Moving Mistakes to Avoid During Your PCS Relocation
If you are an active-duty military staff and you have to make a permanent change of station for your first time, it’s hard to know what to expect. Considering the short notice that one gets; from six days to six months, you may not have enough time to prepare for your last minute move. That is why PCS relocations are full of I-wish-I-had-known moments. Thankfully, you can pick up lessons from the mistakes others make and have a smooth transition.
1. Not knowing your limits
During PCS relocation, the military usually pays for household goods to be transported to a new station up to a specific weight. The move is typically performed by a third-party long distance mover contracted by the government. In case the shipment is more than the allocated weight, you have to pay to carry the extra pounds. There are two sides to this; first, try your best not to exceed the permitted weight and secondly, make sure you fill up the allowed weight. Carry as many items as you can within your limit because you can decide to keep some and sell others. Additionally, as The Misis Chronicles mentions, now is a good time to declutter, so you can move with less stuff!
2. Failing to keep proper records
Save all your paperwork and receipts if you want to get reimbursed for what you are owed. Remember that some expenses that are due to be refunded are tax deductible, so this will save you a lot of cash. It’s good to have a backup for all your hardcopy records to ensure you don’t have to recreate history from scratch.
3. Not making housing plans
Your housing choices in your next location include renting a house, living on base or buying a home. You may have to start by searching online, but make sure you visit the place where you are moving. If you do not manage to get a house before relocating, you can consider renting a self-storage unit to keep your goods before settling for a house. While at it, avoid buying a house too fast. If you do not like the idea of staying on a military base, consider renting a place for at least six months. That way, you will have adequate time to learn the area well and settle for an appropriate house.
4. Disregarding streamlined packing
Start packing your things the moment you receive the notice for the permanent change of station. Group your items depending on their delicacy and urgency of use when you arrive. You can label a few boxes “open first” so that you identify the things you have to use immediately after you arrive. They include breakfast-related items like spoons, napkins, utensils, plates, and cooking utensils. Organize small items like toys in zipped bags. When you pack your things correctly, you will have an easy time settling into your new place.
5. Forgetting to get a power of attorney
If you have been deployed and you want your spouse to help you move, you will require a power of attorney. It is a legal document that is written to grant permission for an individual to act on behalf of another. Getting a power of attorney will enable your spouse to plan the move, open a bank account, ship, and receive the items while you are away.