How to Plan Your Unaccompanied Baggage Shipment for PCS Posted on August 16, 2023December 23, 2025 Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... Embarking on a new journey from Korea with Unaccompanied Baggage (UB) in tow? Elevate your PCS experience by crafting a well-rounded list encompassing essentials for comfort and practicality. Whether it’s bedding, dining, electronics, or those unexpected must-haves, our comprehensive guide ensures you’re prepared for every twist and turn of your transition. Need to Know Unaccompanied baggage shipments are only authorized for travel from outside the Continental United States (OCONUS) to OCONUS locations, not for travel within the Continental United States (CONUS). UB would have usually been included in the household goods shipment or carried with you when you travel. Size matters when it comes to shipping unaccompanied baggage (UB). You are not authorized to ship furniture or anything over 40 inches. UB is flown from your last duty station to the next expeditiously so that it is available to you upon arrival for interim housekeeping until the bulk of your Household Goods (HHG) arrives. UB generally includes pots, pans, and light household goods, including playpens, cribs, strollers, and other items used in the care of dependents. Refrigerators, washing machines, and other major appliances are not authorized for UB shipping. Neither are alcoholic beverages or personal firearms. Unlock Smooth Travel: Guide to Getting a Hi-Pass Creating an Effective UB List Backwards Planning In order to make a good UB list, you have to do some backwards planning and imagine yourself in an empty house. Think about the things that would make your situation a little more comfortable until your HHG arrives 2-4 months later. The goal is to avoid buying things you don’t need or already have. Additionally, being aware of the change in seasons is important. Consider including winter/summer clothing based on when and where you PCS (Permanent Change of Station) to, especially if you are taking leave. Trust me, you are going to want that coat if you leave balmy Korea in October and arrive at Fort Drum in December. Tips from Personal Experience Top 5 Things on my List Some people need to include basic cleaning supplies. But there are a lot of produts you cannot include in your shipments. If I have a good broom, I always bring one, but I don’t ship mops or toilet bowl brushes in UB. If you ask me what five things I am most grateful for are a full-length mirror, a table lamp, hangers, a TV, and a chair. It’s nice to have a bottle/can opener for extra credit. For example, here is the list of items I am shipping in unaccompanied baggage from Korea to Illinois: Bedding and Linens: Sheets Pillows and pillowcases Blankets or comforters Mattress pad/ inflatable mattress Two throws Curtains with rods Towels and Toiletries: Bath towels Hand towels Washcloths Hairdryer/ Curling/ Flat Iron Cooking and Dining Essentials: Plates, bowls, and utensils Glasses or cups Pots and pans Cooking utensils (spatula, stirring spoons, etc.) Cutting board and knives Can/ wine/ beer opener Coffee maker or kettle Basic Cleaning Supplies: Sponges/ Box of Magic Erasers Broom/ dustpan Furniture and Decor: Two folding chairs (one for each family member) Small table or side table Two table lamps Full-size mirror Two TV trays Electronics and Entertainment: TV w/ remote control Router Landline phone/ VOIP Portable Bluetooth speaker COAX cables/ power cords/ power strip Portable speaker Fire Stick/ HDMI Cable printer Extra Toiletries and Personal Hygiene Items: Additional toiletries and personal hygiene items Professional Gear: These are things you are authorized to send ahead if you have a profession. In my case, this is where I will ship all my extra camera gear. Basic Tools and Supplies: Screwdriver set Hammer Tape measure Assorted nails and screws kit First aid kit Miscellaneous: Hangers for clothes Laundry basket Toilet paper Two shower curtains Two bathroom mats Hiking boots/ poles Your military member will receive a briefing regarding UB shipments if authorized. Feel free to adjust this list as needed for your PCS move preparations. All our needs are different, but this is a great list to get you backward planning into the future. What’s on your list that’s not on mine? Let me know in the comments below. Like it? Pin it! MILITARY LIFE & TRAVEL leaving americaPCS Planning