Your Reverse PCS: Leaving Germany
Whether you are heading to your next assignment or retiring, leaving Germany requires just as much planning as arriving. This guide covers the out-processing steps, timeline, and practical matters you need to handle before departing the KMC.
6-8 Weeks Before Departure
- Notify Your Landlord — German leases typically require 3 months' notice. However, SOFA personnel can terminate with 30 days' notice upon presenting PCS orders. Notify your landlord in writing (brief letter stating your PCS date, referencing the SOFA clause in your lease).
- Schedule TMO (Transportation Management Office) — Contact TMO to schedule HHG pack-out and UAB shipment dates. During PCS season (May-August), TMO is extremely busy. Schedule as early as possible.
- Vehicle Shipment — If shipping your POV back, schedule through VPC (Vehicle Processing Center) at the Kaiserslautern Transportation Motor Pool. Your car must be clean, free of personal items, and pass inspection.
- Begin Out-Processing Checklist — Your orderly room will provide the out-processing checklist with required sign-offs from Finance, Housing, Medical, Dental, Legal, and other offices.
4-6 Weeks Before Departure
- Housing Pre-Inspection — Schedule a pre-inspection of your rental with the Housing Office and your landlord. They will note any damage or cleaning requirements. This gives you time to make repairs or arrange professional cleaning.
- Cancel German Contracts — Internet, phone, electricity (if in your name), and any subscriptions. German contracts often require written cancellation (Kuendigung) with specific notice periods. Send cancellations by registered mail (Einschreiben) to have proof of delivery.
- School Out-Processing — Notify DoDEA schools. Request final transcripts, withdrawal forms, and records transfer to your child's next school.
- Medical Records — Request copies of all medical and dental records for every family member. Schedule any final appointments or prescription refills.
- VAT and Ration Cards — Return ration cards and settle any outstanding VAT form obligations.
2-4 Weeks Before Departure
- HHG Pack-Out — TMO packers arrive on your scheduled dates. Typically 2-3 days for packing, 1 day for loading. Separate UAB items clearly. Be present during packing — document everything with photos for potential claims.
- Professional Cleaning — German landlords expect the rental to be returned in the same condition as received. Many families hire professional cleaning services (Move-out Reinigung). The Housing Office can recommend approved cleaners. Budget 200-500 EUR depending on the size of your home.
- Return Kitchen/Fixtures — If you installed a kitchen, light fixtures, or made any modifications, check your lease for whether you must restore the apartment to its original condition or can leave improvements for the next tenant.
- Close German Bank Account — After all final debits have cleared (last utility bills, Nebenkosten settlement), close your German account.
Final Week
- Final Housing Inspection — Walk through with your landlord and the Housing Office representative. Both parties sign the inspection report. Get your security deposit (Kaution) return confirmed in writing.
- Turn In USAREUR License and Plates — Vehicle Registration Office (Building 2135). Cancel your USAREUR vehicle insurance.
- Final Out-Processing Appointments — Complete all remaining checklist items.
- Forward Mail — Set up mail forwarding from your APO address to your next duty station or home address.
- Final Utility Meter Readings — Record and photograph final readings for electric, gas, and water meters. Provide to your landlord and utility companies.
Financial Considerations
- Nebenkosten Settlement — Your landlord will send a final Nebenkosten accounting (Nebenkostenabrechnung) after you leave, usually within 6-12 months. This settles the difference between your monthly prepayments and actual costs. Leave a forwarding address or German bank account open for this.
- Security Deposit Return — By German law, landlords can hold the Kaution for up to 6 months after move-out to cover potential claims. Ensure you have a way to receive the refund (German bank transfer).
- Final TLA — You may be authorized TLA for your last days if you have turned in your housing before your departure date.
Emotional Preparation
Leaving Germany is harder than most families expect. You have built friendships, discovered a second home, and experienced things that will shape your family forever. It is normal to feel conflicting emotions — excitement about the next chapter mixed with sadness about leaving.
- Take a final trip to your favorite places.
- Host a goodbye gathering for your German neighbors and friends.
- Create a photo album or journal of your Germany memories.
- Exchange contact information — the friendships you made here last a lifetime.
A well-planned departure makes the transition smoother for everyone. Start early, follow the checklist, and take time to say a proper goodbye to this wonderful chapter of your military journey. Auf Wiedersehen — until we meet again.