Minimizing Stress During PCS Move Time

Oh dreaded PCS moves, how all wives loathe you. Just the computer application on move.mil, changed from SmartWeb, is enough to make you want to throw your computer through the window…especially if you have a Mac. Alas with a little planning and resource abuse, you can make PCS moves a less pain-in-the-yah experience.

Start Packing and Purging Early

Pack and purge as much as you can ahead of time. Have all of your seasonal clothes that you won’t be using in boxes, clearly labeled. I like to use Mabels Labels organizing system, as the labels are bright, pretty, and can’t be missed by even the most careless of packers. Starting months in advance might seem silly, but it will save you so much time and stress its unbelievable.

Use Resources on Base

The Navy has the Fleet and Family Service Center (FFSC) that provides Sailors and their families with loads of information. They print out a booklet of your next duty station and go through the ABC’s of moving without using military-speak AKA acronyms that nobody’s ever heard of. They will go as slow or as fast as you need them to go. It is also important to communicate with Personal Property and your point of contact there. Make this person your best friend. They are there to help, and will be more willing to help if you listen to what they have to say. Their job is to move people, and they will give you step by step instructions on what to do. Most importantly, they advocate that this is YOUR MOVE. If you want it done perfect, you need to be actively involved.

Budget Expected Allowances

Some people are lucky and can make money off of a move, but it is very tedious to do so, and can be more stressful if you arent prepared. Know what your moving allowances will be. These can include Temporary Lodging Allowances (TLA), Advanced BAH, Move In Housing Assistance (MIHA) for overseas moves, and more. If you plan on doing a Do It Yourself (DITY) Move, then you should talk to your Personal Property contact and ask what the process is.

Extra Steps for Moving Overseas

The first and most important thing to do is send your Unaccompanied Baggage (UB) Shipment as soon as you can! This shipment should be essentials that you need to survive once you get to your overseas base. Include items like pots and pans, plates, utensils, can opener, seasonal clothes, and toys for the kids. Send this as soon as you get your orders and it will be waiting for you when you get to your new home, otherwise you will have to wait an average of two months for Household Goods (HHG) to arrive.

After shipping off your UB shipment, label everything that you will take with you as HHG, and whatever you will leave behind in storage, also known as Non Temporary Storage (NTS). Place sticky notes on what will go and what will stay, and try to separate those items from each other so nothing gets switched. Don’t forget to carefully separate and pack what you will take on the plane, including important paperwork and entertainmaint for yourself and the kids.

Be Present and Aware When the Packers are Working

Its fair to say that packing is not the most glorious job a person can have, therefore the passion and care involved is somewhat lacking most of the time. There are many reputable companies that do an amazing job at what they do, but there are a few bad grapes that can ruin your PCS experience. If you have things you really care about, like picture frames, China, etc. watch the packers or help them pack things carefully. You can also just pack special items yourself before the packers arrive and remember to clearly mark the box. Also, watch your trash. You have NO idea how many people have had their stinky trash packed. They won’t pack perfume, but they’ll pack a stinky diaper pail…trust me.

Relax Often and Take Leave

Above all it is important to relax and take a break whenever you can. I stopped volunteering during the 2 months before my move and every Friday have me time. For my 2010 PCS move to Sicily I’ve had two pedicures, one spa day, and lone Starbucks dates during my “me time.” Its been well worth it to pay the extra childcare to get some relaxation in.

Related posts:

1. We Need to Move it Move it! – Getting Your Family to Move
2. Preparing Your Child for a Move to a New Home
3. Shift – Make your Move
4. Make Time to Take Time for Yourself
5. De Stress and Weigh Less in Six Steps