PCS Timeline

PCS is not always the phrase that a lot of people like to hear but it is very common in the military life.  From moving yourself to a new duty station to having the military move you it is very stressful. I use a check list which includes everything needed when going into a new home. So here is some of my helpful tips that help me get through the PCS Move.

THE LAST TWO WEEKS:

   Make sure that you call and have everything you want to be moved to your new location as in internet if that state takes that provider and even your cable company (find a change of address checklist here). Send post cards or even get your photos taken with a photographer for a moving photography session and send picture and a card with your new address to your family and friends.  Also make sure you change your address with the post office so that all your mail will be going to your new home of record. This will include, car payment invoices, health insurance, car insurance, banking etc.

BEFORE MOVERS COME IN:

  When the movers come there are a lot of people doing multiple things that are spread all around the house doing different chores and it can be high anxiety level because you are not even sure what to even do. They will be asking you different things like what to pack and what not to pack.  A couple days before the movers come I am making my moving checklist for the new home. 

For yourself and Spouse:                                               Kids:

Bedding                                                                             Baby Supplies (if Needed: Bottle ,diapers wipes Etc.)

Toilet paper                                                                        Bedding and Pack in Play

Toiletries                                                                             Pajamas

Shower Liner                                                                      Night Light

Towels                                                                                Favorite Toy

Pajamas                                                                              Entertainment (DVD Player, movies,                                                                                             coloring Etc. )

First Aid Kit

Kitchen/ Eat:                                                                       Practical Supplies:

Plastic Cups                                                              Basic Cleaning Supplies (military movers                                                                                     will NOT move)         

Plastic Silverware                                                      Trash bags

Plastic Plates                                                             Screwdrivers

Paper Towels                                                             Hammer

Snacks                                                                       Flashlight

Small Coffee Pot ( I have to have this )                     Notebook and Pens

Pet Food (bowls)

After, I get boxes and pack the things we need to take with us so the movers do not pack those items things. A military move can tell you a date that they will be there but that is not always set which is why good move in packing list to take with you .

Moving somewhere brand new is very stressful and exciting at the same time but just being organized and making list and planning ahead makes things so much easier process. You have to remember that you are not the only one doing this there is plenty of people doing the same thing you are doing and going through the same process. Always take a deep breath and say that you can do this, don’t ever give up it is that one spot that is very hard but once its all done you can breathe and just sit with your feet propped up and just enjoy the new journey you are about to start. 

?Morgan Powell