Make Your Final Military Move a Success

During your military career, you’ve probably moved a few times – each one a new adventure. For most service members leaving the military, either at retirement or at their end of active service separation, a final move at government expense is authorized. Make your final move the easiest one yet with these tips:

• Make sure you are aware of your moving benefits. You may be entitled to a number of benefits that include storage of household goods, travel allowances and a per diem. Travel allowances and other final move benefits vary by service branch, so check with your installation Military and Family Support Center or transportation office for more information.
• Take to the web. Visit the following online Defense Department resources to help you get organized and plan your move:
  • The Moving Your Personal Property page provides comprehensive moving information and contacts, including content from the former Move.mil website. Now you can access moving guides, tips and videos, entitlement brochures, service branch specific customer service contacts, DPS log in and more from one easy location.
  • Plan My Move is a relocation tool that can help you get organized by creating checklists for different parts of your move, including tasks related to family, household goods, paperwork and housing. Print your checklists or save them online to track your progress as you complete tasks.
  • MilitaryINSTALLATIONS provides comprehensive information for installations around the world. Find contacts for key programs and services, local resources, maps, community information and more.
  • The Department of Defense Transition Assistance Program has information, tools and training to prepare you and your family for your military-to-civilian transition. Find your nearest Transition Assistance Program office. Learn more about military transition assistance programs and resources.
• Talk to professionals. Contact your local Military and Family Support Center or transportation office and speak to a professional who can help you manage your move. Each move is different, and regulations vary by service branch https://installations.militaryonesource.mil/search?program-service=26/view-by=ALLand location.
• Start planning early. As soon as you know where you’re going, schedule the move or storage of your household goods. You may have up to a year to complete your transition, however, scheduling your move early will help ensure you move on the date you choose. Learn more about arranging a personal property shipment.
• Get organized. Check out these pro packing tips from the Defense Personal Property Program, including creating a moving binder, making a photo inventory of your belongings and more.

Remember, you don’t have to do this all by yourself. There are resources and services to help you master your final move. Contact your installation Military and Family Support Center, or reach out to Military OneSource. Consultants are available 24/7/365 to answer your questions and connect you with the relocation support you need. Call 800-342-9647, use OCONUS dialing options, or schedule a live chat.