A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is a routine part of military life, but that doesn’t make it any less stressful. Packing up an entire household and relocating to a new duty station, often on short notice, takes plenty of planning and careful coordination.
For service members who own firearms or their families prepping for their PCS military movers, making sure those items are moved legally and securely can be challenging.
What a PCS Move Involves
PCS moves are official relocations that are required by the Department of Defense. They typically occur every two to four years, depending on a service member’s rank, specialty, and branch. Moves can be domestic or international and are usually handled in partnership with local transportation offices and approved military moving companies.
During a PCS, the military covers most relocation costs and sets specific rules on what can and cannot be transported. The household goods (HHG) weight limit is generally capped at 18,000 pounds, though this can vary slightly depending on circumstances. Firearms, while permitted, are subject to additional regulations.
Rules for Transporting Firearms
Firearms are allowed to be transported during a PCS move within the continental United States, provided all local, state, and federal laws are strictly followed.
Service members should be aware that laws can vary significantly from state to state, and compliance is ultimately their responsibility. Some states have firm restrictions, especially when it comes to magazine capacity, registration, or types of firearms.
Military moving companies are not permitted to transport ammunition, so all ammunition must be removed prior to the move. Firearms must also be made inoperable, which means removing bolts, firing pins, and trigger assemblies before movers will accept them for packing. Miss any step in the process, and you might experience delays or even outright denial of transport.
Maintaining a detailed inventory is highly recommended. Make sure to list every firearm clearly, including the make, model, caliber/gauge, and serial number. Keeping a copy of this list with you during the move helps prevent confusion or disputes if anything goes missing or needs to be declared.
Updated Policy on Gun Safes
In May 2022, the Department of Defense updated the Joint Travel Regulations to allow service members to ship empty gun safes during a PCS move. Gun safes weighing up to 500 pounds may now be shipped in addition to the standard HHG weight allowance.
The updated policy reflects a broader commitment to promoting safe firearm storage. The change was introduced in conjunction with several Department of Defense initiatives focused on child safety and mental health awareness. Military households, especially with kids, stand to benefit most from this rule.
Proper storage remains one of the most effective ways to prevent accidental discharge or unauthorized access. Consider storing your firearms in a safe for added protection and security.
Domestic and International Considerations
Shipping firearms to yourself is legal under federal law. According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, you may ship a firearm to your new address, addressed in your name but in the care of another person. If you’re doing a personally procured move or just want to keep your firearms out of movers’ hands, this approach makes the most sense.
International PCS moves have distinct challenges since each country has its own rules about importing firearms, and the process often involves extra paperwork and lead time.
For example, Germany and Japan require military members to register their weapons with local authorities, while traveling through Canada with firearms (such as when driving to or from Alaska) involves very specific import regulations.
Returning to the United States from overseas also requires documentation, and service members must declare any firearms or ammunition being brought back and complete paperwork at customs.
Omitting this step can cause delays or may even lead to possible confiscation. Military moving companies with experience in international relocation are often able to guide you through this process or help you find the right resources.
Planning To Move Firearms
Firearms add another layer of responsibility during a PCS, but they don’t have to complicate the move unnecessarily. Properly planning ahead, strictly following all disassembly guidelines, and working with military moving companies that understand PCS rules can make the process much smoother.
It’s also wise to connect with your local transportation or personal property office before your move begins. If you’re dealing with something specific, these teams can walk you through the details. No matter the type of firearm, proper handling and secure transportation should always be top priorities.
Make The Best Move With MG Moving Services
Firearms ownership comes with a distinct set of important responsibilities, especially during a PCS move. With the right preparation and awareness of current regulations, including the ability to transport gun safes beyond your standard weight limit, you can move with confidence and assurance that your firearms are handled safely and legally. With some smart planning and experienced professionals in your corner, military moves become far more simple.
At MG Moving Services, we understand the extra steps involved when firearms are part of your household move. As a company that’s built on supporting local and long-distance moves for military families, we take great pride in offering reliable, experienced help during major transitions. Our team of trained relocation consultants and caring customer service representatives are dedicated to reducing relocation stress and minimizing injury risk.
Long haul or local, we’ll help you plan smart and stay secure. Call 1-(800)-783-4897 or contact us online for a free quote.