May 5, 2017, by Dixie Somers – A military relocation can be much more mentally strenuous than a civilian relocation is. Of course, massive amounts of preparation can help you gather your thoughts and your belongings together and will help ensure that all of your furniture and belongings are safely transferred to your new assignment. Make sure you are properly prepared by following these steps for a Permanent Change of Station, or PCS, move.
Check with the Installation’s Transportation Office
This should be the first step in your moving plan. Sometimes called the Personal Property Office, the Transportation Office will give you your relocation briefing to let you know the details of where and when you will be moving. The office staff will let you know what options you have when it comes to your move and what they will be able to do to help you.
Consider Movers versus a DIY Move
When it comes to finding out how the military will help you in your move, you will have to choose whether you want help with packing and moving. While a DIY move will let you pack some of your most treasured possessions yourself, the military will often pay for movers who will help you from start to finish. A moving company that specializes in military moves, such as Wheaton World Wide Moving, will pack anything you want them to, protect your furniture and belongings and even help you unpack at your new place.
Find New Housing
Speaking of your new place, you will have to determine if you will have on-base housing or will need to rent a place for you and your family off-base. Be sure to sign up for on-base housing early because there are often wait lists. Several Websites, as well as your transportation office, can help you find nearby rentals that are military-friendly.
Pack It Up
By now, you will need to know if you or your mover is doing the packing. Be sure to keep out the last-minute belongings that you will need, such as bedding, clothing and toiletries, in a no-pack room. Start packing these up in suitcases that you are sure will fit in your vehicle.
Keep a List
Whether or not you are the one doing the packing, keep a list of all your boxes and their contents, taking special note of boxes containing items that you will need to have unpacked first, such as towels and your computer. Keep the list organized by numbering the boxes and by putting asterisks next to your most important boxes.
A PCS move is certainly not without its stressors, but you can remain calm and assured that all will go well if you keep good lists, get things packed up early and check into new lodgings early. Once you are moved, be sure to start connecting with other military families who will be able to provide you with plenty of information about your new base assignment. Additionally, some base centers will be able to provide you with sponsors who can tell you more about your new location ahead of time.
AUTHOR BIO: This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write on business, finance, careers, and education. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.
