Your Comprehensive PCS Guide to Military Relocation to Robins Air Force Base.
Are you an active-duty service member preparing for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to or from Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Georgia? This guide is designed to help you navigate your Household Goods (HHG) move, understand Personally Procured Moves (PPM), and answer common military relocation questions to ensure a seamless transition.
**Please note: Regulations and policies can change. Always verify current procedures with your transportation office.**
Navigating Household Goods (HHG) and Personally Procured Moves (PPM).
Military relocations can be challenging, especially when dealing with HHG moves and PPMs. Here’s everything you need to know to handle a full PCS, whether you’re moving in or out of the Middle Georgia area.
I know military loves bullet points and getting to the point fast, so I wrote this in true military fashion…
If you prefer to watch the video, click below.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Smooth HHG Move
1. Contact Your TMO Office Immediately
Once you have your orders, reach out to your Transportation Management Office (TMO) as soon as possible, regardless of your departure date. Early communication ensures your HHG move goes smoothly. Your orders will have everything they need to start your move PCS move request. Reserve units can be especially troublesome getting orders on time.
Make sure you have orders and contact the transportation office at least three weeks before your preferred move date.
PCS scheduling hints
- Schedule #4000 per day (ex., #8000= one day pack, one day pack/load) for each shipment.
- To gauge household weight, A fully furnished room averages #1000.
- Do not schedule moves on the same day. It is too confusing having multiple moving companies at the same time.
- Unaccompanied Baggage (if applicable) should be scheduled first. If any items do not qualify, those items can go in HHG or NTS later.
- Do not schedule any other events during the scheduled move, including a real estate closing.
2. Understand Your Shipment Options
Your shipment type depends on your orders:
- Continental U.S. Moves (CONUS): Standard HHG move.
- Overseas Moves (Including Alaska and Hawaii – OCONUS): May include Unaccompanied Baggage and Non-Temporary Storage (NTS).
- PPM (DITY, full or partial) is an option for CONUS or OCONUS moves.
3. Prepare Your Home for the Move
- Take pictures of everything. Videos are even better. This proves the condition before it was moved.
- Don’t spend money on your move until after your orders are in hand. Otherwise, it will not be reimbursed.
- Clean and Dry Everything: Ensure all items, especially laundry and dishes, are clean and dry to prevent mold during transit.
- Separate Prohibited Items: Remove batteries from electronics and set aside aerosols, hazardous materials and liquids like ammonia, bleach, etc.
- Mark or remove anything not being packed.
- Gas-powered equipment must be wiped down, drained and run dry before pickup.
- Disconnect electronics, remove items from the walls.
- Remove items from the attic. Packers can only enter walk-in attics.
- Organize Valuables: Keep important documents, jewelry, passports, and personal items separate to prevent accidental packing.
4. Coordinate with the Moving Company
- Pre-Move Survey: The moving company should conduct you to do a survey to assess the weight and volume of your shipment.
- Special Items: Inform them about large or unusual items like pianos, gym equipment, antiques, or taxidermy that may require special handling.
- If the moving company does not make contact within a 7-10 days of your pickup date, contact the Transportation office.
5. During Packing and Loading
- Be Present: You or a designated person must be available throughout the process.
- Each box should have the member’s last name and a description of the box contents.
- Inventory Management: Ensure each item is labeled correctly, and existing damages are noted on the inventory sheet.
- Monitor Packing: Oversee how items are packed, especially fragile or valuable belongings. Don’t be afraid to ask for more packing. these are your items.
6. Delivery at Your New Base
- Temporary Storage (SIT): Civilians typically have 60 days of temporary storage; military members have 90 days.
- Contact the moving company (TSP) to schedule delivery from SIT.
- Check Inventory Upon Arrival: Verify items against your inventory list and report any discrepancies immediately.
- Take pictures of any damage. Claims are on the DPS website. This claim is separate from any form the movers give.
- Anything disassembled by the movers will be reassembled.
- Unpacking Services: You’re entitled to unpacking services and one-time placement of your items.
**Any issues, contact the Transportation office for a QA inspector.
Top 5 PCS Questions Answered
1. How Do I Prepare for an HHG Move?
Start by cleaning and organizing your belongings. Remove prohibited items, disconnect electronics, and ensure everything is ready for movers to prevent last-minute issues.
2. What Should I Do with Items I Don’t Want to Move?
Host a yard sale or donate items you no longer need to the “Airmen’s Attic”.
3. How Do I Handle Antiques and Valuables?
PCS moves only credit items as “antiques” if they are documented. Get antiques appraised before the move to document their value and age.
4. Can I Ship My Vehicle?
Check your orders for authorization to ship or store your vehicle. Coordinate with your TMO and visit pcsmypov.com for guidance. The transportation office will provide an authorization and shipment counseling letter.
** Make sure to get an authorization letter from your bank, before leaving, if you have a lien on your vehicle.
5. What Happens if I Need Temporary Storage?
Both military and civilian personnel are entitled to temporary storage at your new duty station. Coordinate with your moving company to arrange storage if necessary.
Exploring Off-Base Housing in Warner Robins
While base housing is available, many service members prefer the flexibility of off-base living. Warner Robins offers a variety of neighborhoods catering to military families, all within a short commute to Robins Air Force Base.
Watch our video to learn about Robins AFB housing options.
Understanding VA Home Loans
If homeownership is your goal, VA home loans offer significant benefits for service members and veterans. Connect with lenders specializing in VA loans to take advantage of these benefits.
Additional Resources for a Seamless Move
Understanding BAH Rates
- Navigate your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to find housing that fits your budget in Warner Robins.
- Temporary Lodging Options
- Find comfortable temporary accommodations near Robins Air Force Base while you settle in.
- Community Insights
- Get to know Warner Robins! Explore local parks, restaurants, shopping centers, and community events to feel at home.
Get Professional Real Estate Assistance
If you need assistance buying, selling, or renting a home near Robins Air Force Base, consider reaching out to a local real estate agent specializing in military relocation. They can provide expert guidance tailored to your unique needs.
Contact Information
Final Thoughts
This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in navigating your upcoming move. Preparation is key—from contacting your TMO early to ensuring your household goods are packed correctly, each step is crucial for a smooth transition.
For personalized assistance, consider reaching out to a local real estate agent who specializes in military relocation. They can help you every step of the way.