Blog > Avoid These Top 10 PCS Mistakes When Moving
Avoid These Top 10 PCS Mistakes When Moving
A military permanent change of station (PCS) can be overwhelming. It's filled with endless logistics and emotional ups and downs. The saying goes, "Home is where the military sends us." However, avoiding common mistakes can make your move smoother.
Moving is a challenge everyone faces at some point. It can be tricky, but it often leads to good things. Knowing the top 10 PCS mistakes and how to avoid them can reduce stress. This helps you succeed in your new duty station.
Key Takeaways
- Plan to avoid last-minute stress and rushing
- Research your new duty station to familiarize yourself with the area
- Declutter before packing to reduce unnecessary items
- Label boxes clearly to streamline the unpacking process
- Keep important documents organized and accessible
- Understand your PCS entitlements to maximize benefits
- Be mindful of pet quarantine laws and start the process early
Failing to Plan Ahead
Many military families underestimate the prep work needed for a smooth move. They think they can do everything at the last minute, leading to stress and mistakes. To avoid these issues, start planning early.
Underestimating the Planning Required
Planning a PCS move needs careful thought and organization. Make a detailed checklist for tasks before, during, and after the move. This includes telling your landlord, arranging utility changes, and booking movers or trucks. Always have a budget for surprises and make time for packing and cleaning.
Not Researching Your New Duty Station
Not researching your new duty station is a big mistake. Learn about the area's culture, climate, and living costs. This helps with decisions on housing and schools. Talk to the base's relocation program or other military families for advice.
"Failing to plan is planning to fail." - Benjamin Franklin
Delaying the School Transfer Process
If you have kids in school, start the transfer process early. Contact the new school district to learn about enrollment and deadlines. Collect your kids' school and health records. Early action ensures a smooth move for your kids and keeps their education on track.
| Planning Task | Time Before Move |
|---|---|
| Create a PCS checklist | 3-6 months |
| Research new duty station | 3-6 months |
| Initiate the school transfer process | 3-4 months |
| Schedule movers or rental truck | 2-3 months |
| Notify landlord and utility companies | 1-2 months |
Avoiding these common mistakes and planning early can make your move smoother. Remember, a successful PCS needs careful planning, research, and detail.
Overpacking and Mismanaging Belongings
It's easy to overpack and mismanage your stuff when preparing for a PCS move. These mistakes can cause a lot of stress and problems during the move. To avoid these issues, pack smart and efficiently.
Packing Unnecessary Items
Many people pack everything "just in case" when moving. But this often means moving too much stuff you don't need. Instead, pack only the essentials, unique items, and things that hold sentimental value. Remember, O'ahu has many shops, so you can buy what you need after arriving.
Not Decluttering Before Packing
Before packing, getting rid of things you don't use or want is vital. Packing things you don't need will only add clutter to your new home. Review your stuff and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. This will make packing easier and give you a fresh start in your new place.
Forgetting to Label Boxes
Labeling your boxes is crucial. Not doing so can cause confusion and frustration when unpacking. Use a permanent marker to label each box with what's inside and the room it goes in. This helps save time and effort when you get to your new home.
| Packing Material | Benefit | Reduces Breakage Rate By |
|---|---|---|
| Bubble Wrap | Versatile material that absorbs impacts | Up to 80% |
| Packing Paper | Provides cushioning and protection during transport | Ensures safe unpacking and storage |
| Small Boxes | Less likely to experience item breakage | 50% compared to large boxes |
| Double-Corrugated Boxes | Withstands pressure more effectively | Up to 70% compared to single-walled boxes |
To make your move smoother, avoid these common mistakes: Focus on packing only what you need, declutter first, and label your boxes well. This will reduce stress and help make your PCS move successful.
Neglecting Important Paperwork and Entitlements
Missing essential paperwork and entitlements during a PCS move is easy. These can make your move smoother and cheaper. Don't let these mistakes cause stress and problems.
Misunderstanding PCS Entitlements
Not understanding your PCS entitlements is a big mistake. Benefits like Dislocation Allowance and Temporary Lodging Expense/Allowance help with moving costs. Learn about your entitlements to fully utilize the military's support.
Not Keeping Important Documents Organized
Keeping your PCS paperwork in order is critical. Start a folder for all important documents, like new address information and moving contracts. This will save time and reduce stress during the move.
Also, keep track of utility requests and stop dates for both homes. This prevents billing issues and service cuts. Use a checklist to remember all moving paperwork:
- Orders and amendments
- Inventory sheets
- Receipts for moving expenses
- Lease or rental agreements
- School and medical records
Stay organized and on top of your PCS paperwork. This way, you're ready for any move challenges. Don't let paperwork or entitlement issues add stress to your move.
Top 10 PCS Mistakes to Avoid for a Smooth Transition
Getting ready for your PCS? Know the common mistakes that can make moving stressful. Avoid these to make your move smooth for you and your family.
Disregarding Pet Quarantine Laws
If you're moving to a place with strict pet rules, like Hawaii, act early. Start your pet's rabies shots and paperwork 120 days before moving. This avoids last-minute delays or surprises.
Starting the Packing Process Too Late
Packing too late can be chaotic and may damage your stuff. Start packing early with things you don't need immediately, then move on to the crucial items.
Using Inadequate Packing Materials
Good packing supplies protect your things during the move. Don't use flimsy boxes or thin paper. Instead, choose strong boxes, bubble wrap, and special boxes for fragile items.
| Packing Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sturdy boxes | Provide superior protection for your belongings during the move |
| Bubble wrap | Cushions and protects fragile items from impacts and vibrations |
| Specialty boxes | Explicitly designed for dishes, electronics, and other delicate items |
Failing to Pack an Essentials Box
An essentials box is critical for any PCS. It should have things you need right away, like:
- Toiletries
- A change of clothes
- Important documents
- Medications
This box makes finding what you need easy, avoiding the stress of searching through boxes.
Not Protecting Fragile Items Properly
Be careful with fragile items. To protect them:
- Wrap each item separately
- Use lots of padding, like bubble wrap or paper
- Double box delicate items for extra safety
Protecting your fragile items well can prevent the disappointment of broken items at your new home.
Avoid these mistakes and use quality packing materials for a smooth PCS. This reduces the stress of moving.
Conclusion
A smooth military move might seem challenging, but avoiding the top 10 PCS mistakes can make it successful. Start by researching your new duty station early. Also, begin the school transfer process early and understand the effort needed for a good move.
When packing, think about what you need. Declutter before packing and use suitable packing materials. Make sure fragile items are well-protected, and label your boxes clearly. Keeping important documents easy to find is critical, and knowing your PCS entitlements is essential, too.
PCSing can feel overwhelming, but it's also a new start. Remember to take care of your emotional health during this time. If you need help, contact professionals to make your move easier. You'll make your military move smooth and successful with the proper preparation and attitude.
FAQ
What are some common mistakes to avoid when PCSing?
Avoid these mistakes: not planning, overpacking, and mismanaging your stuff. Also, forget about essential papers and pet rules. Start packing too late, use harmful materials, and ignore an essentials box. And, don't protect fragile items well.
Why is it important to research your new duty station before moving?
It's critical to know your new duty station well. Learn about the culture, climate, and cost of living. This helps you prepare for housing, schools, and other parts of your move.
How should I prepare for my child's school transfer during a PCS?
Start the school transfer process early. Collect all needed documents, such as transcripts and health records. Research schools in your new area and check their enrollment rules and deadlines.
How can I avoid overpacking when preparing for a PCS move?
Focus on packing must-haves, unique items, and things that mean a lot to you. Declutter before packing, and remember that you can buy most things again at your new base. Only pack what you need.
What are some essential documents to keep organized during a PCS?
Keep important papers in a folder or binder. Include orders, moving contracts, and new address info. Also, keep rental or purchase papers, utility requests, and service stop dates handy. This makes moving easier.
How should I prepare for my pet's move during a PCS to Hawaii?
Due to Hawaii's strict pet laws, start prepping your pet 120 days early. Make sure your pet has all shots, especially rabies. Collect all needed papers and check the rules for your pet's type and size.
What are some essential packing materials to use during a PCS move?
Use good packing supplies for safety. Choose strong boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and special boxes for fragile items. Protect your things during the move with lots of padding and wrapping.