The Fleet and Family Support Program's Relocation Assistance Program makes moves easier. The RAP staff at the Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) will assist you with all aspects of moving.
When you receive Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, you will have questions. Will there be housing on the installation? Will we want to live in it? What are the schools like? Do they have soccer? Will my spouse be able to get a job? Should we take both cars? How do we send the pets?
The FFSC can answer these questions, and more. Plan on attending a Smooth Move Workshop hosted by the FFSC. The Smooth Move Workshop will address move-related topics such as who pays what for your move, how to ship your personal property, and what the sponsorship program is.
The most important thing you can do to ensure a smooth move is to start planning early using the many Relocation Assistance Program services and tools.
Pre-Departure Briefings -- Called Smooth Move or PCS Briefings, you and your spouse will want to attend for sure. These briefings provide essential information that can prevent you from making uninformed and costly decisions before your move.
Individual PCS Planning -- the relocation programs offer one-on-one consultation for anyone needing assistance. In particular those making their first military move, first overseas move, or those with challenging and complex situations such as special needs family members or financial problems should call the Relocation Program for an appointment.
PCS basic moving information -- things you should know, types of shipments, what you should know BEFORE/AFTER your move, member responsibilities and Transportation Service Provider (TSP) responsibilities, moving tips and links.
Settling-in Services -- These may include welcome services, local area tours, or basic household items to use until your goods arrive. Overseas arrival services may include cultural awareness training and introductory language classes.
Workshops and Briefings -- The classes offered vary from installation to installation but you can generally find classes budgeting and finance, moving with children, general moving preparation and many other moving related topics.
Loan Closet -- Basic household goods items are available to borrow while waiting for your personal property pre-departure or upon arrival. The typical items in stock include: pots and pans, dishes, silverware, irons, ironing boards, futons or inflatable mattress. Generally, towels and bed linens are not available, so these should be packed in your hold baggage.
Sponsorship - If you haven't been assigned a Sponsor yet please request a Sponsor from your gaining command. Your Sponsor will be your eyes and ears and will assist in a smooth transition.
Planning and preparation, as well as a sense of humor and positive attitude, have been proven to be sure-fire stress reducers when moving. Your FFSC Relocation Assistance Program has everything you need to make your move easier so give them a call or stop by for assistance.