Planning a PCS Move to Hawaii

Military moves to Hawaii

Getting Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to Hawaii is exciting. But it also means planning an overseas military move, which has a few more steps than a regular state-to-state one.

Keep reading for answers to some of the most common questions about PCSing to the Aloha State. And stay organized with our military moving guide and printable PCS checklist. 

FAQs about Hawaii PCS moves

Is Hawaii considered OCONUS or CONUS?

The Department of Defense considers Hawaii outside the contiguous United States (OCONUS), along with Alaska, since neither is bordered by other U.S. states.

Can I do a PPM?

Maybe. Many branches will allow a PPM to Hawaii for qualified service members. Check with your Transportation Management Office (TMO) or Transportation Office (TO) to see what’s allowed for your PCS move.

What allowances will I get when PCSing to Hawaii?

Eligible service members who aren't provided government housing in Hawaii may receive Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). The rate depends on your pay grade, dependency status and assigned duty location.

Hawaii has location-specific BAH rates. Ask your TMO or TO for specific details about your situation.

When should I apply for housing on the Islands?

If you plan to live on base, start the application process when you receive PCS orders. If on-base housing isn’t available, you’ll need a plan for lodging while you wait. Possible options for temporary living are military-owned rentals, hotels or short-term leases. 

If you’d rather immerse yourself in Island culture, living in an off-base apartment or house is also an option. Finding a place to live in Hawaii can be challenging because of high costs and limited inventory. Start looking as soon as you can for the best place to call “hale” (pronounced ha-lay), the Hawaiian word for home.

How many travel days will I get for an OCONUS move?

Each military branch may have different PCS procedures for CONUS and OCONUS moves, so it's important to coordinate with your TMO or TO before making travel arrangements. They can provide your reporting date, duty station, allowed travel time and any other special instructions. 

Be sure to check if you’re eligible for leave before the move. Some branches allow service members to vacation with their families and arrange housing or school enrollment.

Can movers ship my household goods to Hawaii, and how long will it take?

When you’re authorized for a PPM, using an experienced military moving service like U-Pack® can be the difference between a stressful situation and a relaxing experience. 

U-Pack handles military PCS moves to Hawaii with our ReloCube moving containers. And transit time is only 9-16 business days — quicker than most full-service moving companies — so your belongings will arrive in paradise in no time! 

Keep in mind that transporting pets, plants or vehicles to the Islands will require extra steps. Check out this post about moving to Hawaii for more details.

Request your Hawaii PPM quote with U-Pack 

Request your free U-Pack quote by calling 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. You can also request an estimate online and provide an email address so we can get back to you.

Enter or mention the code DITY10 for an extra $100 off active-duty military moves. And don’t forget to request weight tickets if you need them for reimbursement! 

Thank you for your service, and please let us know if you have questions!