Preparing for a military move can be an overwhelming task, but with proper planning and preparation, the process can be simplified. In this section, we’ll go over some key steps to take when preparing for your move.
One of the first things to consider when preparing for your move is your budget. Fortunately, the military provides a number of allowances to help offset the costs of moving. These allowances may include a dislocation allowance, a temporary lodging allowance, and a per diem allowance. It’s important to understand your entitlements and plan accordingly.
Once you have a budget in place, it’s time to start planning your move timeline. Ideally, you should start planning at least three months in advance of your move date. This will give you plenty of time to coordinate with the transportation office and any moving companies you may be working with.
When it comes to packing and moving your personal property, there are a number of things to keep in mind. First, be sure to declutter and get rid of any items you no longer need or want. This will help reduce the weight of your shipment and save you money on moving costs. Second, consider hiring a professional moving company to handle the packing and loading of your belongings. This can help reduce the stress of the move and ensure that your items are properly packed and protected during transit.
Another important step in preparing for your move is scheduling pest control and housing inspections. Many military housing communities require these inspections prior to move-out, so be sure to check with your housing office for specific requirements.
Finally, consider your transportation options. Depending on the distance of your move and the amount of personal property you’re transporting, you may want to consider using a privately owned vehicle, renting a truck, or hiring a professional moving company. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that makes the most sense for your situation.
By following these steps and utilizing the resources available to you, you can make your military move a smooth and stress-free experience.
Understanding Military Moves
Military moves can be a unique and complex process, which is why it’s important to understand the different types of moves and entitlements available to military families. In this section, we’ll cover the basics of military moves.
What are military moves?
Military moves, also known as Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves, are a common occurrence for military families. A PCS move is when a service member receives orders to relocate to a new duty station or base. These moves can be either CONUS (within the continental United States) or OCONUS (outside of the continental United States).
Types of military moves
There are several types of military moves, each with their own unique requirements and entitlements. Some of the most common types of moves include:
- PCS moves: These are the most common type of military move, where a service member and their family relocate to a new duty station.
- Temporary Duty (TDY) moves: These are short-term moves where a service member is assigned to a new duty station for a limited time.
- Personally Procured Moves (PPM): Also known as a “Do It Yourself” move, this option allows service members to move themselves and their belongings to a new duty station.
PCS entitlements
When it comes to PCS moves, there are several entitlements available to service members and their families. These entitlements may include:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH): This allowance helps cover the cost of housing at the new duty station.
- Dislocation Allowance (DLA): This allowance helps cover the cost of relocating to a new duty station.
- Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE): This allowance helps cover the cost of temporary lodging while waiting for permanent housing at the new duty station.
- Per Diem: This allowance helps cover the cost of meals and incidental expenses while traveling to the new duty station.
The role of the transportation office
The transportation office, also known as the Personal Property Shipping Office (PPSO), plays a crucial role in military moves. This office is responsible for coordinating the shipment of service members’ household goods (HHG) and ensuring that all entitlements are properly applied. It’s important to work closely with the transportation office throughout the moving process to ensure a smooth and successful move.
Preparing for Your Move
Preparing for a military move can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and preparation, the process can be made smoother and more manageable. In this section, we’ll go over some key steps to take when preparing for your move.
Planning your move timeline
One of the first things to consider when preparing for your move is your timeline. Ideally, you should start planning at least three months in advance of your move date. This will give you plenty of time to coordinate with the transportation office and any moving companies you may be working with. Be sure to also consider any time restrictions or limitations that may be imposed by your duty station or other factors.
Budget planning and military allowances
Another important consideration when preparing for your move is your budget. Fortunately, the military provides a number of allowances to help offset the costs of moving. These allowances may include a dislocation allowance, a temporary lodging allowance, and a per diem allowance. It’s important to understand your entitlements and plan accordingly to ensure that you have enough funds to cover all aspects of your move.
Tips for packing and moving personal property
When it comes to packing and moving your personal property, there are a number of things to keep in mind. First, be sure to declutter and get rid of any items you no longer need or want. This will help reduce the weight of your shipment and save you money on moving costs. Second, consider hiring a professional moving company to handle the packing and loading of your belongings. This can help reduce the stress of the move and ensure that your items are properly packed and protected during transit.
Pest control and housing inspections
Many military housing communities require pest control and housing inspections prior to move-out, so be sure to check with your housing office for specific requirements. These inspections can help identify any issues that may need to be addressed before you move out, which can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free move.
Transportation options
Finally, consider your transportation options. Depending on the distance of your move and the amount of personal property you’re transporting, you may want to consider using a privately owned vehicle, renting a truck, or hiring a professional moving company. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that makes the most sense for your situation.
By following these steps and utilizing the resources available to you, you can make your military move a smoother and more successful experience.
Moving Process
The moving process for military families can be complicated and stressful, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can also be manageable and successful. In this section, we’ll cover some important aspects of the moving process.
HHG move and weight allowance
One of the most important parts of a military move is the shipment of household goods (HHG). Service members are typically entitled to a certain weight allowance based on their rank and dependents. It’s important to work closely with the transportation office to ensure that you’re aware of your entitlements and that your shipment is properly weighed and documented.
Weight tickets and replacement cost
When shipping your HHG, it’s important to obtain weight tickets for both the empty and loaded truck. This will help ensure that you’re only charged for the weight of your belongings, and not the weight of the truck itself. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consider purchasing replacement cost coverage for your items. This can help protect you financially in the event that any of your belongings are lost or damaged during transit.
PPM move and partial PPM
Another option available to service members is a personally procured move (PPM), also known as a “Do It Yourself” move. This option allows service members to move themselves and their belongings to their new duty station. Additionally, partial PPMs are available, which allow service members to move some of their items themselves and have the rest shipped by a professional moving company.
Pro tips for a smoother move day
On the day of your move, it’s important to be as prepared as possible. Some pro tips to keep in mind include:
- Packing a “moving day” box with essentials like snacks, water, toiletries, and a change of clothes.
- Labeling all boxes and items clearly to make unpacking easier.
- Taking photos of your electronics and appliances before disassembling them, to make reassembly easier.
- Keeping important documents, like birth certificates and passports, with you rather than packing them with your HHG.
Temporary lodging and housing allowances
If you need temporary lodging while waiting for housing at your new duty station, you may be eligible for a temporary lodging allowance (TLA). This allowance can help cover the cost of temporary lodging, meals, and incidentals. It’s important to coordinate with the transportation office and your new duty station to ensure that you’re aware of your entitlements and that you’re properly reimbursed.
Personally procured moves
Finally, personally procured moves can be a great option for service members who prefer to handle their own moves. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these moves come with their own set of requirements and responsibilities. Be sure to review all regulations and requirements before embarking on a personally procured move.
By understanding the moving process and utilizing the resources available to you, you can make your military move a smoother and more successful experience.
International Moves
Moving overseas as a military family can be an exciting but daunting prospect. There are many unique challenges associated with OCONUS (outside of the continental United States) moves, including different regulations and requirements. In this section, we’ll cover some important aspects of international moves.
OCONUS moves and requirements
When moving overseas, there are different regulations and requirements that must be followed. For example, service members must have a valid passport and any necessary visas or permits. Additionally, there may be restrictions on what items can be shipped or brought with you. It’s important to work closely with the transportation office and your new duty station to ensure that you’re aware of all the requirements.
Moving overseas checklist
To help ensure a smoother international move, it’s important to have a checklist of tasks to complete before your departure. Some important items to include on your checklist might include:
- Obtaining necessary visas and permits
- Completing medical and dental exams
- Obtaining and updating passports and other important documents
- Obtaining pet permits and vaccinations
- Sorting and packing belongings to be shipped
Resources for military families moving internationally
There are many resources available to military families who are moving internationally. For example, the Military and Family Support Center (MFSC) offers resources and support for service members and their families during the relocation process. Additionally, the transportation office can provide guidance and assistance in navigating the regulations and requirements associated with an international move.
By utilizing available resources and staying organized and prepared, you can make your international move a smoother and less stressful experience.
Additional Resources and Support
When it comes to military moves, there are many resources and support systems available to help make the process as smooth as possible. In this section, we’ll discuss some of the additional resources and support available to military families.
Relocation Assistance Programs
Relocation assistance programs are designed to help service members and their families navigate the challenges of moving. These programs can provide a range of services, from financial counseling to help with job searches. The relocation assistance program at your new duty station can be a valuable resource in ensuring a successful move.
Military OneSource
Military OneSource is a free service provided by the Department of Defense that offers a variety of resources and support to military families. These services include confidential counseling, financial planning, and educational resources. Military OneSource can be a valuable tool for military families facing the challenges of a move.
Family Support Centers
Family support centers are located on military installations and provide a range of services to military families, including relocation assistance, financial counseling, and educational resources. These centers can be a great source of support and information for families during the moving process.
Voter Registration and Change of Address
It’s important to remember to update your voter registration and change of address when you move. The Federal Voting Assistance Program offers resources and assistance for service members and their families to ensure that they are able to exercise their right to vote, even when stationed away from their home state.
Overall, there are many resources and support systems available to military families during the moving process. By utilizing these resources, you can help ensure a successful and stress-free move.
Conclusion
Military moves can be stressful and overwhelming, but with the right resources and planning, they can also be a smooth and successful experience. In this guide, we have covered a range of important topics to help military families understand their options and navigate the moving process.
We have discussed the different types of military moves, including PCS and TDY, and the entitlements that come with them. We have also covered the role of the transportation office in coordinating moves and providing support.
In addition, we have offered tips and advice for preparing for a move, including budget planning, packing personal property, and dealing with pest control and housing inspections. We have also discussed the different transportation options available, including privately owned vehicles, rental trucks, and van lines.
For international moves, we have provided information on OCONUS moves, a moving overseas checklist, and resources available to military families.
Lastly, we have highlighted the importance of utilizing resources such as relocation assistance programs, Military OneSource, and family support centers, as well as taking advantage of services like voter registration and change of address.
By following the advice and utilizing the resources available, military families can reduce the stress of moving and have a successful and positive experience. Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and utilize the many resources available to make your next military move as smooth as possible.
