Relocating as part of a military assignment comes with unique challenges. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro at moving, a military relocation with family can be a stressful experience. With proper planning and the right strategies, you can make the process a lot smoother and more manageable.
In this article, we’ll share top tips to help you prepare for a successful military relocation, including valuable information on car shipping and making the transition easier for your family.
Start Planning Early
Planning is key when it comes to military relocation, especially when moving with your family. The sooner you start, the more organized and stress-free your move will be.
- Create a Checklist: Start by making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before the move. This could include packing, setting up movers, notifying schools, and updating documents. Breaking tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps can make the process feel less overwhelming.
- Contact Your Relocation Assistance Program: Reach out to the Relocation Assistance Program at your installation for guidance and support. They can provide useful information on housing, schools, and local amenities at your new station.
- Involve the Whole Family: Make sure everyone in the family is involved in the planning process. Letting kids help pack their belongings or make decisions about their new room can help them feel more comfortable with the move.
Planning ahead and involving your family can make the transition smoother and help everyone feel prepared for the changes ahead.
Utilize Military Resources
There are several military resources available that can help make relocation easier. Taking advantage of these resources can save you both time and stress.
- Housing Assistance: Contact the Housing Office at your new installation as soon as you receive your orders. They can provide information on housing availability, waitlists, and rental options in the local area.
- Military OneSource: Military OneSource is an invaluable resource for military families preparing for relocation. They provide free counseling, budget planning assistance, and relocation guides that can help you through every aspect of the move.
- Family Support Services: Many installations have family support services that offer moving workshops, family counseling, and even loaner kits with basic household supplies to use until your household goods arrive.
By using the support and services provided by the military, you can ease the relocation process and ensure that all aspects of the move are addressed.
Image Credit Goes to AutoStar Transport Express
Car Shipping Options for Military Relocation
If you’re relocating across the country, you may need to consider how to transport your vehicle. Driving long distances can be time-consuming and tiring, especially with family in tow. Car shipping can be a convenient solution that saves you time and effort.
- Open vs. Enclosed Transport: There are two main options for car shipping—open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is the more cost-effective option, but it leaves your vehicle exposed to the elements. Enclosed transport is more expensive but provides extra protection, which may be preferable if you have a luxury or classic car.
- Choosing a Car Shipper: Make sure to choose a car shipping company that is licensed and experienced with military relocations. Look for a company that offers military discounts, and always verify that they have the proper registration with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
- Timing and Preparation: Book your car shipping service as soon as you receive your orders. Preparing your car for shipping is essential—remove all personal items, document its current condition, and leave only a quarter tank of gas.
Car shipping can alleviate some of the stress associated with a military relocation, giving you one less thing to worry about as you prepare for the move.
Pack Smartly and Strategically
Packing is often the most time-consuming aspect of any move. Packing strategically can help make the process more efficient and less stressful.
- Declutter Before Packing: A military relocation is a great opportunity to declutter. Go through your belongings and decide what you want to keep, donate, or discard. Moving fewer items will make the packing process quicker and less expensive.
- Pack a “First Day” Box: Pack a box with all the essentials you will need during the first few days in your new home. This should include toiletries, clothing, important documents, and any items that will help make your new space comfortable right away.
- Label Boxes Clearly: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. This will make unpacking easier and help you find the items you need without having to open every box.
- Consider Professional Packers: Depending on your relocation orders, you may be eligible for government-provided movers who can also pack your belongings. Professional packers can save you a lot of time and ensure that your items are packed safely and securely.
Packing efficiently will save you time and make settling into your new home much smoother.
Update Important Documents
Relocating means you need to update several important documents to ensure everything is current and in compliance with your new location.
- Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: Different states have different requirements for updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration. Check with your new state’s DMV and make sure you update these documents within the required timeframe, usually between 30 to 90 days.
- Insurance Policies: Notify your car, health, and homeowner’s insurance providers about your move. Coverage requirements may vary by state, so it’s important to make sure your policies are compliant.
- School Records: If you have children, make sure to transfer their school records to the new school. Contact the new school in advance to understand their requirements and to make the transition smoother for your children.
Updating your documents promptly will help prevent any legal or logistical issues down the line.
Make the Transition Easier for Kids and Pets
Moving can be especially challenging for children and pets, as they may not fully understand the changes happening around them. Taking steps to make the transition easier can help your entire family adjust more comfortably.
- Involve Kids in the Process: Talk to your children about the move and what they can expect. Let them help with packing their belongings and making decisions about their new room. Providing some control can help them feel more comfortable with the move.
- Keep Routines: Try to keep routines as consistent as possible during the move. This can help provide a sense of normalcy and comfort for both children and pets.
- Prepare for Pets: If you have pets, make sure they are comfortable during the move. Plan for rest stops if driving, and consider pet-friendly accommodations if you’ll need to stay somewhere overnight. If flying, check the airline’s pet policy and book in advance.
Helping your children and pets feel more secure during the move will make the transition easier for the whole family.
Conclusion
A military relocation with family can be a daunting experience, but with the right preparation and resources, you can make the process much smoother. By starting planning early, utilizing military resources, considering car shipping options, and taking steps to ease the transition for your family, you can ensure a successful move.