For those in the military, the need to move can happen often. Most of those who are service members will move at least a few different times, and they may move to other countries. Whether the move is nearby or far away, it is important to understand the process and know what to expect to reduce the stress and make the military relocation as smooth as possible.
Orders
Around three to six months before the move, the person will receive their orders to relocate. The orders will give details about where they’re going, when they need to report at the new location, and any requirements for the move. It’s at this point it’s a good idea to start planning for the move. The person will want to start looking into where they’ll live in the new location, what they need to do to get ready, and more.
Prepare for the Move
Preparing for the move can take some time. Pack up everything, getting rid of anything that doesn’t need to go to the new location. Depending on how far away the new location is, those who are relocating may choose to take all of their belongings or get rid of as much as possible to minimize what they take with them.
Use Benefits and Allowances
During a relocation, service members may be eligible to use different benefits and allowances to help pay for the relocation. A dislocation allowance helps cover the cost of relocation, while a household goods shipment can help with covering the move of items to the new home. There may also be allowances for things needed during the move, like hotel stays while they look for a home to buy or an allowance to cover daily living expenses.
Handling the Move
It’s important to keep track of everything needed for the move. In most cases, a moving company will handle the service member’s belongings. Sometimes, they will help pack, too. Once the belongings arrive at the new house, everything can be unpacked and the person can start to get settled into the house. The moving process itself can take time, depending on how far away the person is moving.
Get Settled into the New Home
After arriving, those who purchase a home will want to get everything unpacked and start to get settled into the area. Take the time to learn more about the location before reporting to the new location for the first time. Then, make sure everything is set up in the home the way it should be and ensure everyone in the family is unpacked. Take a little bit of time to settle in and start to get to know the new area.
If you’ve received orders to move, it’s a good idea to start planning the move right away. Take the time to create a list of everything that needs to be done, pare down on items that aren’t needed, and pack everything up for the move. Make sure you know about any benefits that can be used and anyone who can help you find a home in the new location.