Moving Tips for Military Families

Moving is often a part of life for military families. Frequent relocations are common, and these moves can happen for various reasons, including transfers to different bases or assignments. These relocations can be both exciting and stressful, no matter if you're moving across the country or to a new base nearby. Without careful preparation, the process becomes difficult to manage.

In this blog, we’ll discuss helpful moving tips to help manage the challenges of military family moving and make the transition smoother.

Ultimate Moving Checklist for Military Families

1. Get a Head Start

The earlier you begin preparing for your military move, the easier it will be to handle everything. Military families are often given a limited time frame for a move, so starting the process as early as possible helps you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress.

• Get organized: Create a checklist with important tasks such as sorting and packing, scheduling moving services, and handling any required paperwork.
• Understand the timeline: Know your move dates, when your housing will be available, and when you need to vacate your current home.
• Request orders early: Once you receive your move orders, begin making arrangements immediately. This includes contacting your current base and getting information about the new location.

2. Take Advantage of Military Moving Benefits

The military offers various benefits to help ease the burden of moving. These benefits can save you time and money, so it’s important to understand what’s available to you during your relocation.

• DITY (Do-It-Yourself) Move or PPM (Personally Procured Move): If you choose to handle your move, you may be reimbursed for your expenses. You can rent moving trucks or hire professional movers, and the military will reimburse you for costs based on weight and distance.
• Professional moving services for the military: If the military covers your move, they will typically send a moving company to pack and transport your belongings. You may need to schedule these services, so make sure to confirm everything in advance.
• Storage options: The military also provides temporary storage if needed during your move. This is helpful if your new housing isn’t available immediately.

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3. Sort and Declutter Before Packing

Moving is a great opportunity to downsize and get rid of things you no longer need. This will make your military family moving journey easier, save you money on moving costs, and reduce clutter in your new home.

• Sort through your belongings: Go through each room and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or throw away. This includes clothes, toys, furniture, and other items you no longer use.
• Donate or sell items: Organize a yard sale or donate items to charity. This can be a great way to declutter while helping others.
• Digitize documents and photos: Consider scanning important documents and photos instead of transporting bulky paperwork.

4. Pack Strategically

Packing properly ensures that your belongings are safe and secure during the military move, and it helps keep everything organized in your new home.

• Label boxes: Mark each box clearly with its contents and the designated room to make unpacking easier.
• Pack fragile items carefully: Use bubble wrap or blankets to protect delicate items. For valuables like electronics or jewelry, consider taking them with you instead of packing them with the rest of your belongings.
• Pack an essentials bag: Pack a bag with your family’s must-have items such as toiletries, clothing, medications, and important documents. This will ensure you have everything you need when you first arrive at your new home.

5. Coordinate with Your New Base

Your new base may have specific procedures for military families when they arrive. Understanding these guidelines in advance can help make the transition smoother.

• Contact the base housing office: Learn about available housing options, base amenities, and local resources.
• Understand local regulations: Some bases or localities have specific rules for parking, unpacking, or even pets, so it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with these ahead of time.
• Get involved early: If you have children, contact the base school or daycare center to find out about enrollment procedures and waitlists. Getting on these lists early can save time and stress.

6. Take Care of Important Paperwork

When moving, you’ll need to ensure that all your documents are up-to-date, including medical records, school transcripts, and legal paperwork.

• Update your contact information: Ensure that your current address, phone number, and email are updated with all necessary military and civilian organizations.
• Transfer medical records: Request that your medical records be transferred to the new base’s healthcare facility. If your family has ongoing health needs, make sure your new healthcare provider has all the necessary information.
• Check school transfers: If you have school-age children, make sure their school records are sent to the new school. You’ll want to give them a head start on the transition.

7. Prepare for the Emotional Impact

Relocating can be an emotional challenge, especially for children. It’s essential to acknowledge the emotional aspects of moving and provide support for your family.

• Talk about the move: Before, during, and after the move, talk openly with your family about the changes. Discuss the new opportunities, what to expect, and any concerns they may have.
• Say goodbye properly: Have a small farewell gathering with friends, neighbors, or colleagues. This can help create closure and reduce feelings of sadness or anxiety.
• Stay connected: Encourage your children to stay in touch with old friends through letters, calls, or online video chats. This will help ease their feelings of separation.

8. Get Your New Home Ready

Arriving at your new location can be hectic, so getting your home ready in advance can help make the transition easier for everyone.

• Set up utilities: Before you arrive, set up utilities such as electricity, water, and internet so everything is ready when you move in.
• Familiarize yourself with the area: Explore the local area before you move in. Learn about grocery stores, medical facilities, schools, and other essential services that will help you settle in quickly.
• Personalize your space: Once you’re settled, take the time to make your new home feel familiar. Hang up family pictures, decorate rooms, and create a comfortable space that everyone can enjoy.

Related Articles

• What to Consider Before Moving Cross-Country?
• How to Move into a High-Rise Apartment?
• Do’s and Don’ts of Moving with Pets

Military family moving can be both exciting and challenging, as frequent relocations are part of military life. However, with the right planning and resources, the process can be much more manageable, and understanding the unique needs of the moving process is essential for ensuring a smoother transition.

When moving services for military families are properly coordinated, the transition can be less overwhelming.