Welcome to the ultimate guide for military families embarking on a PCS move! Moving with the military can be a daunting task, filled with uncertainty and stress. However, with the right preparation and insights, your PCS move can be a smooth and even enjoyable journey. Whether you’re moving across the country or to a new base overseas, this guide is packed with essential tips and strategies to help you navigate the process with ease.
1. Preparation: The Foundation of a Successful PCS Move
The moment you receive your PCS orders, the countdown begins. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety, but the key to a stress-free move is preparation. Start by researching your new destination thoroughly.
Consider the best schools for your children, military-friendly communities, commute times, and local amenities. Utilize resources like Great Schools for school ratings, Google Maps for a lay of the land, and my unique neighborhood guides to assist you.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends in the area or your future unit for insights and advice.
Reach out to the unit you are going to and ask if they’ve assigned you a sponsor. Reach out to that sponsor and ask questions.
Additional Tip: Join Facebook groups or forums specific to your new base to get real-time advice and insights from other military families living in the area. Check out this free Facebook community for Camp Lejeune, MCAS New River, and MCAS Cherry Point: 🎖️PCSing: Camp Lejeune, MCAS New River, & MCAS Cherry Point! 🏠
2. Downsizing & Selling: Lighten Your Load for a Fresh Start
A PCS move is the perfect opportunity to declutter and simplify your life. Go through your belongings and sell or donate items you no longer need. This not only makes packing easier but also puts some extra cash in your pocket, which can be a great addition to your emergency fund.
Additional Tip: Consider selling larger items or furniture that may not fit or suit your new home to save on moving costs and space.
3. Financial Preparedness: Building an Emergency Fund
Unexpected expenses are a given during a PCS move. From last-minute travel costs to unforeseen housing expenses, having an emergency fund can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major headache. Start saving early and let the proceeds from downsizing contribute to this fund.
Additional Tip: Automate your savings by setting up a direct transfer to a savings account dedicated to your PCS move, ensuring you’re consistently building your fund.
4. Pet Planning: Ensuring a Smooth Transition for Furry Family Members
Moving with pets requires additional planning, especially if you’re traveling by plane. Consider the time of year and airline pet policies to avoid any issues. A bit of forethought can prevent pet-related predicaments and ensure a comfortable journey for your four-legged friends.
Additional Tip: Research pet relocation services that specialize in military moves to ensure your pets are well taken care of.
5. Budget Comparison: Know What to Expect Financially
Costs of living can vary significantly from one location to another. Conduct a budget comparison to understand the differences in expenses such as housing, groceries, and fuel. Utilize available resources, like our free budget comparison worksheet, to plan your finances effectively.
Additional Tip: Use cost of living calculators available online to get a detailed comparison of your current and future locations. If you’d like a free budget comparison worksheet, click here.
6. Document Organization: Keeping Vital Records Accessible
Ensure all important documents are easily accessible during your move. This includes birth certificates, marriage certificates, medical records, and more. These documents are crucial for a smooth transition, especially when it comes to securing housing and enrolling children in school.
Additional Tip: Consider digital backups stored securely in the cloud for an extra layer of protection.
7. To DITY or Not to DITY: Weighing Your Moving Options
Consider the pros and cons of a Personally Procured Move (PPM) versus a government-arranged move. A PPM can be an opportunity to see new sights and save money, but it requires more planning and effort. Evaluate your options carefully, considering factors like cost, convenience, entitlements, and your family’s needs.
Additional Tip: Calculate potential reimbursements for a DITY move using online calculators to see if the financial benefit outweighs the convenience of a government-arranged move.
8. Mark Your Territory: Designating a ‘Do Not Pack’ Zone
Avoid packing mishaps by designating a specific area for items you’ll need during the move or plan to sell. Communicate clearly with movers to ensure these items are left untouched. This simple step can prevent a lot of frustration and confusion.
Make sure to understand what can go into each shipment. Typically, there are three shipments:
- Household Goods (HHG): This is your full-service move. A government-approved mover, also known as a transportation service provider (TSP), takes the wheel here. They’ll pack up everything you own and get it to your new spot. It’s the whole nine yards.
- Unaccompanied Baggage (UB): Think of this as the express lane. It’s for when you need a few essentials sent over fast, ahead of the main haul. Perfect for bridging the gap until the rest of your stuff catches up.
- Non-Temporary Storage (NTS): This one’s for stashing your gear long-term. If there’s stuff you won’t need immediately or can’t take to your new post, it goes into NTS. It’ll sit tight back home or somewhere close until you’re ready to call it back into action. When you return and have established a new address, you can request retrieval and shipment of your stored belongings.
Additional Tip: Place a sign on the door as a reminder to movers and family members that items in this zone are not to be packed.
9. Essentials Pack: Preparing Your PCS Go-Bag
Pack a go-bag with essentials for the first few days at your new location. Include uniforms, toiletries, and comfort items for your children. This go-bag will be your lifeline during the transition, ensuring you have everything you need upon arrival.
Additional Tip: Each family member should have their own go-bag with personal essentials to keep everyone comfortable.
10. Document Everything: Protecting Your Belongings
Before the movers arrive, take the time to document your belongings. A quick video tour of your home and high-value items can provide invaluable proof in case of damage during the move.
Additional Tip: Make a detailed inventory list of high-value items and their condition for insurance purposes.
11. Invest in Quality Packing Supplies
If you opt for a DITY move, don’t skimp on packing materials. Quality boxes, tape, and padding can protect your belongings and save you from potential losses. Remember, the military reimburses for these expenses, so keep your receipts.
Additional Tip: Use bubble wrap or packing paper for fragile items instead of newspaper to prevent ink transfer.
12. Family Involvement: Making Packing a Team Effort
Get the whole family involved in the packing process. Turn it into a fun activity for the kids, helping them understand and cope with the move. Their involvement can also lighten the workload and make the process more enjoyable for everyone.
Additional Tip: Reward the family with a favorite meal or treat at the end of packing sessions to keep morale high.
13. Farewells: The Importance of Goodbyes
Saying goodbye to friends and familiar places is an essential part of the moving process. Organize a small gathering to bid farewell, providing closure and making room for new beginnings. Host a potluck dinner or a barbecue to say goodbye to neighbors and friends.
Additional Tip: Create a memory book or video with messages from friends and family to look back on in your new home.
Conclusion:
Every PCS move is a unique adventure, filled with challenges and opportunities. With the right mindset and preparation, you can navigate your relocation with confidence and ease. Remember, I’m here to assist with all your real estate needs in Eastern North Carolina, whether you’re buying, selling, or renting. Your mission is our mission.