grovetown, Martinez, Hephzibah, North Augusta, Aiken & the CSRA
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Proudly serving buyers, sellers, military families, and investors throughout Augusta, Evans, Grovetown, Martinez, Hephzibah, Harlem, North Augusta, Aiken, and the greater CSRA.
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