How to Plan for an Overseas Military Move?
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Often termed “OCONUS” (outside the Continental United States), the overseas military move is a challenging process. This is because it involves higher security and a role of multiple governments for its smooth success. The process, termed PCS (Permanent Change of Station), can be at times scary and stressful due to its time constraints.
Such relocations, especially international ones, affect the unit and the military personnel who sacrificed in the country they left. To make it less difficult for them, it is very fortunate that the governments of most counties offer strong resources for the international military moving process. The PCS provides guidance to both individuals and teams.
Consulting Key Individuals
The first step recommended upon receiving the overseas PCS assignment is to consult the key authorities in charge and have a detailed discussion with the designated officers. This will not only help you understand the nature of your move but also give you a chance to obtain all details of the relocation process, know your specific moving requirements, and learn the specifications the new destination country demands in terms of the relocation process.
Sponsor and Transportation Officer
The military will assign a sponsor and transportation officer to assist you in the relocation process.
Housing Office
The quickest way to get authentic and accurate information is to reach out to the housing office. Here at the housing office, you get detailed information about the housing options available in your new country of residence.
Family Support Center
Where there is family involved, a family support center might be the best place to get all guidance under one roof. Connect with them and get complete information and guidance.
Essential Documents for an International Move
Note that documentation is a key aspect of any international move. Ensure you are well aware of the list of documents required for an international military move and have them handy throughout the process:
- Passports
- Visas
- Birth certificates
- Driver’s licenses
- Custody information
- Bill of lading/moving inventory
- Customs clearance documentation
- Medical records
- Power of attorney
- Wills
- Marriage certificates/records or divorce records (if applicable)
Additional Tips for Overseas Military Move
Prompt Preparation
The PCS commands come with a short notice and often demand a quick completion. So, make decisions quickly and act promptly upon receiving your overseas military move PCS order.
Research Your Destination
After getting to know the destination’s place and receiving your PCS assignment, spend some time researching your new destination. Explore content that is related to your new country’s culture, climate, customs, regulations, and more. Furthermore, be aware of any crucial requirements of living in that country as a newcomer.
Medical Considerations
Medical and healthcare sectors of different countries have different ways of operating, especially for the rules that apply at the port of entry. Some destination ports require health screenings, while others examine immunization records upon entry. Therefore, it is best advised to investigate the medical requirements of the new country and stay well-prepared accordingly.
Family Transition
International moving can seem very challenging for families. Sit and talk to your spouse and kids about the moving process, ask them questions, and address their concerns regarding their new country, new home, new school, and more. But before doing so, stay well-researched about schools and extracurricular activities for your children and excite them through the information obtained. This will help them visualize their new life and anticipate the big move positively.
Passports and Visas
Ensure that all your documents and passports, as well as those of your family members accompanying the overseas military, are up to date and authentic. Also, verify and apply for any visas if applicable according to the new country. As passport renewals or corrections take time, it is recommended to do those tasks well ahead of time.
Financial Planning
Find out if the new country government has any kind of coverage for overseas military newcomers. To stay on the safer side, prepare for potential self-payment.
Packing Strategically and Minimizing Items
If your overseas move is temporary, do not pack items that are not needed in your destination. It is always sensible and safe to carry essential items or the ones that are emotionally attached to you or are expensive in your new country. Furthermore, pack them strategically and securely.
Shipping and Storage
Explore shipping methods and learn the regulations of the destination country with regard to customs and imports. Some countries have stringent rules restricting bringing several kinds of items. If you’re unsure about taking certain items, movers can store them until you return.
Government Resources
Make the best use of the resources the military or the government may provide to assist you with the moving process. This is because their secure, verified resources can help you with detailed guides and accurate international moving checklists, which others may not.
Furthermore, in this case, there will be dedicated personnel available to address your queries and guide you when you find the process challenging.
Overseas Military Move and Shipping of Your Household Goods
Shipping household goods for overseas military moves is often considered in two parts: the unaccompanied shipment and the regular household goods shipment.
- Unaccompanied Shipment: In this process, a part of your shipping is sent separately from the regular household goods shipments. This is so as to have your essential items arrive to you before you reach your new destination. This shipment generally includes personal care items, clothing, baby gear, or any other immediate access objects and products.
- Household Goods Shipment: This shipment takes a longer time to reach your new destination. It often features aspects like your artwork, furniture, or any items that you can survive without for a couple of days. However, it will contain everything that you have packed and will arrive to you securely.
Kindly note that it is important to mark all your belongings well and label them accurately. This will avoid any kind of confusion, blocks, or delays in the shipment process.
Overseas Military Move and Shipping of Your Car
If you are planning to include your personal vehicle in your overseas military move process, ensure you plan well beforehand and coordinate with your mover beforehand. Keep in mind these key aspects when planning for the vehicle move:
- Learn about the traffic and travel rules in your destination.
- Keep the authorities in charge informed about your decision.
- Contact your installation’s transportation office for guidance.
- Keep a record of all necessary documentation, such as vehicle registration, orders, and more.
- Select the right shipping method after consulting a couple of vehicle moving experts.
- Ensure your vehicle or car meets the moving eligibility criteria. Also make sure it is well cleaned and uprightly maintained to meet the standards of transport authorities.
- Ensure that you follow the guidance provided by the transportation office or shipping company, clear customs, and fulfill the importation requirements upon arrival.
FAQs
Can my family accompany me during the overseas move?
Please verify the approval deadline for including your family, particularly children, in the move. Inquire whether your family can travel with you or separately.
Is there a military exchange, and what’s available locally?
You will need to inquire from experts whether a military exchange is present at your destination. Explore the availability of goods and services at local markets.
What’s the housing situation at my destination?
Ask about potential waiting periods for housing arrangements. Understand the size, quality, and furnishings of available housing or temporary quarters.
What entertaining activities are available at my destination?
Let a travel guide or a moving expert help you understand about the new country’s culture and recreational activities available at your new location.
What is the list of documents I must have for the international move?
The most common documents to have for an international move include passports, identification papers, visas, driving licenses, birth certificates, and marriage certificates, while your mover can provide a comprehensive list. Also ensure you have accurate medical records as asked by authorities and applicable customs papers.
What overseas moving costs are covered by the military during the relocation?
The military may provide housing and ship one owned car. However, you’ll receive an APO or FPO address for mail forwarding.