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Peak Season Moving Tips

  • Published
  • Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The large number of families moving here this summer and fall are personally experiencing the challenges facing the moving industry across the country.

With more than 500 inbound Air Force Global Strike Command personnel adding to the normal peak summer moving season, Airmen are relocating to Barksdale in the midst of a moving industry crunch. Department of Defense officials say there are 10 percent more military families moving this year, but 20 percent fewer moving companies to move them.

"We do anything we can to help our people," says Ms. Shelley Cohen, chief of personal property, 2d Logistics and Readiness Squadron here.

Ms. Cohen says all military traffic management offices offer pre-move counseling sessions as well as pamphlets and handouts which contain helpful moving tips and strategies.

"Planning and flexibility are the keys to success," says Chief Master Sgt. David Wynes, the Command's traffic management functional manager. "This is not limited to a local phenomenon, but circumstances are making for a stressful situation for individuals inbound to Barksdale."

Following the established process, double-checking and reconfirming appointments with private moving companies and offering alternative pick-up and move-in dates to moving companies will help start relocation off right, Chief Wynes said.

To start the process, orders for relocation should be turned in to the nearest local travel management office 30 days prior to a desired move date, he said.

Finally, unit sponsors are a key component of the moving process and can help inform inbound personnel of the steps they can take to minimize frustrations, Chief Wynes said.

"Though moves can sometimes be frustrating, having a sponsor who takes the time to lead their colleague through the process can lessen the impact and, ultimately, lead to a positive PCS experience," the chief said.

For example, Master Sgt. Corey Clements said he had trouble finding housing, however, his sponsor provided excellent assistance and helped him find temporary lodging.

He said his Global Strike Command sponsor was with him every step of the way during his PCS, from orders to arrival, which made him feel welcome and comfortable at Barksdale.

"After my housing issues were resolved, I felt that I could stop worrying about things at home, and focus my efforts on my job at the Command," Sergeant Clements said.