Military Moving Hacks: 10 Tips for an Easier PCS

How to make military moving easier every time

Long-distance PCS (permanent change of station) military moves are commonplace when you’re serving our country, but the stress that can come with them doesn’t have to be. 

Many service members choose a PPM (personally procured move), previously known as a DITY (do-it-yourself) move, for convenience and to put some extra cash in their pockets. 

Check out these tips and tricks from the military moving experts at U-Pack® and learn how we can help with a smooth PPM! 

Top 10 PCS tips and tricks

Try these hacks for a smoother military move:

1. Start planning early

Plan for your military move even before you get your orders. Use these resources from U-Pack to help keep you on track: 

• Military moving guide
• Paying for military moves

2. Keep a PCS Binder

To stay organized, put all important documents in one large binder (or digital folder) for easy access during the move. Keep the binder with you during the move rather than packing it with household goods.

Include your PCS orders, inventory lists, reimbursement receipts, housing paperwork and records (birth certificates, marriage licenses, etc.).

3. Be flexible about housing

Research housing options well in advance and keep an open mind. On-base accommodations or an ideal off-base place may not be available immediately, so be prepared for temporary housing and for storing your things while you wait.

4. Keep a positive attitude

Make the most of your PCS adventure, especially if you’re moving with kids. Your attitude will affect children and furry companions, so try to stay positive (even if something goes wrong). Keeping a clear head will help you manage any moving surprises with grace.

5. Use military discounts and resources

Check out any military outreach organizations or resources available to you on base. Many bases have on-site counseling to help you and your family during the PCS transition.

Most bases have loan closets available to borrow household goods while waiting for yours to arrive or staying in temporary housing. Check with base services for details. Many retailers offer military discounts, so you can save on packing supplies and other moving necessities.

6. Choose a military-friendly moving service

Partner with an experienced military mover for the best PPM. U-Pack has been in business since 1997, and we’ve handled thousands of shipments for service members and their families. We can help with weight tickets for reimbursement, and active-duty military personnel are eligible for $100 off the moving cost with the code DITY10. 

7. Consider selling and replacing furniture and appliances

Not all housing is the same, so furniture and appliances from your previous home might not fit in the new space. Declutter before moving to avoid paying to ship things you don’t need.

You can avoid paying to move large furniture and appliances like washers and dryers by selling them and replacing what’s needed once you’re settled. Another alternative is renting these essentials if you know you’ll relocate again soon.

8. Prepare household goods for storage and fast unpacking

When packing your things, label the boxes so they’re easy to unpack and ready for storage (if needed).  

Color-code boxes to show which rooms they belong in. Number or use QR Code stickers (available online) and take inventory of everything in each box to make it easy to find specific items when unpacking or retrieving things from storage.

9. Designate a “no-pack” zone in the home

Whether you’re handling all the packing or hiring moving labor, establish a “no-pack” zone in your home. Designate a room or space in your home to hold items that will travel with you during the move. 

Set aside essentials for each family member, like favorite toys, at least a week’s worth of clothing, bedding, toiletries and medications. If you’re moving with pets, don’t forget to include their supplies.

10. Clean as you go

The last thing you’ll want to do is spend the whole next day (or more) cleaning your home after loading the moving equipment. Clean the space as you go to avoid a last-minute rush. After packing and loading a room, clean it from top to bottom and seal the space. Your future self will thank you.

Try this professional cleaning guide that works for apartments or houses. 

PCS smarter, not harder with U-Pack. Get your quote today!

It’s easy to plan your PPM with U-Pack. For a free quote, use our convenient online form or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. 

Don’t forget to ask for weight tickets and ask for your military discount. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions, and thank you for your service!