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Military Relocation Tools

Resources to Help with the Unique Challenges of Military Moves

Military moves can be tough. Service members and their families often face challenges that civilians don’t. From the stress of the job to the emotional ups and downs of relocation, it’s an experience many military families know all too well.

Whether it’s your first move or one of many, navigating an IRP (Integrated Relocation Program) move can bring a mix of emotions—exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes frustrating.

To make your next move easier, we’ve put together helpful resources.

Several resources are available to assist Canadian military personnel with relocation, including online tools, mobile apps, and personalized support programs.

Online Tools and Resources

  • Plan My Move is a Defense Department online tool providing checklists and tips for military members and their families. It simplifies the moving process withMilitary Relocation Tools manageable steps for both first-time and experienced movers. Users can create personalized task lists, view tasks chronologically or by topic, edit and add items, and save checklists in various formats.
  • MilitaryINSTALLATIONS is a website that provides information on Department of Defense (DOD) installations worldwide. It offers a directory of installations, services, maps, program offices, phone numbers, and email addresses. Users can create personalized installation booklets with information on check-in procedures and housing. Eligible users can access local community information.
  • The BGRS (Brookfield Global Relocation Services) Website (bgrsguide.bgrs.ca) offers various tools and information for CAF members. Users can view their relocation budget, track and request advances, upload receipts, track expenses, and submit claims. Members can also access relocation information, virtual information presentations, and FAQs.
  • Through the Member Secure Website (MSW), CAF members can start chats, book planning sessions, review personalized tasks, visit the Knowledge Centre, and view their move budget. They can also access and upload required forms, such as the HHT/DIT application and the Movement of HG&E form.
  • The official Relocation Directive (CAFRD) is available online at canada.ca/military-relocation. This document outlines the benefits, conditions, and limitations of military relocations, including specific information about allowances and entitlements.
  • CAF Connection (www.cafconnection.ca) provides information related to postings and moves. It is associated with “GOOD TO GO! Your military move toolkit” and offers practical, real-life information related to postings and moves.

Mobile App

  • The CAF BGRS Mobile App enhances the user experience for managing relocations, with a move planner, communication hub, and knowledge center. Users can manage expenses, upload receipts, complete claims, and access location information. The app also provides contact information for BGRS and suppliers, and allows for managing messages and tasks.

Support Programs and Services

  • Military OneSource offers quick guidance, answers, and personal support for military personnel and their families, available 24/7/365 through phone, live chat, and other means. They also offer coaching, consultations, and counseling. Military OneSource consultants can help with questions about allowances, benefits, COVID-19 travel restrictions, housing, schools, and spouse employment.
  • Each installation has a Relocation Assistance Program that helps with move planning and provides information on sponsors, child care, newcomer orientation, cultural adaptation, and loan closets.
  • BGRS Agents assist CAF members with the relocation process, clarifying the process and the Relocation Directive, helping prioritize the relocation, estimating funds, creating a move budget, and reviewing expenses. They can also help with completing forms and selecting pack and load dates.
  • CAF members can book 30-minute planning sessions with BGRS agents to discuss their situations, get help with the MSW, clarify the Relocation Directive, and review expense claims. The BGRS system prioritizes first planning sessions requested immediately after the Preliminary Relocation Assessment (PRA) for the next five business days.
  • Military Family Resource Centres (MFRCs) provide support for military families, with information on local schools, healthcare, and other services. They can assist with finding childcare and provide virtual care options.
  • CAF Relocation Coordinators assist with any issues members encounter during their relocation.

Additional Tools

  • The “GOOD TO GO! Your military move toolkit” provides timelines, tools, and checklists to help with planning and reduce stress. It includes sections for general information, house hunting, moving preparation, relocation, settling in, and more, as well as checklists for packing, moving, and settling into a new location.

Key Steps in the Relocation Process

  • Members must register with BGRS within 21 days of receiving relocation instructions to access relocation benefits.
  • Completing the Preliminary Relocation Assessment (PRA) is an important step in initiating the relocation process.
  • A planning session with a BGRS agent should be scheduled soon after registration and completion of the PRA.
  • Members can utilize a House Hunting Trip (HHT) or Destination Inspection Trip (DIT) to secure a new residence.
  • CAF members must complete the required forms and submit them to Base Traffic to coordinate the movement of household goods.
  • Members must submit all expense claims and receipts to BGRS for reimbursement.

These tools and resources are designed to support Canadian military personnel and their families through every step of the relocation process, from planning to settling in.

Remember to check our Blog page on Military Discounts that maybe available during your House Hunting Trip.

Find Your Approved BGRS Relocation Realtor Here

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