Jul 11, 2025
Receiving Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to or from Southern California can be a thrilling opportunity, but it also presents unique challenges. Unlike civilian moves, PCS relocations follow strict military protocols and timelines that require meticulous planning, while juggling family routines, school transfers, and job changes.
Planning ahead is essential for minimizing stress during your military move. From securing housing and researching schools to scheduling movers and updating documentation, each step demands attention weeks, and even sometimes months, before your actual moving date. Professional moving services that understand military regulations can significantly ease this transition for service members and their families.
Moving to Southern California’s military bases offer unique advantages with their year-round Mediterranean climate, diverse cultural opportunities, and proximity to beaches and mountains. However, they also present distinct challenges, including a higher cost of living, notorious traffic conditions, and competitive housing markets. Bases like Camp Pendleton, Naval Base San Diego, and March Air Reserve Base each have their own characteristics that new arrivals should understand before the moving trucks arrive.
A well-prepared PCS plan can transform a stressful experience into a smooth and efficient relocation. This guide will walk you through every step: before, during, and after your move, so you’re fully equipped for life on or near any of the Southern Californian bases.
A well-organized approach is essential for military families facing PCS orders to Southern California. Following this timeline will help ensure your move progresses smoothly while meeting all military requirements. The earlier you begin, the better your chances of securing the services, housing, and logistics you need, especially in high-demand regions like Southern California.
| Timeline | Key Actions |
| 8–12 Weeks Out | • Confirm PCS orders• Visit base TO• Research housing options |
| 4–8 Weeks Out | • Home inventory & declutter• Schedule pre-move survey• Research schools |
| 2–4 Weeks Out | • Confirm moving dates• Arrange vehicle shipping• Schedule utilities |
| 1–2 Weeks Out | • Final confirmation• Prepare first-day box• Clean & organize |
8–12 Weeks Before Moving Day
4–8 Weeks Before
2–4 Weeks Before
1–2 Weeks Before
Each base in Southern California offers unique benefits and challenges. Knowing what to expect can help you choose between on-base or off-base living and prepare for daily life in the region.
| Military Base | Location & Focus |
| Camp Pendleton | Oceanside: Marine Corps training, family support villages |
| Naval Base San Diego | Downtown San Diego: Pacific Fleet hub with 50+ ships |
| March Air Reserve Base | Riverside: Air Force Reserve operations, commuter-friendly |
| Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach | Seal Beach: Weapons storage, low-traffic family-focused installation |
Camp Pendleton
The West Coast’s largest expeditionary Marine Corps base covers 125,000 acres. It provides on-base housing, K-12 schools, child development centers, and outdoor recreational options.
Naval Base San Diego
With more than 20,000 personnel, this is the Navy’s primary Pacific Fleet homeport. You’ll find extensive services: Navy Exchange, commissaries, relocation help, and employment programs for spouses.
March Air Reserve Base
Primarily an Air Force Reserve base, March ARB offers housing support for reservists and active-duty personnel alike. It’s conveniently located for those commuting to Los Angeles or San Diego.
Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station
A smaller base ideal for quiet family life, offering essential services and access to greater Orange County amenities.
Transitioning to a new military base doesn’t end on moving day. Active community engagement and smart use of resources are essential to a smooth landing.
Connection Tips:
Local Living Tips:
Military relocations come with unique rules, such as weight limits, entitlements, and strict schedules. That’s why professional movers familiar with PCS processes can be invaluable.
| Resource / Organization | Purpose / Service |
| Military OneSource | PCS calculators, checklists, 24/7 guidance |
| Defense Personal Property System | Shipment tracking and claims process |
| USO San Diego | Transition services, social events, family support |
| YMCA Armed Services Program | Discounted childcare, fitness memberships |
| Oakley Relocation | Military PCS-specialized moving, packing, and secure storage. |
Also consider installing the MyBaseGuide app, which offers real-time updates on installation-specific events, maps, and amenities.
Even the most carefully planned move can face surprises such as housing delays, shipment changes, or vehicle logistics.
Be Prepared to:
Once you’ve arrived at your Southern California duty station, set aside one or two days to finalize critical paperwork.
Post-Arrival To-Dos
Create a 1-day admin checklist so you can settle in quickly and focus on enjoying your new surroundings.
If you’re moving from a Southern California base, reverse the checklist above and begin planning early. Due to local housing demand and traffic, schedule movers and transportation services well in advance, especially in spring and summer.
Tips for Departing Service Members:
With the right tools, resources, and timing, your PCS move to or from Southern California can be smooth and even exciting. From understanding local base life to leveraging professional help and tapping into military family networks, your relocation experience is what you make of it.
If you’re planning your PCS move, Oakley Relocation is here to help. Our veteran-friendly team understands the logistics, deadlines, and care that military moves demand. Request a free quote today and get started on your next chapter with peace of mind.
You can request a Personally Procured Move (PPM), which allows you to select your own moving company and manage the relocation yourself. You must get prior approval through your base’s Transportation Office, and reimbursement is typically based on government estimates, not your actual expenses.
Weight allowances vary by rank and dependent status. For example, an E-4 with dependents may be allowed up to 8,000 pounds, while an O-4 with dependents may receive up to 17,000 pounds. Going over your limit can result in significant out-of-pocket expenses.
No. The government does not cover the cost of transporting pets during a PCS. You must make and pay for pet travel arrangements separately, whether flying or driving. Some airlines offer military discounts for pet relocation, and pet-friendly lodging may be reimbursed under specific conditions.
You must file a claim through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) within 180 days of delivery. The moving company may offer full replacement value coverage if your items were shipped under government arrangements. Always take photos before packing and document high-value items.
Yes. The government allows for temporary storage (up to 90 days) and in some cases extended storage (up to 180 days or longer) if housing is not immediately available. Ensure the facility is military-approved and confirm coverage details with your Transportation Office.
If your PCS date changes, contact your TO and moving coordinator immediately. Adjustments can typically be made, but availability of moving trucks and storage may be limited in peak seasons. Keeping a flexible move-out date and having temporary lodging arranged is advisable.
In most cases, vehicle shipment is not covered for CONUS (within the continental U.S.) PCS moves. Exceptions apply only under hardship or special authorization. You are generally responsible for driving your privately owned vehicle (POV) or paying for shipment yourself.
Firearms can be moved via personally procured shipment but cannot be included in your household goods shipment unless declared and properly secured. Ammunition is never allowed in HHG shipments and must be transported separately by the owner in accordance with local and federal laws.
The military does not typically reimburse for cleaning services, but some commands may allow reimbursement in overseas moves or government housing transitions. If you plan to hire a cleaning company, confirm requirements with your housing office to avoid extra charges or penalties.
Common non-covered expenses include:
