Published: June 26, 2022
A big part of the military experience is the inevitable Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move. Hundreds of thousands of service members and their families do it each year, and luckily, most things that could go wrong have before.
Gleaning insights from experienced movers is a best practice, especially for newcomers, but even seasoned military families may need an occasional refresher. There are several parts to a PCS and finding the right information source could make all the difference. For example, PCSing overseas accompanied or unaccompanied will have a separate set of preparation requirements than moving within the same geographic area.
Fortunately, there are some great military community blog writers providing incredible tips and tricks to make your next move better. Here are five PCS blogs to get you through, from start to finish.
Designed by military spouses Moni Jefferson and Maria Reed — who you may know from the series “Moving with the Military”— this virtual guide offers one-minute tips to put you at ease. Creatively, Moni and Maria share their information in video format, covering a variety of topics. Maria starts with what to do when you find out you’re PCSing: don’t panic. Great advice!
After you finish the PCS Prep Minute series, check out their 31 Day Organization Boot Camp. This month-long video series will get you primed and prepped for the movers. And if you’re doing a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move, you’ll definitely want to follow these helpful tips.
2. The Ultimate PCS Checklist for Changing Schools With Military Kids
Whether it’s your first move or your fifth, remembering to check all of the boxes for school-aged children is daunting. The Military Wife and Mom blogger Lauren Tamm will not only walk you through the information gathering process, but she also reminds us of the importance of being prepared for our children’s transitions, too. Don’t forget to print your free downloadable “PCS Checklist for Military Kids Changing Schools.”
3. 6 Resources for a Military Move with Pets
It’s estimated that around 67% of the population owns a pet. For a community that moves every 2-3 years, not only can this be costly but complicated if not done correctly. Author of “You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse,” Jen McDonald knows the dangers of transport mishaps and wants to help PCSing families get their pets to their next home safely. Her guide includes helpful links on air transport, grants and reimbursements to help cover costs, fostering options, and more. Her article also links to several other how-to’s for relocating with pets.
4. The Complete Guide to OCONUS (Overseas) Military Moves
Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS) moves offer an opportunity for families to experience global travel and living. Receiving household goods may take longer. MYMOVE writer Kathryn Pomroy offers a checklist for preparing for your move outside of the contiguous 48 states.
After the organization, the purge, the movers, school changes, and happily getting your household goods on the other side, it’s time to focus on yourself. Military spouse Claire Wood has been writing for over a decade on her blog “The Story of our Lives.” She reflects post-PCS on the importance of giving yourself space and time to live in the change.
Relocating has its stresses and challenges, whether you’re heading two cities over or across the Atlantic. With a little preparation from these five articles, you can make each PCS easier. Blue Star Families is proud to offer the NEW Member Perks Program, where you can find helpful discounts and savings for your next move.
Posted In: PCS