Getting Started
-
Start early. Especially if you’re going OCONUS.
-
Talk to your Ombudsman or Relocation specialist. Ask for resources.
-
Ask sponsor for Welcome Letter and local resources available.
-
Talk to spouses who have lived at your new station. Ask questions. Join social media pages.
Service Member Preparation
-
Make copies of awards and qualifications that are being packed.
-
Ensure all uniform items needed to check-in at the next station are set aside before movers start packing.
-
If hand-carrying medical record, ensure it is in the do not pack section.
General Thoughts
-
PCS move is stressful for the whole family. Try to remember you’re a team, and make it an adventure to remember.
-
Consider collecting a memento to celebrate and remember each move (Christmas ornament, wall sign/decor, jewelry charm, etc.).
-
Have fun and make it a road trip.
-
Give yourself plenty of travel time.
-
Start living out of suitcases several days ahead of time so that there is enough time to get laundry done to pack everything clean.
-
Be flexible. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
-
Save boxes for expensive items like TVs.
-
Save your receipts for big-ticket items (TV, furniture, mattress, washer/dryer, etc).
Documentation
- If OCONUS move, ensure passports are up to date.
-
Make a folder or binder to hold all of your important PCS documents i.e. orders, school transcripts, medical records, move paperwork, weight tickets, etc. (Check out the PCS Binder page)
-
Have a checklist to ensure PCS items are getting completed. (PCS Checklist)
-
Document everyone you talk to; name/dates/time/employee ID. This will help if anything happens or you are given misinformation.
-
Inform medical office personnel of the move. Sign medical release forms.