"Moving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about turning a new house into a home. At Kentuckiana Moving, we make sure the journey is as smooth as the destination." – Jonathan Richards, Owner of Kentuckiana Moving

Essential Tips for Service Members Preparing for a Military Move

Military life often requires frequent relocations, which can be both exciting and challenging for service members and their families. Moving to a new duty station, whether across the country or overseas, requires meticulous planning and organization to ensure a smooth transition.

At Kentuckiana Moving, we understand the unique demands of military moves and are proud to support service members and their families with reliable, stress-free moving services. This guide offers essential tips to help you prepare for your next move while keeping your transition as seamless as possible.

Stay Organized with a Moving Plan

A military move typically comes with short timelines and specific requirements, so staying organized is crucial.

• Create a Moving Binder: Use a binder or digital folder to store all important documents, such as orders, housing paperwork, and inventory lists.

• Make a Checklist: Outline all tasks, including notifying your current landlord, arranging transportation, and updating your address with necessary institutions.

• Track Deadlines: Pay close attention to key dates for pack-outs, transportation, and reporting to your new duty station.

Kentuckiana Moving offers flexible scheduling to align with your military orders, ensuring a seamless process.

Understand Your Moving Entitlements

Service members relocating under Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders are eligible for government-funded moving benefits.

• Know Your Options: Military members can choose a government-managed move, a Personally Procured Move (PPM), or a combination of both.

• Reimbursements: If you opt for a PPM, track all moving-related expenses to ensure proper reimbursement.

• Weight Allowances: Be mindful of the weight limit for household goods, as exceeding it may result in additional costs.

Kentuckiana Moving can provide an accurate estimate of your move’s weight, helping you stay within budget.

Keep an Updated Inventory

Having a detailed inventory of your belongings simplifies packing, unpacking, and insurance claims.

• Document Items: List all your possessions, noting their condition and value.

• Take Photos: Photograph valuable or fragile items as a precaution in case of damage during the move.

• Separate Essentials: Pack a “first-night box” with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, uniforms, and important documents.

Pack Smart for a Military Move

Packing efficiently can make a significant difference during a move.

• Purge Before You Pack: Donate or discard items you no longer need to reduce clutter and stay under your weight limit.

• Label Boxes Clearly: Include your name, destination address, and room location on each box to simplify unpacking.

• Use Color Coding: Assign a color to each room and use matching labels on boxes for quick identification.

• Protect Fragile Items: Use high-quality packing materials to safeguard delicate items during transit.

Kentuckiana Moving offers professional packing services to handle everything from fragile heirlooms to bulky furniture.

Prepare for Life at Your New Duty Station

Settling into a new location can feel overwhelming, but proactive planning can ease the transition.

• Research the Area: Learn about local amenities, schools, healthcare providers, and recreational opportunities near your new base.

• Connect with Resources: Utilize base services like the Relocation Assistance Program (RAP) and Military OneSource for support.

• Meet Your Neighbors: Building a sense of community can make your new location feel like home.

Handle Your Records and Finances

Keeping important documents and finances in order ensures a smooth relocation.

• Secure Important Papers: Carry copies of your military orders, identification, passports, and medical records with you.

• Update Accounts: Notify banks, credit card companies, and insurance providers of your address change.

• Review Housing Contracts: Understand the lease terms or mortgage requirements at your new duty station.

Lean on Professional Support

Moving frequently as a military family comes with unique challenges, which is why working with experienced movers can make a big difference.

• Experience with Military Moves: Kentuckiana Moving has years of experience helping service members relocate quickly and efficiently.

• Flexible Services: From full-service packing to secure storage, we tailor our services to meet your specific needs.

• Commitment to Care: We understand the importance of protecting your belongings and ensuring your family feels supported throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Personally Procured Move (PPM)?
A PPM, formerly known as a DITY move, allows service members to manage their own relocation and receive reimbursement from the military.

How can I estimate the weight of my household goods?
Moving companies like Kentuckiana Moving provide weight estimates based on the size and contents of your home.

What should I pack in a “first-night box”?
Include essentials such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, and basic kitchen items.

How can I reduce stress during a military move?
Stay organized with a moving plan, communicate regularly with your movers, and take advantage of base resources to support your transition.

Does Kentuckiana Moving handle last-minute military moves?
Yes, we specialize in flexible scheduling to accommodate urgent relocation needs for service members.

What happens if my weight limit is exceeded?
The military may charge you for excess weight, so it’s important to declutter and stick to essential items.

Military moves require careful planning, organization, and adaptability to navigate their unique challenges. By staying proactive and working with trusted professionals like Kentuckiana Moving, you can make the transition to your new duty station as seamless as possible.

With our expertise in military moves, we’re committed to supporting service members and their families every step of the way. From packing and transportation to unpacking and settling in, we ensure your move is stress-free and efficient.

Contact Kentuckiana Moving today to learn more about how we can support your military move with reliable, personalized service.