What’s New in the 2025 PCS Toolkit? Your Updated Guide to a Smoother Move

Written by Rick West Updated on June 18, 2025

Whether it’s your first PCS or your fifth, preparing for a military move is no small task. That’s why we’re excited to roll out the 2025 AHRN PCS Toolkit, a fully refreshed guide built to make your relocation easier, smarter, and more seamless than ever before.

Using your feedback from previous years, we’ve added new tools, timely updates, and fully interactive features designed for today’s military families. Here’s what’s new and improved in this year’s edition and why you’ll want to download it before your next set of orders arrives.

Now Supporting OCONUS Moves

Moving overseas? We’ve got you covered. For the first time, the PCS Toolkit includes a dedicated section for OCONUS/Overseas relocations.

From OHA and COLA to recent updates on pet transportation reimbursements (yes, up to $2,000!), we break down everything you need to know to successfully transition to life outside the continental U.S. with tips on cultural adaptation, paperwork, and vehicle shipment.

Expanded App Recommendations for Every PCS Phase

We’ve updated our popular app guide to include 15 of the most helpful tools for every stage of your PCS. New additions like:

  • NerdWallet for smarter budgeting
  • PlugShare for EV owners
  • iExit to find pet-friendly pit stops on the highway

Join returning favorites like TaskRabbit and Facebook Marketplace. Each app now comes with a visual icon and description, making it easier than ever to find the right tool at the right time.

New Pet PCS Documentation Checklist

We heard you: managing a move with pets can be overwhelming, especially when traveling across state lines or overseas. That’s why we added a clear, printable pet documentation checklist to keep you organized.

From rabies tests to carrier compliance forms, this handy new section ensures your furry family members have everything they need to arrive safely and legally at your next duty station.

Plan Smarter with the “Plan My PCS” Portal

The 2025 Toolkit now links directly to our interactive checklist portal, AHRN’s Plan My PCS, where you can track, customize, and even share your move checklist online.

Prefer pen and paper? No problem, printable versions are still included. But if you’re looking for digital convenience with real-time updates, the online version is a game changer.

Updated Reimbursement Rates for 2025

We’ve revised the PPM/DITY guidance and travel reimbursement rates to reflect 2025 figures, including:

These updates help you better estimate expenses and potentially save money on your next move.

Better Layouts, Better Experience

Little details make a big difference. The updated Toolkit includes:

  • Streamlined checklist formatting with “TO-DO / DONE / NOTES” columns
  • All links are now clickable, sending you to housing search tools, VA loan eligibility checks, and other helpful resources outside the Toolkit.
  • A refreshed layout that’s easier to read on mobile or desktop

Ready to PCS? Download the 2025 Toolkit Today

Whether you’re shipping out to Okinawa, settling into San Diego, or road-tripping across stateside orders, the new 2025 PCS Toolkit has everything you need to get organized, stay informed, and move with confidence.

Download the Toolkit Now
Try the Plan My PCS Online Tool

Still have questions or tips of your own? Join our PCS support community on Facebook or explore more military relocation advice at blog.ahrn.com.

Article written by

Rick West

Rick West is the President of AHRN. Rick served 32 years in the Navy and retired in 2013 as the 12th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON).

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