10 Tips For a PCS Move

We all know how crazy PCSing can be. From packing, to moving, to unpacking and getting settled into a new area, it can be overwhelming. Over the years, we learn new tips and tricks for a PCS move that just make sense. We wanted to create a list of tips and tricks that you can do to help make life just a little bit easier during this time. 

1. Wait to Start Planning. We all want to jump the gun and start planning as soon as you hear that you could be PCSing. Once you have those hard orders in hand, then you can start planning. Save yourself the stress of planning until your move is for-sure. 

2. Start a diet.. for your house. As silly as it sounds, it's a crucial part of moving. You can accumulate a lot of stuff when you move from duty station to duty station. Move room by room and purge it. Start a donate, a throw away and a sell pile. Organize everything you plan to purge into those three piles. 

3. Binder Time. Break out a binder, page protectors, labels, dividers and fill it up! Binders are a great, easy way to keep track of your important documents. If you are PCSing OCONUS, you may have passports, birth certificates, health certificates, copy of your orders, transcripts for children, etc. 

4. Wait in Line. If you're planning on living on base, get yourself on the wait list for housing. If your children require child care, get them on the waitlist. These waitlists can sometime take what seems like forever, so by getting on them early, you increase your chance of having a home or child care sooner. 

5. Take Photos and Videos of Everything. Taking these photos and videos can be crucial in getting reimbursed for missing or damaged HHGs. Don't be afraid to take them from every angle. This way, if there is damage, you have physical proof and can make the claim. 

6. Zip Lock Bags. These bags are great for packing and moving because they can keep similar items together which makes it easier when it is time to unpack. For example, put all of the hardware from furniture into a zip lock bag and tape it onto the furniture. This way you don't have to search for it when it's time to put it back together. 

7. Keep High Value Items Together. Make sure that you are present when the movers list and record your household goods. Ensure that you tell them what the high value items are and you know which boxes they are packed in. 

8. Plan a Play Date. Whether you have children, pets, or both, plan a play date during the days that the movers will be at your home. Your main focus should be ensuring that your goods get packed safely. It can be hard to focus on this whenever you are worried about your children and your pets. Ask a friend or family member to keep them to make the day smoother for both you and them. 

9. Don't Pack Everything. For those with little ones, leave out a few toys to entertain them on the move. They will need some type of entertainment during the flight or the car ride, so save those toys and pack them in their suitcase. You will thank yourself later!

10. Stay Positive. Moving sucks, sometimes. Focus on the good things that are coming from this move. Maybe you're excited to get away from your current neighbors, maybe you have friends at the new duty station, maybe you will get a better home, or be closer to family. Regardless, look on the bright side because it will help you get through this move.