Army Stop Movement

Provided by HQDA Deputy Chief of Staff G-1 and G-4Friday, May 29, 2020

What is it?

Army stop movement is a DOD-mandated order, from March 2020, that pauses the Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves for Soldiers, Civilians and Family members in an effort to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. This measure aims to protect U.S. personnel and preserve the operational readiness of the global force.

What are the current and past efforts of the Army?

The initial 60-day stop move order was extended through June 30, 2020 to protect the health of Soldiers, Civilians, and Family members.

The stop move occurs during the height of PCS season and impacts the moves of many Soldiers and their Families. The Army has implemented changes to PCS policies and initiatives for an easier and less stressful relocation to the next duty station. To mitigate the impact of the stop movement and to protect the health of the force, the Army has taken several measures to balance readiness:

Approval of exceptions to policy by appropriate authority to travel prior to June 30, 2020 are on a case-by-case basis - deemed mission essential, humanitarian reasons, or extreme hardship.
Soldiers on retirement and separation orders are not impacted by the stop move.
Soldiers with a report date after June 30, 2020 can request household goods (HHG) pickup 30 days prior to their departure date
Documentation supporting termination of rental lease agreement or government/privatized housing and home sale authorizes pick up of HHG shipment, and placement into storage at origin.
Required health screening for movers with written certification before beginning any work in a residence.
Adherence to the Center for Disease Control COVID-19 health protection protocols by moving crews while in a residence.

What continued efforts does the Army have planned?

The stop move is being reviewed every 15 days for adjustments as needed. After the stop move ends, the Army is in the process of reviewing other initiatives and policy changes, to improve and streamline the relocation process, to include:

Expanding incentives for Personally Procured Moves or “Do-It-Yourself” moves.
Simplifying the claims process to allow identification of any lost and/or damaged household goods up to 180 days after delivery and offering members the choice to repair or receive full repair costs.
Utilizing containerized/crated HHG shipments for moving within CONUS contingent upon set criteria and industry availability.

Why is this important to the Army?

People are the centerpiece of the Army. Taking care of Soldiers, Civilians, and Families is an enduring priority. The Army will continue to protect its people and ensure Army readiness.

Resources: