12 Tips for an Easier PCS

We've been there. You've gotten the curtains hung and finally made those friends you can't imagine leaving. So naturally, it's PCS time, right? Although we can't help you pack up your village, as we all wish we could, we hope that these tips we've gathered throughout the years can help make your PCS a little smoother. 

1. Ditch the clutter. You know that box of stuff you didn't get around to opening when you moved last time? Yeah, that one. It's sitting in the attic. Give it to the thrift store! Anything else that hasn't been used for the last 3-4 years, give it to the thrift store! No one wants to get stuck with a charge for going over the weight limit!

2. Set aside what you can't live without. You may be without your stuff for a month or two, so prepare yourself and make sure you can live without what is being packed up for a little while. Set this stuff aside in a locked room or in your car while the movers are packing everything up to ensure that it will not get packed. Keep in mind that overseas moves typically take much longer to move your stuff. Examples of items that may be a good idea to pack: a couple pots and pans, some cooking utensils, bed sheets, towels. 

3. Keep all important papers organized in a binder. Travel itineraries, leave paperwork, official orders, medical records, and anything else that you may need before and after your PCS should be accessible and ready whenever you need it! Keep this binder handy at all times. If you're flying to your next duty station, keep it in your carry on, not your checked baggage. If driving, keep it in the seat pocket. 

4. Prepare yourself financially. Moving can get expensive. A good rule of thumb is to save as much as you think you will need, and then double it. Better to be safe and have enough to cover whatever mishap may come up!

5. Take pictures before the movers come. Don't remember that scratch on your coffee table? Movers claiming that the leg on your antique chair was broken already? Have proof of the condition they were in to make a claim on them. 

6. Throw your trash away before the movers come. If you think I'm kidding, I'm not. There have been horror stories of moving companies packing up everything... and we mean... everything. 

7. Find a sitter for your kids while the movers are there. The day is going to be stressful, so if possible, have someone help out to ease your mind.

8. Book your hotel ahead of time. If you know the exact date you'll be arriving and your home that The PCS Pro Team has helped you find isn't ready to move into yet, book your hotel! Even if you don't know the exact date but know an estimate, most hotels will let you change the date around, so booking ahead is still possible.

9. Make a plan for your pets. Find out the restrictions, if any, for your next duty station. Get their rabies vaccines ahead of time, prior to three weeks before moving if going overseas. Find out if the airline allows them to be in cargo or if you can keep them in cabin with you. Prepare financially for your animals, too!

10. Ship your car. If moving overseas, or from overseas, you may want to ship your vehicle. Ensuring it is in proper condition, clean, and has very little gas in the tank will help you prepare for your vehicle to be shipped. 

11. Hire The PCS Pro Team. Whether you are needing to sell your current home or want to ensure you move into the perfect home at your next duty station, we can help! I mean, we are the PCS Pros for a reason! With us, your home buying or selling process will go as smooth as possible.

12. Enjoy it. We understand that moving every few years can be challenging. But don't forget to enjoy the ride! The people you get to meet and the places you get to see are going to give you a lifetime of memories, so soak them up while they're happening. 

If there is ever a way The PCS Pro Team can help you during your PCS, don't hesitate to reach out to us! We're never too busy to answer you or your referral's questions!