Most members first receive an initial assignment notification email with instructions from their personnel section. It’s important to follow those directions, complete the checklist, and ensure you’re gaining any required retainability.

If things don’t seem to be moving, don’t wait it out—reach out to your personnel section and loop in your supervisor or First Sergeant. Unless you’re on short-notice orders, if you’re within 30–60 days of your RNLTD and still don’t have hard-copy orders, that’s a good time to raise a flag. Scheduling TMO, breaking a lease, and locking in appointments often require hard-copy orders, so delays can quickly impact your timeline.

Overall, the Barksdale area is moderate cost of living compared to many CONUS bases. Housing is generally more affordable, but insurance, utilities, and older homes can affect monthly costs. Budgeting beyond just rent or mortgage is important here.
As of January 2026 average prices are:
Gas- <$2.70
Milk-$4.65
Electricity-$226 

Water/Trash-$105

Families live on base, in Bossier City, and in nearby parts of Shreveport and Haughton. Each area has trade-offs in commute time, schools, housing age, and neighborhood layout. There’s no “best” spot—just what fits your priorities. That being said, the Welcome Guide does provide the "off limits" and "caution areas"

That depends on family size, timeline, and housing status. Some members ship most items and live light initially; others store items short-term. Understanding weight limits, storage options, and delivery windows helps avoid surprises.

It depends on rank, family size, commute tolerance, and lifestyle. Base housing works great for some, but many families choose off-base for schools, yard space, or buying equity. I’ll walk you through both options honestly, not push one over the other.

Start early. Pet-related requirements often take longer than expected, especially during peak PCS season. Make sure vaccinations are current, obtain copies of vet records, and check airline or driving requirements well in advance.

If you’re renting or considering base housing, confirm pet policies, breed restrictions, deposits, and weight limits before committing—these vary widely. Also plan for temporary lodging that accepts pets in case housing timelines don’t line up. A little upfront planning can prevent last-minute scrambles or unexpected boarding costs.

The biggest key is preparation. Use a checklist to track high-value and hard-to-replace items before pack-out day. Take photos, note serial numbers, (you can use the qr code app in your welcome email) and separate anything you plan to move yourself.

TMO considers high-value items to be things like jewelry, firearms, collectibles, antiques, and any item that would be difficult to replace. PS5s/Xboxs and PCs are not considered High-value regardless of retial price. These must be declared in advance to receive additional documentation and protection. Everyday electronics, furniture, and household goods usually do not qualify unless they meet that value threshold—so don’t assume everything expensive is automatically covered.

To keep the process smooth:
• Be present on pack-out day if possible
• Clearly identify items you’re personally moving
• Watch how boxes are labeled
• Keep copies of the inventory and condition notes
• Do a careful delivery walkthrough before signing

A little organization up front saves time, frustration, and claims later. Treat the shipment like a controlled operation, not a last-minute scramble.

Always hand-carry important documents. This includes orders, amendments, IDs, passports, medical and dental records (if applicable), school records, pet paperwork, and anything you might need immediately upon arrival. Keeping critical documents with you prevents small issues from turning into big problems during in-processing. This includes servicable uniforms (duty and service dress). While TMO shipments are generally reliable, delays happen. I have seen far too many Airmen only arive with one unfiorm set or missing PT gear and then have to scramble to get more, arrive prepared.

BAH typically changes based on your official duty station and effective dates, not when you physically move. In most cases, your BAH will update when you in-process at your gaining unit and your personnel action is processed in the system.

Delays can happen, especially during peak PCS season, so it’s important to review your LES closely after arrival. If your BAH hasn’t updated within the first pay cycle, contact finance and your personnel section early to prevent back-pay issues. Planning a small buffer in your budget during the transition period can help cover any short-term gaps