Video Duration: 3 minutes 44 seconds
Transcript Date: June 30, 2021
Introduction [00:00]
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When you reflect on your first military move or Permanent Change of Station, PCS, you'll likely note many lessons learned. But what if you could pre-learn many of those lessons from veteran military movers and save yourself the hassle? Here are 14 pro tips to make your first PCS a success.
You are responsible for loading, transporting, and unloading all of your household items. Which one should you choose? Let's look at a few factors that might help you decide.
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Tip 1, hand carry sheets and towels. Hand carry sheets, towels, pillows, blankets, and even a shower curtain for your temporary lodging. Often, these temporary facilities are not fully furnished. Having these items easily accessible will also prevent you from digging through countless boxes the first night in your new home.
Tip number 2, board your pets. On moving day, consider boarding your pets at a local vet or doggie day care so they don't get in the way or run off.
Tip 3, get connected. Join the social media pages of your new installation, as well as military spouse groups. They'll have great information about housing, neighborhoods, restaurants, medical providers, and more.
Tip number 4, hand carry cleaning supplies. When you first arrive in your new home, you may need cleaning supplies before the movers show up. Also, some movers refuse to transport these items due to their flammable nature.
Tip 5,personally transport important belongings. Don't leave the fate of irreplaceable or valuable items like baby books, marriage certificates, wedding albums, and official documents to movers. Also, consider hand carrying medical and shot records you might need to enroll children in school.
Tip number 6, track all items. Be sure every item or box that goes into the moving truck has a manifest sticker on it. These stickers ensure your items are tracked.
Tip number 7, get contact numbers. Keep contact numbers for your driver and moving company close at hand. They will have more up-to-date information on the status of your shipment than the military's transportation management office
Tip number 8, move items only once. In your new home, consider color coding each room so you can quickly direct the movers. This means less work for you when you're unpacking.
Tip number 9, get travel reservations. Plan your travel months in advance, and pre-book hotels that fit within the military's lodging allotment. This will help you avoid getting into debt and reduce the stress of trying to find a last minute hotel.
Tip number 10, keep payments flowing. Let your financial institutions know that you are moving so you don't have payments declined during or after your move. Consider automatic bill paying services so you don't miss paying any bills.
Tip number 11, keep kids entertained. Hand carry toys for the kids and dogs to help pass the time until your household goods arrive. Remember that you might be waiting a few weeks.
Tip number 12, maintain a household list. Keep an updated household list, including photos of barcodes and model numbers of high-value items, such as TVs and entertainment systems. If you have to submit a claim for a lost or damaged item, photos can supportyour case.
Tip number 13, separate your items. Assign a corner of your house, or, if possible, a room or a closet, for items you plan to hand carry. That way, something you need does not accidentally get packed with all of your other household goods.
Tip number 14, write it down. Save these tips for your next move. And add your own lessons learned each time. It will get easier and less stressful. For more information and helpful resources for your next military move, please visit usaa.com/militarymoving.
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