Military Moves: 10 Things to Make Your Move Better

• By: moving.biz Staff
• Date Posted: December 10, 2017
• Category: Moving Advice & Tips

Most military families quickly get used to relocating to a permanent change of station, which can be a challenging process. It's important to understand the regulations and plan accordingly to ensure that you can enjoy an efficient process. With enough prep work, you can avoid stress and problems that can often occur when moving homes.

1. Stop by the Personal Property Office

Contact your Personal Property Office (PPO) and set up an appointment. Take advantage of the materials that are offered by PPOs, which includes the "It's Your Move" pamphlet. The Defense Link website also offers electronic newsletters with news and tips that will prove to be useful.

2. Get Help From Your Sponser

You'll be assigned a sponsor to the new duty station and command who will help you move, especially if you're relocating overseas. They'll offer tips that include which furniture items to leave behind and they'll also update you on host-country considerations.

3. Move Everything Yourself

You can put more money in your pocket by moving everything yourself, which will allow you to pack everything exactly how you want it and earning extra cash since you avoid hiring a contractor.

4. Play an Active Role

You're ultimately responsible for the your move even if you have assistance with the process. Understand the regulations and make arrangements to ensure that everything goes according to plan from start to finish.

5. Estimate the Weight of Your Posessions

The maximum weight that you can move is pre-determined depending on your rank, which can cause you to pay more if you exceed the limit. Figure 1,000 pounds per room and add the additional weight of appliances or furniture pieces.

6. Determine What Items Need to Be Left Behind

Most people are permitted to pack anything that falls within their weight entitlement, which will allow you to avoid paying an additional cost. Some items like vessels can only be moved if you agree to pay part of the expense while other products may be prohibited due to carrier restrictions. You can view The Defense Transportations Regulations website to determine what you'll need to leave in storage.

7. Make Plans for Your Pets

Moving with your pets is not always an entitlement. The government will allow you to move a total of two cats or dogs in cases that weigh less than 100 pounds each.

8. Clean Up After Moving

Leave your former home in the best condition for the new residents by cleaning the property or hiring professionals to complete the task several days in advance to the moving day.

9. Make Copies of Your PCS Orders

Make adequate copies of the PCS orders, which includes appraisals of high-value items, insurance policies, and letters of authorization.

10. Purge Your Items

Remove items you no longer need to lighten the load of what you take with you during your move and to stay within your weight entitlement.