Career Talk Blog | Planning a PCS Move in 2017? Stay Organized with a Moving Binder
Staying organized during a PCS can be very challenging. One of the best ways to do so is to create a binder dedicated to moving.
If you have been on Pinterest recently, there is good chance that you have seen some great examples, or you may be lucky enough to have a military spouse friend who has shared her ideas for her binder with you.
This is a project that all military spouses are able to do, whether you are an expert crafter or beginner.
We’ve compiled a list of the basics for what to include in your moving binder to help aid your next PCS.
- You will need a binder, tabs, clear binder inserts, and a pen or markers to start.
- You could re-use a 3-ring binder you’ve had sitting around for a while, or purchase a new decorative one if you’d like.
- What you decide to include is up to you, our suggestions are just a start!
TAB: Orders
You’ll definitely want to have a tab with your spouse’s orders. These may come in advance if you’re lucky, or last minute. No reason to feel helpless while you wait for orders! Your moving binder can help you start to get things done during the much-anticipated wait for your move date.
TAB: Pre-move Checklist
Create a list of what you have to get done before you move, and cross them off as they get completed. Here are some ideas:
- Get family health records
- Clean out closets
- Schedule utility turn-off
- Contact landlord
- Schedule cleaners and repairs
- Join military spouse Facebook group at new duty station
- Research housing options
TAB: Important Documents
Your social security cards, passports, birth certificates, LES, power of attorney and other important documents should not get packed up and shipped by the movers. Keep these on you at all times!
TAB: Moving Paperwork
Create a section for your moving paperwork, whether it’s a government move or DITY. All of your hotel & gas receipts, weigh tickets, toll fees, and more can all be included here! Have the contact information for the moving office, moving company, etc. You’ll be happy you planned ahead to keep all this stuff organized!
TAB: Pet Records
Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all shots and have the vet give you a copy of their records. You will need these if you stay in base lodging while you are house hunting with your animals, and you’ll likely need it when signing a lease. You will also be prepared for when your pet suddenly needs to be boarded or make a trip to the vet.
TAB: Housing Options
Research your options for living on and off base and keep notes in your binder. Include the base housing office phone number & address. You can even print off the floor plan options if they are available to you. If you’re looking off base, consider contacting a realtor and including their contact information. Look online for property rentals and print off your favorites with pictures. Put them in your binder with a place to write down notes so you can remember what you did and did not like.
Enroll in School.
Yes, we mean it! If you’re considering enrolling in our partner school programs but have a PCS move on the horizon, no problem! Just talk to your program consultant about your relocation details. You can move forward with your enrollment approval right now and take the time off as needed to get your family settled. We’ll help you through the process.
We’ve started with the basics, but the options are endless. Do you have more suggestions for what military spouses should include in their moving binders? Jump over to our Facebook page and share with our military spouse community!
STAY INFORMED
