Tips for a successful moving day Published April 3, 2008 By tips provided by the 52nd Logistics Readiness Squadron SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- As summer approaches Sabers are beginning to make their warm weather "to do" lists. If a permanent change of station move is on the list, there are three easy things to do to make it go off without a hitch. By planning ahead, remaining flexible and having a good understanding of the moving process, an upcoming PCS will be a walk in the park. Summer is the peak PCS Season, making it the busiest time of the year for the 52nd Logistics Readiness Traffic Management Office. The earlier people initiate the moving process with TMO, the more likely they are to avoid the added pressures of last minute problems. Here are a few quick tips to guide in planning and preparing for a move. Mark the calendar As movers begin marking their calendar with PCS - related dates, flexibility is key. During peak season, April to mid-September, the Air Force floods the carrier industry with a tremendous demand causing the last days of the month to book up first. Because of this officials recommend that people do not turn off utilities until after property has been scheduled for pick up. In addition, people should contact TMO as soon as their orders are cut to help reserve desired dates. Know weights and dates TMO needs weights and dates to setup an appointment to complete the shipment application and brief entitlements, PCS shipment options and moving procedures. TMO requires estimated weights - "ball park" about 1,000 pounds per room -- for all projected shipments. In addition, TMO needs primary and alternate pack/pickup dates in case the company cannot fulfill the first request. Finally, officials recommend personal property shipments be booked before acquiring airline travel with Passenger Travel/SATO. While a PCS move can be challenging, it can also be gratifying, it can also be as everyone takes an active part in the moving process. It all begins with a visit to the TMO/Personal Property Shipping Office as soon as PCS orders are published. Note that orders are required before TMO can schedule any moving services. For more information, visit TMO in building 103, call 452-6068 or visit http://afmove.hq.af.mil. Important Hints to Help You along the Way Weeks/days before move * Dispose of unnecessary items to prevent being overweight. One way to get rid of unnecessary items is to do a garage sale. * Discard unauthorized items, such as hazardous items. TMO can provide a list of these items. * Do not include items in shipments that you obtained for personal businesses; i.e., Pampered Chef, Avon, Tupperware, etc. * Sometime before the move, a company representative will contact you to accomplish a pre-move survey. This survey is necessary so the company can visit and observe your household goods items. This will help them to prepare the material/equipment needed to service your move. * Keep in mind, a pre-move survey can also be accomplished over the phone depending on the estimated weight of your household goods. TMO can clarify this requirement. * Prepare your house for packing. Your residence must be clean and orderly. No dirty dishes/clothing, clutter, or unsanitary conditions from pets or pest infestations. Should these conditions exist, you will need to correct the problem. If moving date(s) are rescheduled, you may incur an attempted pick-up charge. * Remove items from small spaces and attics. Movers are not required to go into this "unfinished" rooms * If you are shipping appliances, i.e. washer, dryer, fridge or freezer, items should be empty, defrosted, and dry. * Disconnect and prepare all electrical components for the move. Original boxes in good condition can be provided to the moving agent for reuse. * Segregate your professional books, papers, and equipment (PBP&E) so that the item are packed and marked separately. It is your responsibility to identify PBP&E. * Separate items scheduled for other shipments. * Items not intended for shipment, such as important documents (passports and airline tickets), jewelry, coins, small pets, etc., should be placed in an area not accessible to the local agent. * Be prepared for your agricultural inspection. All outdoor items must be free from soil and pest infestation prior to shipment. * Items containing oil and/or gas must be drained and purged. * Lastly, when possible, use a video or digital camera to record the condition of your personal property; preferably with a date stamp. Day of move * Get up early; a hearty breakfast will help you cope with this much anticipated day * You or your designated agent is required to be available at the residence 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. * During peak season, expect moving agent to stay past 5 p.m. to finish a job. * Place pets in a secure area. * Clear walkways of snow, ice, and other hazards. * Monitor the wrapping and packing of your items. * Moving personnel are allowed a break(s) during the course of the job; you should also take this opportunity to rest as well * Although not required, you can offer the crew a refreshment * Before signing the inventory at the end of the day, check it for accuracy. If you disagree with a description, you have the right to disagree and note it in the "remarks section" * Before the moving agent leaves, make sure all items you want shipped have been pack and loaded on the truck or shipping crates. Once the carrier leaves, they are not required to return for forgotten items. Should you encounter any problems or have questions regarding your move, contact the Traffic Management Office/Quality Control at DSN 465-6027 or 06565616027.