As you may have read, our family has lived in four different states in six short years. We have moved a total of six times. Here you'll find everything from "must know info" to a few simple tricks of the trade. I hope you learn something useful! :o)
Before You Move - Before I move, the first thing I do is get a folder. I use it to keep "to do" lists, lists of phone numbers and all of the necessary paperwork for the move. Before you go anywhere, you'll need to clear the house you're in. If you're on post, check with the housing office for the proper procedures. You may need to schedule a pre-inspection, hire a cleaning team and set up a final clearing date. When we're in quarters we *always* use a cleaning team to avoid the hassle of cleaning ourselves.
Finances- Don't forget to have your active duty family member visit his/her Finance Office well in advance. Ask what you are eligible for (DLA, TLE, Travel Pay, etc.). This money will be direct deposited into your account before you move to help with the costs. If you are DITY moving, please don't forget to fill out the appropriate forms for that as well!
Getting Ready - To get ready to move, you'll need to take care of your current house as mentioned above but there are other important things to do. Be sure to schedule your movers or moving truck well in advance to ensure that you get the dates you want. Arrange to have all utilities turned off and mail forwarded to your new (or temporary) address. Book lodging ahead of time so you have a place to stay when you arrive at your gaining station. Confirm your lodging reservations a few days in advance.
Documents/Household Goods- Take your documents *with you!* I don't care if you have to keep them on your lap...do *not* part with them. You'll need your marriage license, copies of orders, birth certificates, medical records, vet records, etc. These are things that you can *not* afford for the movers to lose. The last time we moved, our truck was lost for over a week. Nothing instills panic like not being able to locate your earthly possessions! If you don't have renters insurance, now would be a really good time to get it. The insurance is cheap and covers your goods while they are in transit.
Pets - Be sure your pets are taken care of and are ready to travel. Make sure that they are current on shots, that they have ID tags with a cell phone number if possible and that you take their records with you. You'll need to consider travel arrangments for them as well. If you fly during hot months, your pet cannot accompany you so you'll need to make temporary arrangements for them. If there are quarantines, you'll need to plan for that financially. You'll need to think about where your pet will stay while you're in a hotel or guest house and about finding a house that allows pets if you cannot live on post or choose not to live on post. *Please do not abandon your animal!!!* If you absolutely cannot take him or her, please find him a good home before PCSing!
On the Road - Make sure you get your vehicle safety inspected *before* you leave. You don't want to break down in the middle of a 18 hour trip! Use the Internet or AAA to get a detailed map of your route and stick to it. If you are DITY moving, don't forget to *weigh* the truck empty and full *without* the car trailer attached or you will not be reimbursed for your move!! Make sure your insurance cards and your vehicle registration are in the car at all times. You may need these papers to register your vehicle when you arrive at your new duty station.
The kiddos - If you're like us, you could be stuck in a car with your kiddos for 2 or 3 days at a time. Even the most precious little angel can get really aggrivating during a long ride...LOL! Think about what you can bring to entertain them. Colored pencils and coloring books, card games, magazines, comic books, travel games and the like are all good time killers. If you and your children don't share the same taste in music, a discman might be a really good investment!
Arrival - Ahh, you're finally there! Check in and relax...you deserve it...LOL! If you need help getting around or have any questions, the guesthouse staff can assist you. If you're staying off post, contact ACS for help. Be sure to call Transportation or Inbound Goods to give them the number where you can be reached when your shipment arrives. Good luck and enjoy your new home! :o)
