A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is a common part of military life, but it can also be overwhelming. With careful planning and some tried-and-true hacks, you can make the process smoother and less stressful for your family. Here are practical tips to help you stay organized and execute your PCS move efficiently.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
Time is your best ally when preparing for a PCS move.
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Create a Timeline: As soon as you receive your orders, draft a timeline that outlines important dates, such as packing, transportation pickup, and departure.
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Make a PCS Binder: Organize essential documents like orders, housing paperwork, medical records, and school transcripts in a binder or digital folder for quick access.
2. Purge and Declutter
Moving is a perfect opportunity to streamline your belongings.
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Sort Through Items: Go room by room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.
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Follow the “One-Year Rule”: If you haven’t used something in the past year, consider letting it go.
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Host a Yard Sale: Turn unwanted items into extra cash before the move.
3. Master the Art of Packing
Packing can be daunting, but these tips will make it manageable:
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Label Everything: Use color-coded labels or tape for each room to simplify unpacking.
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Create an “Open First” Box: Include essentials like toiletries, cleaning supplies, a few dishes, and a change of clothes.
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Take Photos: Document the condition of your belongings, especially high-value items, in case you need to file a claim for damages.
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Use Vacuum-Seal Bags: Save space by compressing bulky items like clothes and bedding.
4. Leverage Military Resources
Take advantage of the support available to military families:
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Transportation Office (TO): Work with your base’s TO to schedule movers and shipments.
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Weight Allowance: Know your weight limits to avoid extra charges and consider shipping some items yourself if needed.
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Military OneSource: Access free moving guides, checklists, and support services.
5. Stay on Top of Finances
PCS moves can come with unexpected costs, so it’s essential to manage your budget:
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Track Reimbursements: Keep receipts for travel, lodging, and meals to submit for reimbursement.
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Understand Entitlements: Familiarize yourself with Dislocation Allowance (DLA), Per Diem, and other benefits.
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Set Aside an Emergency Fund: Prepare for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by the military.
6. Prepare Your Family and Pets
PCS moves affect everyone in the household, including pets:
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Involve Your Kids: Let them help with packing and talk about the new location to ease the transition.
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Research Schools: If you have children, look into schools near your new duty station.
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Plan for Pets: Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date, and research pet-friendly hotels and transportation.
7. Organize Your Travel
Whether you’re driving or flying, having a travel plan is crucial:
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Map Your Route: Plan stops for food, rest, and fuel along the way.
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Prepare a Travel Kit: Pack snacks, entertainment, important documents, and emergency supplies for the journey.
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Book Accommodations Early: Use military-friendly lodging options like IHG Army Hotels or Navy Lodges.
8. Stay Flexible and Positive
PCS moves rarely go perfectly, so maintaining flexibility is key:
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Expect Delays: Be prepared for potential setbacks, such as shipment delays or housing availability issues.
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Embrace the Adventure: Treat the move as an opportunity to explore a new location and meet new people.
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Lean on Your Community: Connect with other military families who can offer advice and support.
Final Thoughts
A PCS move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By planning ahead, using available resources, and staying organized, you can reduce stress and make the transition as smooth as possible. Remember, every move is a step in your family’s unique military journey, bringing new experiences and opportunities along the way.
Written By: HelpVet.net
Photo Credit: Canva
