PCSing to Maxwell AFB: A Complete Guide to Your PCS Move

A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can be a major life event for military families. Understanding the entire process is key to a successful move.

 

Understanding PCS Moves: CONUS vs. OCONUS

When planning a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), identifying whether it's a CONUS (within the continental U.S.) or an OCONUS (overseas) move is crucial due to distinct requirements. Both move types require detailed organization and preparation, including sorting belongings and arranging transportation. However, OCONUS moves add layers such as obtaining necessary travel documents like passports and visas, understanding customs regulations, ensuring medical clearances and vaccinations, and adapting to new cultural and language differences. Additionally, overseas relocations involve navigating different schooling options for children, finding suitable housing, coordinating international shipping, and understanding employment restrictions for military spouses. Proper planning and utilizing military resources can significantly ease the transition.

Choosing Your PCS Move Strategy: Self-Move Options

For those relocating within the continental United States (CONUS), you have the option to either use military-contracted movers or manage the move yourself through a Personally Procured Move (PPM), commonly known as "Do It Yourself" (DITY) move. Opting for a PPM allows you to handle your relocation and potentially receive reimbursement for the moving costs. Additionally, a "partial DITY" lets you move some of your household goods independently while using contracted services for the rest. This method involves thorough planning, from securing approvals and gathering packing materials to updating insurance and keeping meticulous records for reimbursement purposes.

Optimizing Organization for Your PCS Move

Create a PCS Binder

Organizing all critical documents in one place is crucial for a smooth PCS move. This binder should include printed checklists, orders, travel documents, medical records, housing info, and financial documents. Including birth and marriage certificates, as well as custody documents, ensures you have everything needed for any situation during the move.

Set Your Budget

Although many moving expenses are covered by the military, it’s essential to prepare for additional costs. These can include home maintenance, extra vehicle shipping, and temporary lodging. Setting a detailed budget helps manage these expenses effectively. For additional budgeting tips and to understand how to balance financial needs with life priorities during a PCS move, consider resources like the guide "Bloom Where PCS Plants You."

Declutter and Organize

Before the move, declutter your home to stay within the weight allowance for household goods. Start early, assess each item's necessity, and consider donating, selling, or disposing of items you no longer need. This not only simplifies packing but also reduces moving costs. Remember to involve the whole family in the decluttering process to make it manageable and inclusive.

Optimized Packing and Moving Tips for Your PCS Move

Strategic Packing Approach

Pack your beds and key furniture last at your current residence to maximize their use. When you arrive at your new home, set up these essentials first to ensure comfort, especially for families with children.

Essentials First

Prepare an "unpack first" box filled with critical items like bedding, towels, and kitchen essentials to make the initial days at your new location easier.

Ensuring Pet Safety

Securely confine pets during the move to prevent any stress or accidents. Consider having them looked after outside the home if possible.

Appreciating Movers

Provide refreshments and consider a meal for the moving crew. Tipping is appreciated if it’s customary in your region.

Stay Positive

Embrace the unpredictability of moving with a good attitude, ready to adapt to new challenges.

Home Sale or Rental Decision

Evaluate whether selling or renting your home is more feasible based on your financial situation, market trends, and future plans. Consider listing your home for sale or rent to reach families looking to move into the area. I have an agent network of over 18,000 agents nationwide, so if you need an agent in your area to assist you, reach out and I'll be glad to connect you.

Researching Your New Military Base

Before relocating, it's essential to familiarize yourself with your new base and surrounding area. Explore the installation’s official website and social media for insights into local schools, amenities, and community life. Online forums like Military Town Advisor offer reviews and tips from military families who have lived in the area, providing a candid perspective. For those moving overseas, you'll be assigned a sponsor who can provide tailored, locale-specific guidance. Utilize base information pages and explore service-specific blogs to gather more detailed insights and activities for your family.

Conclusion

A PCS move requires careful planning and organization, but understanding the process and knowing what to expect can ease the transition for you and your family. With the right preparation, your move can be a stepping stone to new adventures in your military career.