Posting Season 2026 Checklist
Everything CAF families need before, during, and after a posting.
As Soon as You Get Your Posting Message
Do not wait for a confirmed move date. The search starts the moment your posting message lands.
- Register with BGRS and get your file number immediately
- Review your IPC for authorized benefits
- Note your preferred move date and report date
- Tell your unit admin you received your posting message
- Start researching housing at your gaining base
- Contact the MFRC for a newcomer welcome call
Housing Search: 3 to 4 Months Out
Decide on PMQ versus civilian rental early. In practice, smart families apply to both in parallel.
- Apply for PMQ through base Housing Services
- Browse civilian rentals and filter by pets, bedrooms, and distance
- Set a budget using your PLD and relocation allowances
- Contact at least 3 landlords quickly after finding a fit
- Ask for a military clause in any civilian lease
- Get the pet policy in writing before signing
Schools and Childcare: 2 to 3 Months Out
School registrations and daycare waitlists fill quickly in base communities.
- Request school records from your current school
- Contact the receiving school board early
- Apply for daycare or JK spots immediately
- Check whether your new MFRC offers childcare support
- Notify your current school in writing once dates are firm
Moving Your Pet
Pet moves become harder when left late. Vaccination records, transport, and vet transfers should be handled early.
- Book pet transport or confirm vehicle space
- Get vaccinations and a health certificate if needed
- Transfer vet records to a clinic near your new base
- Book flight cargo early if your pet is flying
- Check quarantine or border rules for international moves
- Update your pet microchip registration to the new address
30 Days Before Move
This is the admin sprint. Work through one item per day and keep receipts.
- Submit change-of-address with Canada Post
- Notify CRA, Service Canada, health card, and drivers licence programs
- Transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy near the new base
- Cancel or transfer local memberships
- Confirm mover booking through BGRS
- Document the condition of your current home
- Collect lease, deposit, and utility account paperwork
Moving Week
Prepare for the first 72 hours before the truck arrives.
- Keep posting, BGRS, and ID documents in your carry-on bag
- Photograph every room before handing over keys
- Confirm temporary living accommodation if keys are delayed
- Pack a dedicated pet travel bag
- Confirm school and childcare start dates
First Week at New Base
Your priority is getting administratively stable fast.
- Report to unit with posting paperwork
- Visit the MFRC for the newcomer package
- Register children at their new school
- Find a family doctor, dentist, and pharmacy near base
- Set up utilities and internet
- Update mailing address and military records
- Update vehicle registration and insurance if required
Frequently Asked Questions
When does CAF posting season start in 2026?
Posting messages typically arrive from February to April for summer moves. Families should begin housing searches as soon as a posting message arrives because civilian rentals near bases tighten quickly in spring.
What is BGRS and how does it help with housing?
BGRS manages CAF relocation benefits. Your BGRS file can cover moving costs, real estate fees, and temporary living allowances. Register as soon as you receive your posting message.
Can I bring my pet when posted?
Yes. BGRS can cover reasonable pet transportation costs. Start looking for pet-friendly rentals early because those units move fastest during posting season.
How early should I start looking for housing?
Ideally 3 to 6 months before your move date. The best civilian rentals near bases often move in April through July.