How to Prepare for a Military Move

As expected or unexpected your relocation may be, preparing for a household move can be extremely tough on everyone involved—even for those that are used to change, like military members and their families. Moving from base to base is part of the job description, however, and is sometimes considered as one of the more stressful aspects of military life.

At Sterling, our mission is to help all of our customers with easy, affordable relocation services—including top-quality solutions for members of our nation’s military and national government. If you or someone in your household is in the military or is a US government employee and is planning a transfer to another location, we can help you arrange a zero-stress, perfectly organized transfer to your next assignment.

To make the most out of your next moving experience, take a look at these helpful tips from our expert team at Sterling Moving & Storage on how to prepare for your next military relocation.

Managing Your Military Move

For military moving, it’s best to look for a government moving company that specializes in this type of relocation project. Hiring specialists will help you avoid complications that arise with less experienced movers, like delays and other setbacks. In addition to a qualified mover, you also need a checklist that is customized to suit your specific needs as a member of the military.

• Act quickly: Once you have your orders in hand, it’s time to act. The first step is to begin the official process. On average, your moving orders can give you from five months to as little as two weeks to report to your new command. Due to the short turnaround time, it’s best to start early especially if it’s peak moving season.

• Check-In with the Department of Transportation: Your first step should be a visit to the local transportation office to secure a relocation briefing. In this briefing, you will be made aware of your relocation options that include moving yourself as well as approved professional movers in your area. Make your list of questions, get your answers, and then act accordingly.

• Check Available Online Resources: While you can visit your branch in-person, visiting online will save you plenty of time. ,Visit Move.mil, the US Department of Defense’s official the website for resources geared just for military members planning a relocation. The site provides information on just about everything—from planning to filing the necessary claims down the road. Don’t be afraid to explore other online resources for military members designed to make a move easier for you and your family.

• Living on Base: If you’re planning to live on base, then it’s best to move quickly to get yourself on the waiting list. Check with the housing office at the new base to find out how. Some bases may have an extensive wait list so plan for alternative living arrangements just in case your first choice isn’t available soon enough.

• Create a Moving Binder: This applies to civilians as well, but for military members this is crucial. This binder will contain all of your important documents that include birth certificates, power of attorney, and any military documents you will need while you’re traveling.

• Family Matters: Inquire with the base family services department in your military unit for more information on moving with your family. This is a great resource to take advantage of for those with family coming too. The information is free of charge and covers everything from tips to employment resources.

• Scout Your New Base: Research the new area. Where possible, visit the new base and surrounding area so you can become familiar with the new location. If you can’t visit ahead of time, then hit the web to get a virtual tour.

Moving with Sterling

Sterling  specializes in military and government moving services for those moving within the United States and to bases around the world. Our ability and expertise are unmatched in the moving industry when it comes to government relocation. Whether you’re in the army, the navy, the marines, or represent another branch of the armed forces or the US Government, we have your next move covered.

We are certified and cleared for local, long distance, and international relocation for all government & military relocation assignments. Through North American Van Lines, we are able to provide a streamlined and smooth relocation for all government personnel and staff. With us, you can count on us to be there every step of the way.

Ready for your government & military relocation? Give us a call to speak with one of our military movers about our professional moving services or contact us here!