Military Move

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US Navy 110709-N-ZK021-011 Lt. Cmdr. Robert Scott is greeted by family during a homecoming ceremony at Naval Air Station Whidbey

On average, active-duty military personnel make permanent change of station (PCS) moves every two to four years. This may seem like a lot, but a little planning can lead to a successful transition. Check out these tips:

  1. The military usually pays for your household goods to be moved to another location. However, this is limited to an authorized weight limit. In other words, if your possessions exceed this limit, then you will have to pay for the extra items to be moved. Bring as many items on your move. When you get to your new home, you can decide whether you want to keep them, sell them, store them, or throw them away.

  2. Instead of just looking for houses online, visit the place you are thinking of moving to as well. If you can’t fully set up your housing before your move, store your things in a self-storage unit until you find the right place.

  3. A power of attorney is a legal, written permission for one person to act on behalf of another. You will need a power of attorney if you need to relocate on your own. It will allow you to schedule the move, open bank accounts, and receive household goods while your spouse is gone.

  4. When moving to another country, military families usually require storage options. For example, locations like Korea and Japan may not be able to accommodate any large furniture as the home spaces are usually tight and compact. Remember, always check for self-storage discounts when looking for a self-storage facility.

  5. Use online tools to find the right school. Usually, finding a school is at the top of a military family’s to-do list when moving to a new area.

  6. Streamline your packing as soon as possible. Group certain items together based on the type of item and the importance.

  7. Make the best of each experience. Open your mind to new things. You may move a lot, but think of it as an adventure to explore the world.

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