PCS Smarter, Not Harder: Moving Hacks for Military Families

Make moving easier every time you PCS

Serving in the military often means relocating multiple times. When PCS (permanent change of station) orders arrive, the planning begins. 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. 

Preparing for a long-distance military move can be stressful, from packing to making arrangements — but it doesn’t have to be. Check out these tips and tricks from the military moving experts at U-Pack® and learn how we can help with a smooth PPM! 

8 moving hacks for military PPMs

Try one or more of these tips for a stress-free PCS move. 

Keep a PCS Binder

Place all important documents in one large binder (or digital folder) for easy access during moves. Include PCS orders, inventory lists, reimbursement receipts, housing paperwork and records (birth certificates, marriage licenses, etc.). Keep the binder with you during the move rather than pack it with household goods.

Use military resources

Take advantage of resources available for military moves. For example, U-Pack has these to keep you on track: 

• Military moving guide 
• Advice for paying for military moves

Take advantage of free item offers and discounts

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 pay less for packing supplies and other moving necessities. 

Keep an open mind about housing

Research housing options well in advance and be flexible. On-base accommodations or an ideal off-base place may not be available immediately, so be prepared for temporary housing and storing your things while waiting. Stay positive and make the most of the adventure, especially if you’re moving with kids. 

Sell and replace furniture and appliances

Since not all housing is the same, furniture and appliances from your previous home might not fit in the new space. 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. 

Donate unused items to military outreach organizations

Declutter before you move so you’re not paying to transport unwanted things. Many bases have thrift stores with donation centers to help other military families. You can also donate to local charities or shelters or get rid of items on Facebook Marketplace or a similar platform.

Prepare household goods for storage and fast unpacking

When packing your things, prepare the boxes to make sure 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.

Choose a mover with military moving experience

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. 

Ready for a stress-free DITY move? Get your U-Pack quote today!

It’s easy to get your PPM price with U-Pack. Use our free online quote form or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. Don’t forget to ask for weight tickets if you need them! 

Let us know in the comments if you have any questions!