A successful move starts long before the moving truck pulls up. Taking the time to properly sort, organize, and pack your belongings not only protects them during transit but also makes the unpacking and settling-in process at your new home much smoother. This guide provides a collection of tips, from general best practices to specific advice for your military move.

The work you do now will pay off tenfold on moving day. This is the time for high-level organization and decluttering.

Create your moving binder

Your moving binder is your single most important organizational tool. This will be a physical binder or digital folder that you hand-carry with you during your entire move. It should never be packed with your household goods.

• What to include: Copies of your orders, passports, birth certificates, Social Security cards, vehicle titles, insurance policies, school and medical records, and pet documentation. Also, keep a copy of your personal property inventory in this binder. For more information on what documents to have ready, see our PCS 101 Guide.

Declutter your home

An upcoming PCS is the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need. The less you have to move, the easier it will be, and it ensures you stay under your authorized weight allowance. Sort your items into three categories:

1. Keep: Everything you plan to take with you.

2. Sell or Donate: Items that are in good condition but you no longer use.

3. Toss: Anything that is broken, expired, or no longer usable.

This is the hands-on part. If you're doing a full or partial Personally Procured Move (PPM), you'll be doing this yourself. If the government is moving you, these tips will help you prepare for the professional packers.

General packing tips

• Pack by room: Keep items from the same room together. This makes unpacking and organizing your new home much easier.

• Label everything clearly: Use a marker to label the top and sides of every box with its contents and destination room. You can also ask the packers to show you the inside of a box before they tape it so you can add more detailed notes.

• Don't overpack boxes: Use small boxes for heavy items like books and large boxes for light items like pillows. Keep every box under 50 pounds.

• Use clear bags for small parts: If you choose to disassemble any of your own furniture before the movers arrive, put all the screws and hardware into a labeled plastic bag and tape it securely to the largest piece of that furniture. This ensures nothing gets lost.

• Clean out replaceable items: Before the packers arrive, it's a good idea to throw out items that are dirty and easily replaceable, like used toilet brushes or old mops. Make sure your trash cans are empty to avoid having trash packed with your belongings.

Create your own inventory

While the movers will create an official inventory, it is highly recommended that you create your own. This is your personal record of what you own and its condition. Use your smartphone to take photos and videos of all your belongings, paying special attention to high-value items like electronics, furniture, and collectibles. This inventory will be critical if you need to file a claim for loss or damage later.

 

On the day before the movers arrive, do a final sweep to make sure everything is ready.

Set up your "do not pack" zone

Designate a specific room, closet, or corner of your home for items you do not want the movers to touch. A bathroom or a car are great options. Clearly label the area with a "DO NOT PACK" sign. This zone should contain:

• Your moving binder with all important documents.

• Laptops, cell phones, and chargers.

• Medication.

• Jewelry, cash, and other small valuables.

• A suitcase with several days' worth of clothing for your family.

• Pet food and supplies.

• Your personal inventory photos/videos.

Prepare pro-gear separately

If you have professional gear, make sure it is clearly separated from your regular household goods. This ensures it is weighed and documented correctly and does not count against your primary weight allowance. To learn more about your allowances, see our Guide to Personal Property Entitlements.

Whether you've hired movers for a PPM or are using a government-arranged company, knowing what to expect on the day the packers arrive can reduce stress and help you stay in control.

Your responsibilities

Your most important job is to be present and available. You or a designated representative must be at your home the entire time the packers are there to answer questions, provide direction, and oversee the inventory process. Clear pathways in your home so the crew can move freely, and keep kids and pets in a safe, separate area to avoid accidents.

What the movers will and will not do

The moving crew is responsible for packing all your belongings using proper materials. However, there are some things they are not authorized to do.

• They will not take down items mounted to the walls. You are responsible for dismounting TVs, curtain rods, shelves, and picture frames before they arrive.

• They will not disconnect appliances. You are responsible for the cost and process of disconnecting your washer, dryer, refrigerator, and other appliances.

• They will not handle prohibited items. The crew will not pack hazardous materials, ammunition, or other items not allowed in a household goods shipment.

Tipping and providing refreshments

It is not required or expected that you tip the moving crew. However, providing refreshments like bottled water or ordering a pizza for lunch is a kind and appreciated gesture, especially on a long, hot day.

If you have any issues with the crew on packing day, first try to resolve it with the crew supervisor. If that doesn't work, do not hesitate to contact your local transportation office for assistance.

Your move, Our mission - Personal Property Activity