Advanced-level PCS Tips

Okay, so maybe it’s not your first rodeo, you’ve PCS’d a couple of times, and you may think that you know everything that you need to know. Well, the rule for PCS moves is to always expect the unexpected. And, as you know, the devil is in the details. We have created this list of potentially ‘forgotten’ chores – one just may make the difference during your next PCS move.

• Begin studying a perimeter around your new town. The map will help you visualize it when you arrive. Note the major roadways, shopping areas, and some of your favorite stores and restaurants. You can connect the names with the actual landmarks on an early house hunting trip. Also communicate with your incoming real estate agents regarding their recommendations.
• Reread your current and future leases (if applicable). It saves time and hassles if you reacquaint yourself with the details of move in and out procedures.
• It’s never too early to begin researching your potential travel plans, especially if the PCS is scheduled for the popular summer relocation period. Hotel rooms and plane tickets will become scarce (and more costly) the closer you get to your departure date. Moving around holidays can also put a squeeze on availability and costs.
• If you are house hunting in a particular school zone, be sure to check that there have not been any boundary changes. You can consult the school system’s website, and better yet, make a call to the school.
• At your children’s current school(s), talk with the administration regarding paperwork needs. You may need to complete release forms for test and grade scores. Make sure they have your forwarding address.
• When planning your trip, remember to include entertainment options for extended times in hotels and vehicles. Locate chargers, load up iPads with new games, and pack fun snacks.
• DO NOT FORGET to change your Amazon address, so you can plan ahead and have necessary items delivered to your new home.
• REMEMBER to cancel or update your subscription services – periodicals, food delivery, and one-a-month gift boxes.
• REMEMBER to return all your library books! And, as you start the packing and purging process, remember to return all borrowed items from friends and family. They will be glad to have their stuff back!
• Check our Pinterest and Facebook for tips and resources from other local military families. Those who have recently relocated will have the newest techniques for maintaining sanity during the process. Hint: Move.mil has an improved mobile site!
• Make a quick list of any identification that will expire near your time of departure – military IDs, driver’s licenses, and passports. Then make a plan to get them renewed prior to your move.
• Do not forget about your vehicle’s maintenance and documentation. Will you be registering in your new location or updating your address in the current system? This should avoid getting a ticket for outdated tags in your new location.
• Organize and schedule your pets travel and care plans early. Update vaccinations, prescriptions, and collect necessary paperwork from your veterinarian.
• Inspect your family’s prescription medications well before your departure date. Plan to leave with as much medication as you are allowed. This will relieve some of the stress of immediately having to find a new doctor and pharmacy upon your arrival.
• Transfer updated DEERS information.
• If you are a tenant, do yourself a favor and gather recommendations for a cleaning crew to hire for the final clean.
• Consider giving parting gifts to those folks who made your life great in your current location – friends, neighbors, babysitters, teachers, hair stylists, pet sitters, etc. Organize it now so you can enjoy your final visits.
• REDEEM any local gift cards now.
• Last but not least, consider planning one last gathering. You will regret not getting to see the people you meant to, one last time. And, you can use it as an opportunity to gift willing takers with items you can’t take with you – think frozen food, alcohol, cleaning supplies, etc. 

We hope that this list will be helpful in mitigating some of your PCS worries. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your upcoming PCS move, be sure to contact one of our Military Relocation Specialists. We are here to help!