Packing The Essentials Before Movers Come

When it comes to PCSing, it can be extremely overwhelming, especially when kids, pets, and travel are added to the mix. If you plan on hiring a moving company, it is important to have everything scheduled as early as possible so that you have more preparation time. It also means more sanity for you and your family when moving day approaches, and trust me, it comes quick! To minimize any other stresses that come with PCSing, we have gathered a list of 10 essential items for you to pack yourselves and take with you before the moving company arrives. 

1. Important Documents Folder 

• Orders 
• Military ID’s and Drivers Licenses for each family member 
• Vehicle Documentation 
• Financial Information 
• Legal Documents 
• School Records
• Medical Information

2. Valuables 

Items such as jewelry, family heirlooms, sentimental pieces, etc.. Pack them separately in a suitcase and hand carry them with you. Taking photos and receipts are highly recommended.  

3. Uniforms and Equipment 

All uniforms of the service member should be packed with you upon checking into their new assignment. Shipment can sometimes take 6-8 weeks to get to your new location, depending on where you are and the time of year. So, it’s important to have all uniforms packed with you, along with any work supplies they will need as well.  

4. Pet Items 

Crates, food, medication and paperwork for your fur babies are vital records to keep with you on moving day. It’s important to note that moving companies will not transport your pets, so be sure to arrange a safe transfer to and from locations to ensure they travel safely and comfortably.  

5. Keys 

Don’t forget to set aside house keys, car keys, and storage keys! 

6. Home Items 

If you’re traveling stateside, consider packing some basic home supplies for your kitchen, bath, and bed, and cleaning for your first night in your home. Paper plates, utensils, all-purpose cleaner, as well as a blowup mattress, blankets and pillows so you don’t end up sleeping on the cold floor. 

7. Suitcases  

Set aside the suitcases you will need for traveling for everyone. If traveling with pets, assign a suitcase for them and fill it with their food, treats, toys, and water bowls so they are readily accessible during the move. If you have children, make sure they have items that are most important to them and vital on a road trip in their own suitcase (and will also keep them occupied). Snacks, snacks, and more snacks, and don’t forget their favorite toys and blankies. 

8. Overnight Bag 

Pack personal essentials in an overnight bag for moving day. This will include a pair of pajamas, clothes for the next day, daily medications, toiletries such as toothpaste and toothbrush and shower essentials such as shampoo and conditioner.  

9. Chargers 

Having a charged phone today is important, for ALL parties involved. Don’t forget to pack the phone AND tablet chargers!  

10. Medication 

Take all the medication you need with you. Consider bringing extra Tylenol and allergy medication just in case.