The Ultimate PCS Handbook: Part 2
We’re exploring PCSing from start to finish with the Ultimate PCS Handbook. You can view Part 1 here.
In the weeks leading up to your pack and load day(s), you have been busily prepping your home by decluttering, getting your to-do list finalized, packing your must-have items, and prepping your house. I’ve had the honor of gleaning tips from some of the most experienced military veterans and spouses around. Here are a few of their suggestions to keep you on track!
“Even though you want to pack Grandma’s china and crystal yourself, don’t do it! If something happens to it during the move, you won’t be able to file a claim.” —Andrew, retired Army
It’s up to you to notify your moving crew of your valuable items. Let them know when something is valuable to you and cannot be replaced. Consider having the crew pack it, but taking it with you so it gets the extra special care that it deserves. If possible, before the packers arrive, collect your most valuable items that need to be packed and put them in one location. It’s okay to be present in the room while they pack so you feel confident they did the job well.
“Take down all pictures and place them together.” —Marlane, milspouse
This ensures nothing is forgotten, and it’s easier for the packers to get those wall hangings packed snugly together. Taking down all of your wall decor early will also give you time to fill in those holes! If your walls are white, a quick dab of some wall putty as you pull decor from your walls will save you time and hassle during your final walk-through. If your walls are painted any color but white, you can still fill in the holes, then use a cheap foam brush to dab a tiny bit of paint over that spot. No paint, but in a pinch? Try this unconventional nail filling idea!
“Ziploc bags are your friend! I bag up the ‘junk’ drawer and pack my spices.” —Marlane, milspouse
Getting a jump-start on collecting those odds and ends helps keep them contained during a move and makes for easier unpacking. Resealable plastic bags range in size from extra small to huge. This tip can be useful for any collection, from junk drawers to toy cars! Keep an extra box handy for your movers to easily collect and label your furniture hardware.
Press & Seal is another great tool for packing loose items. See ideas for packing jewelry and look at numbers 5 and 9 in this post.
Marlane also added that she uses space bags/vacuum bags to put clothing, linens, towels, and basically any other fabrics that she can fit. These save space in packing and also help to add a layer of plastic protection.
“I pack the clothing from our dressers into our extra luggage. I don’t want the packers to touch my intimates, and it helps keep weight out of the drawers while reducing boxes. The luggage and duffels have to be moved anyway.” —Rebecca, milspouse
Are there things in your home that you don’t want the packers to touch? As long as they aren’t extremely valuable (see Andrew’s point above), pack these items into your luggage ahead of time. This step should happen after you’ve packed the daily items you’re bringing with you. When you pack your temporary necessities (see Part 1), make sure these items are separated from the packers and loaders or they may get loaded!
“Use a small safe to carry valuables such as jewelry, passports, and other important paperwork.” —Sarah, milspouse
This is a very easy way to keep your extra valuables contained. A small fireproof safe is great way to lock up important documents, paperwork, and other items for safekeeping, but it’s also easy to transport. We even put spare keys for our vehicles into this box. If possible, take this safe with you.
“Arrange child care and pet care for pack and load days to save your sanity.” —Lisa, milspouse
You know your household. Are your children at an age where they need hands-on supervision? Will your pet freak out every time someone comes in and out of the front door? These behaviors will only be heightened during pack and load days. Schedule your pup for a fun play day at the local doggie daycare, and lock your shy cozy cat into a room with all his essentials (with your belongings that will be traveling with you!). Maybe your neighbor has been offering to help, but you haven’t known how to accept. This is the time to shuttle your kids over to play with theirs for the day. Another option is to arrange for a babysitter to be at your home and focused on your children so you can focus on the movers.
“Don’t leave, or they’ll stop working!” —Cara, milspouse
Plan to be at your residence for the full pack, load, and delivery days. Do not schedule appointments, travel, or meetings during this time or else it will slow down the process. Make sure you have breakfast, lunch, and dinner plans figured out. Consider offering your packers and movers lunch, snacks, and beverages (keep it simple!). This will keep energy up and hunger at bay.
Stay tuned for the The Ultimate PCS Handbook: Part 3 where we look at the other side of the coin: Behind the Scenes of the Moving Industry.
