Are you an active duty member who recently got a permanent change of station order? If so, you should know it means a move.
Military relocation means moving under specific order. In most cases, you move with your entire family with your home goods. But if it’s your first time, you might want to consider a few points.
Here’s a guide on what you should know about military relocation and how to work around it.
When Do You Get a PCS Order?
Military personnel usually distribute PCS orders every two to four years. As for the sequence, it varies every time, so you want to keep track of how long it takes.
There are instances when a permanent change of station order changes last minute. Other times, a service member can extend the order for a year or two more. Remember that the move isn’t final until you get a hard copy of the order.
There’s no exact time to receive them, but you want to prepare by lessening your load before moving season.
Where Do You Usually Move?
The place where you move depends on military needs. Service members can indicate their top stations but don’t really decide where to relocate.
Even so, if you have a reasonable request to pick a particular station or task, you can talk to your Monitor. This way, you can let them know what conditions you are under to try and get your preferred location. Note that it still doesn’t guarantee your transfer.
Military Move Options
There are two primary military relocation services available. You can work on your move with the help of a military-approved moving company or do it yourself. Here’s a look at how they work:
Military-Approved Moving Company
A transportation service provider or TSP is usually a government or military-provided moving company. When you work with them, you should first make a request on the official military moving portal or Move.mil.
You have a day or two to prepare before the professional movers visit your home. By then, they load your stuff into the truck and take them to a warehouse before dropping them off at your new location.
One of the perks of a military move with a TSP is that they do all the work for you with insurance. So, you can file a reimbursement claim if anything gets damaged or lost in transit.
Personally Procured Move
A personally procured move refers to a moving process you handle yourself. It means you’re responsible for the entire process and can get reimbursement for the same rate you pay professional movers.
Note your reimbursement rate varies on your rank, family size, and move distance. Although it requires more work on your end, it allows you to save more and give you flexibility.
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Relocation Packing Tips
When you get a permanent change of station order, you should be ready within a specific time frame. Consider the following packing tips:
- Declutter your spaces
- Document the condition of your belongings
- Take photos of your wires before wrapping
- Pack similar items together
- Put protective packaging on fragile items
- Save valuable papers
Learn About Military Relocation and How to Handle It
As an active service member, you will likely receive PCS orders every two or four years. And so, you have to work on military relocation for your family and belongings. Reach out to a military realtor today for your best options.
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