Moving Tips for Military Personnel
Moving is a big deal, especially when you’re in the military, but if you plan ahead and stay organized, it can go much smoother. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Before You Move:
● Plan early! As soon as you know you’re moving, get things started. Your move needs to fit with your military orders.
● Make a “move” folder to keep all your important papers together. This includes stuff like forms, bills, and contact info.
● Tell everyone who needs to know that you’re moving. This means your family, friends, and any clubs or groups you belong to.
● Create a checklist and make a timeline for your move so you know what to do and when.
● Collect all the important documents you’ll need, like your ID and military records.
● Read the rules about moving for the military. It’ll tell you what you’re allowed to do and what money you can get.
● Sign up with BGRS; they’re the main people who help with military moves. They handle the details and the money.
● Make a BGRS account online and fill out the first forms.
● Make sure your bank info is on the website.
● Ask for money early so you have it when you need it.
● Take care of all the legal stuff, like changing your address on your bank account and other important things.
● Find out about your new place, like how much things cost, what the schools are like, and local rules.
● Decide if you want to live on base or off base. Living on base is like being in a community, but off base gives you more choices.
● If you own a house you will need to have it checked out by an appraiser.
● If you rent, tell your landlord you’re moving by sending them a letter.
● Get info from the family center in your new location.
Packing and Moving Day:
● Get rid of stuff you don’t need before you start packing.
● Sort your things into groups like kitchen stuff, clothes, and so on.
● Label each box clearly with what’s inside and which room it goes in.
● Hire professional movers to help you.
● Take pictures of your stuff before the move and after, so you can see if anything gets broken.
● Be nice to the movers; it can make things easier.
● Pack your own non-breakable things to be sure it is done the way you like.
● Pack special stuff yourself, like electronics, bikes, or jewelry. Keep the boxes open for movers to check.
● Keep important things like clothes and medications with you, not on the moving truck.
● Watch the unpackers to make sure they are careful, especially with fragile items.
● Make a list of everything that gets loaded and unloaded from the truck.
● Keep copies of every single piece of paper, email, or receipt about the move.
● Make sure the movers test your electronics and check if you have high value items.
● Don’t be afraid to speak up if the movers are not doing things correctly.
● Take down anything that sticks out that might be in the way.
● Put all the small parts of things you take apart into labeled bags.
Money Stuff:
● Understand what money you are allowed to get and how you get paid back for moving.
● Make a budget for your move and keep track of what you spend.
● Keep all receipts so you can get money back.
● Ask for money ahead of time, before you spend it.
● Use special companies (TPSPs) that can bill the military directly.
● Know the 3 different types of moving money and what they mean.
● Be sure that they figure out your moving money correctly.
Taking Care of Yourself and Your Family:
● Help your kids get ready for the move.
● Use resources like family centers to help you with the move.
● Take care of your feelings. Moving can be stressful, so talk to people or get help if you need it.
● Take time to do things you enjoy and take care of yourself.
● Make sure your pets are ready to move with their shots and any special travel things.
● Try to go to community events to make new friends.
● Look for people who understand what you are going through so that you can feel supported.
After the Move:
● Get to know your new area, the fun places to visit, and the parks.
● Know that it’s normal to feel a little sad or homesick after a move.
● Change your address on everything important.
● Check the water and electricity meters at your new place.
● Change the locks at your new place.
● Join groups or do things that you enjoy and that will help you feel better.
Special Items:
● Motorcycles can be moved in the truck with other things. Take off the mirrors before the move. Think about putting it in a crate to protect it.
● Electronics: Take a video or photo of your electronics working, with a newspaper showing the date.