PREPARE FOR YOUR MILITARY MOVE OVERSEAS WITH THIS PRACTICAL CHECKLIST

Moving from one place to another is difficult, especially if there are a lot of things that need to be prepared. This scenario is not new to military families since they move often due to the call of duty; sometimes, they might even be stationed overseas. A move overseas can be stressful, as there are many things to take care of, such as packing, announcing the big news, saying goodbyes, notifying your landlord, registering with the Defense Personal Property System, and more.

Aside from the hassle of preparing for the move, there is also the feeling of anxiety as it will be a new place and adjustment. There is a fear that you might not find new friends or that the community might not be that welcoming. Whatever obstacles you face, you need to be prepared.

Your Practical Moving Overseas Checklist

1. Learn About the Country Your Moving to

Moving abroad is a big decision that can bring about some anxiety as you are moving to a new place with an entirely different culture. Thus, it is beneficial to learn about the cultural differences between where you're from and the country you're moving to.

If there is a language barrier, you might consider learning a few phrases to help you navigate your move. This will also help you integrate into the local culture of where you're now stationed.

2. Prepare a Budget & Research the Cost of Living

When moving overseas, it's important to understand the cost of living in the country you are moving to so that you can budget appropriately. This will help you plan a realistic budget.

Also, make sure that you calculate the city level cost of living as this varies depending on the city you live in, your lifestyle, etc.

3. Get Your Documents Ready

When you get your orders to move overseas, there are several documents that you'll need to have on hand.

• Orders – Keep your original set of orders with you, and be sure to make a few copies.
• Identification – Pack your military ID and driver’s license. Additionally, you should bring your Social Security card, passport and birth and/or marriage certificates.
• Financial information – Bring personal checks, hard copies of bank statements, and your credit or debit cards.
• Legal documents – Make sure that you bring any important legal documents. These include divorce or annulment paperwork, your marriage certificate, wills, custody or adoption paperwork, and active power of attorney documents.
• School or employment records – If you are PCSing with children, be sure to bring their transcripts and report cards, as they may be needed for school registration.
• Medical information – Your medical records, dental records, and vaccination records should all be brought along with you. If you have children, be sure to bring their paperwork as well, as it will likely be needed for school registration.

4. Decide What to Pack

Deciding what you can and can't bring with you can feel like a significant undertaking. If you have questions about what is allowed, be sure to check out PCS entitlements.

While you can bring a majority of household goods, there are restrictions on certain items, like cleaning supplies, paint, gasoline, frozen food, produce, etc.

How Should I Prepare for a Move Overseas?

It is much easier to check out a new house, school, or neighborhood if you are moving to a different state, but it will be another story if you move overseas. If this happens, it is best to contact your Transportation Management Office to get more details about what you will need for the move.

Another great idea is to create an account for Plan My Move, a website created by the U.S. Department of Defense to support the military community. In the meantime, here are a few things you must consider when moving overseas.

Get in Touch with Your Overseas Sponsor

The American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association Senior Vice President and Assistant Secretary Charlene Wilde mentioned that if a military personnel is assigned overseas, they will likely have a sponsor or can request one.

So, it is essential to connect with them and other families beforehand to ask questions, especially about their overseas experience with moving.

These sponsors can provide valuable information regarding the area, tips, and more.

Notify Important People/Agencies

Once you find out you will leave the country, you must notify essential people. Get in touch with your property manager or housing about your situation.

However, consider putting it on the market if you own a home. If you live in a base of renting a home, it is best to give them a heads-up before moving.

Remember to contact a TRICARE benefits adviser about your situation so they can guide you on what to do next.

Creating a Plan

Moving overseas is not easy for the military, and can be costly since reimbursement can take a few months. With this, keeping a record book for tracking the expenses made while moving is best. This will also help you determine your entitlement to relocation benefits and allowances.

Don't forget to create an inventory of your household items along with the financial list. Create a list of what will be shipped overseas, kept in storage, and the items you will donate or sell.

Always Prepare the Necessary Paperwork

One of the most important things to consider when moving overseas is your papers. If you are married with children, ensure everyone is listed in the official orders.

You will need this information to apply for no-fee government visas, passports, and other paperwork. Before you set the travel arrangements, you'll need to submit your overseas medical clearance. This will ensure that the station you will be assigned to can handle your family’s medical needs.

Also, always make sure that immunizations, passports, driver’s licenses, and visas are updated. You might also need to bring other documents such as ID cards, your orders, passports, overseas clearance, birth certificates, and marriage licenses/certificates.

Damaged Items? Consider Submitting a PCS Damage Claim

When you are moving overseas, it is natural to pack and ship all your things, hoping that all your stuff will be handled carefully. Some have good move experience, while others might experience damaged goods.

The good thing is you can always file for a damage claim, but before processing the necessary action, you must take photos of the damaged item for documentation. Also, remember there are two forms, one for the damage discovered at delivery and another if you find damaged goods after the delivery.

Remember that when filing a PCS damage claim, you can't submit a generic claim; everything should be detailed and itemized. Once done, it will be mailed or emailed to the shipping company, and they are given 15 days to respond.

In some cases, the DoD will require you to provide the movers company with a written statement within 180 days of delivery, and you need to file it within 9 months of delivery.

When faced with damaged furniture after your move overseas, don't dispose of the item as it can be used as proof of your claim. Another reason is that one rule of PCS damage claims is to let the TSP repair the items instead of replacing them. There is also a damage settlement option, in which you will be compensated within 5 days of the claim.

Suggested reads:

• PCS Cycle Rundown: Initial Orders, Peak of Peak Season, and Moving In
• Military PCS Move - Tips, Knowing Your Rights, and Preparation
• 2025 BAH Rates Have Been Announced: What You Need to Know