Bellingham WA Real Estate
Amy S Zender | RealtorŪ | Keller Williams Western Realty
Beautiful Bellingham Real Estate | amyzender@kw.com | Phone: 360-920-4886
Military PCS
Your spouse calls home and says "We have orders!" It's time to have a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), military style. Peak seasons for military relocation are between May and August usually; however when dealing with flight students relocating, it can be any time of year. During these peak times, it is best to schedule movement of your household goods 30 days in advance. It is always best to keep in mind that upon arrival at your new duty station, delivery of your shipment can still take up to a couple of weeks, so remember to remain flexible.
It is always wise to bring along more copies of your orders than what you think you might need. Everyone seems to need a copy of them! Of course, traveling with children means having proof of dependents readily available along with a power of attorney. It is surprising how often the spouse of the active duty member is the one left to sign so many documents, because the new duty station required the member to report immediately. POAs are easily drawn up simply by contacting your local JAG office on base or post, and having a temporary document created and signed. Notaries are right there at JAG and perform this invaluable service at no cost.
One very stressful series of days are the packing and moving ones. It is important for you to realize that you have every right to speak up if you packers are not doing a professional job. Packers are often paid by the job and not by the hour, so their attention to detail can sometimes be lacking. Speak up and ask for better service. If needed, call their supervisor. Furthermore, buy them lunch! Having coffee and donuts is important, but buying a round of hamburgers and soda for everyone makes them very appreciative!Do not allow your important documents to get packed, such as birth certificates, passports, social security cards, official orders, or any prior bills. Best to pack that with you in your vehicle when traveling, or a safe place in your suitcase. It is recommended that you pack your own pictures as these are invaluable and cannot be replaced. Always bring at least one phone with you so upon arrival to your new location so you can immediately get "
plugged in" and take care of local business right away. Remember your pets as you move. Since 9/11, it has been difficult shipping animals without owners on the plane, so more and more military families are traveling with pets by car. Pack all of their essentials as they may have to spend some time in a boarding facility until you locate a new home.
plugged in" and take care of local business right away. Remember your pets as you move. Since 9/11, it has been difficult shipping animals without owners on the plane, so more and more military families are traveling with pets by car. Pack all of their essentials as they may have to spend some time in a boarding facility until you locate a new home. 
If traveling with children, do keep in mind that they are under some stress too. Have them pack their own suitcase, with a few of their favorite toys and books. Having that independence and security will be comforting when sleeping in unfamiliar places. Plan a few surprises along the way! Play the license plate game, or surprise them at a rest stop with a coloring book or a treat. Whatever you decide, make it special. Understanding that will make for a lot less whining!
And of course, remember your sense of humor! In all likelihood, some plan will go awry in the process. Try taking it in stride and move on! Getting frustrated will only make the move that much more difficult. Just smiling through it all will allow for some fantastic stories later down the road!
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