Moving is always a hectic and stressful experience, but few can compare to the complexity and challenges of military moves. Frequent relocations are a common part of military life, making it crucial for military personnel and their families to have easy and efficient resources at their disposal. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to assist with smooth military moves, ensuring that the transition to a new location is as seamless as possible.

One of the most valuable resources for military personnel during a move is the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS is an online portal that allows military members to manage and track their household goods shipments and storage. Through DPS, service members can schedule and coordinate their moves, select moving companies, and keep track of their belongings during the entire process. This centralized system not only streamlines the relocation process but also provides transparency and accountability, ensuring that military personnel have control over their moves.

Another valuable resource for military moves is the Military OneSource website. This website serves as a one-stop-shop for military families, providing a wealth of information and resources to assist with various aspects of the move. From checklists and planning tools to information on housing, schools, and local communities, Military OneSource covers all the essential elements involved in a military move. It also offers personalized moving assistance and guidance through its 24/7 helpline, allowing military members and their families to address any concerns or uncertainties they may have.

For military families with school-age children, the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children is an indispensable resource. This compact ensures that children of military families have a smooth transition when changing schools due to relocation. It requires schools to simplify enrollment processes, waive educational prerequisites, and make accommodations for children with special needs, among other provisions. By facilitating seamless educational transitions, the compact significantly reduces the stress and disruption military children often face during moves.

The Armed Forces Recreation Centers (AFRC) are another valuable resource for military families during a move. These centers, located worldwide, provide military personnel and their families with low-cost vacation opportunities and temporary lodging during their moves. AFRC facilities offer comfortable accommodations, recreation activities, and amenities such as pools, fitness centers, and restaurants. These centers not only provide a much-needed break during a move but also offer a chance for military families to connect with others going through similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and support.

Lastly, military members can also benefit from the resources provided by their branch of service. Each military branch has its own relocation assistance programs, such as Army Community Service or Airman and Family Readiness Center. These programs offer relocation assistance workshops, counseling services, and access to a network of support professionals who can help with various aspects of a military move. They often provide valuable information tailored to each branch’s specific needs and requirements, making the moving process smoother and more manageable.

Overall, military moves can be challenging, but with the help of these easy and efficient resources, the process can become significantly smoother. From online portals like DPS to comprehensive websites like Military OneSource, military families have access to an array of valuable tools and information to ensure their moves are successful. By utilizing these resources, military personnel can focus more on their new assignments and less on the logistics of relocation, ultimately allowing them to settle into their new homes more quickly and easily.