12 Tips to Help You PCS with a Smile

“The taxi is here!” I screamed to my husband, feeling stressed during our PCS.

“It’s here already? We’re still packing!” he answered. Clothes were on the floor and not in suitcases. Appliances were still plugged in and not packed. You name it, and it was not ready. We were not ready.

My husband and I had been lucky enough to receive an overseas assignment, but the PCS back to America was the first big move we made together since getting married. Looking back on that day, we had no idea how to PCS as a couple. I got into the cab in tears.

“What’s wrong?” my husband asked.

“I’m so stressed!” I said.

We survived the international PCS and two more moves that year for a grand total of three moves in 11 months. I’m happy to report that each time I shed fewer tears. Instead, I felt more prepared, less stressed, and more excited.

Here are 12 tips to help you during your next move:

1. Research your heart out.

Most (but of course, not all) of the time, your service member will be notified of a potential PCS as little as a week out (I can speak from experience) or several months prior to the big move. No matter where you are headed, read about your next duty station (AWN has a number of resources in our Post With the Most series, which links to installation Facebook pages and spouse groups). The Internet provides a wealth of knowledge on every military installation, but be sure to check out the installation’s official Facebook page and website. Become a member of the area’s Facebook groups. Contact the local visitors’ bureau and discover what there is to see and do.

2. Find a place to live.

Everything else falls into place once you have somewhere to call home at your next duty station. Research the different communities (both on and off the installation) and identify where you think your family would fit best. Consider the amenities, if any, that your family needs or wants at your new home, like a community center or pool. Check with the installation housing community to research home types, floor plans, and community amenities.

3. Begin a PCS purge.

My husband and I take every PCS as an opportunity to throw away, donate, or sell some belongings. If your current installation has a thrift or consignment shop on post, ask them for a list of donations or consignments that they will accept. Not only will your next home be less cluttered, but another family will be grateful for your generosity.

4. Prepare your current home for the move.

When you live on an installation you can request a pre-inspection of your home at any time. Someone from the housing community will walk through your home and let you know if there are any potential charges that you may receive upon move-out. Addressing these issues prior to move-out can help you avoid paying the charges.

5. Get smart.

Yes, there’s an app for that! Check out the My Move app for iPhone and Android. Moving checklists, moving tips, and a box tracking system will turn that PCS frown into a smile.

6. Pack critical belongings in advance.

Take items you cannot live without and set them aside before the packers arrive. Tape signs to items that you do not want the packers to pack, or better yet, take them out of the house or put them in an empty room and lock the door. Don’t forget to take toilet paper and snacks with you! They will be some of the first items that your children request and need in your new home.

7. Remember PCS pet needs, too!

Your pets will also be impacted by your move. Some animals are more anxious than others when leaving the house. Do what you think is best for your pet’s personality. Keep your pets with you for as long as possible while you are in transit. Bring water, food, toys, pet snacks, animal beds, and potty bags. If you are driving to your next duty station, carve out a space in your car that is specifically for your pets.

8. Call your Battle Buddy.

Battle Buddies are important. Stress levels tend to be at their highest on move-out day. Call your Battle Buddy and inform them of your move-out day. Don’t be afraid to ask for their support and help (though they’ll probably be willing to lend a hand), like looking after your children while your belongings are packed and loaded onto the moving truck.

9. Have fun!

If possible, take a few days of leave on the way to your new home to explore. If you’re driving, share the route with your children so that they notice specific landmarks on the way. Visit friends, family, and/or go to a city you’ve never been to before. Build in activities for your children and pets too. Take them on a long walk, or go to a playground and dog park. Take activity books or a movie for your children to enjoy while they are in the car or on a plane.

10. Settle in after PCS.

Once you reach your new home, invite your children and pets to explore the empty house. Depending on their age, ask your kids how they would like to set up their bedroom. Get them involved in the move-in process as much as possible. Take notice of how your pet is responding to the new house—calm them and lead them through your new home, if necessary. Use the same water dish and doggie bed in your new home as your pet will likely take comfort in things that are familiar to them. Walk your pets and children around the new neighborhood. It may take some time for everyone to become accustomed to the new digs, but the sooner they start, the better.

11. Unpack one box at a time.

Once you arrive at your next duty station, the movers will bring everything into your new home all at once. Take a deep breath (we know it’s overwhelming!), and unpack one box at a time. Take as much time as you need. Your move does not have to be entirely accomplished in one day and your house doesn’t need to be fully set up in the same week. Dependent on your children’s age, designate an area where they can play as you unpack.

12. Find a post-PCS Battle Buddy.

Battle Buddies are not only important during move-out, but also during move-in. Get to know your neighbors and the people in your community. Become involved in organizations that share your hobbies, like a book club, PWOC or CWOC, or a running club.

 

Before you know it, the stress will fade, the new place will feel like home, and everyone will settle in. At least until the next PCS orders arrive. But now you know you can do the PCS with a smile.