Spring might mean blooming flowers and warmer weather for most of America, but for military families, spring kicks off a different kind of season — PCS season. And let’s be honest, permanent change-of-station moves are about as relaxing as assembling furniture with no instructions, during a thunderstorm, while juggling kids and pets. Right?

PCS’ing is consistently ranked as one of the most stressful parts of military life. You’re uprooting your life, your routine and sometimes your sanity. But with the right plan and a few smart financial moves, you can turn the chaos into opportunity and maybe even come out ahead — or, at least, break even.

Here are four steps to help make your PCS smoother, smarter and less financially frustrating:

1. Get Very Cozy with Your Budget (Again)

Each PCS is a perfect time to revisit your budget. Moving costs, temporary lodging, fuel, meals on the road — it all adds up faster than a toddler in a toy aisle. While some expenses are reimbursable, many are not. Sit down and list out everything you might spend, from packing tape to pet boarding. Then compare that against your PCS entitlements and savings. I say “savings” because that’s money you have specifically set aside and earmarked for the thousands of dollars of out-of-pocket expenditures that are typically a part of the PCS process. And if you didn’t do it this time, start setting a little bit away now for your next move.

Don’t forget to budget for unexpected hiccups, such as when the movers show up three hours late or your car decides it wants a new radiator, midtrip. Flexibility and a buffer are your best financial friends during a PCS.

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2. Use Resources That Do the Heavy Lifting

You don’t have to go it alone. Use the official tools and resources available from Military OneSource to plan and manage your move. These include handy checklists, relocation tools and, of course, a whole bunch of moving tips.

Want to get the lowdown on your new location? Talk to your friends or your sponsor, or check out the base’s social media pages to learn about housing, schools and nearby services. These tools can help you make informed decisions — and maybe even avoid renting an apartment that looks great online but is actually sandwiched between a railroad crossing and a 24-hour chicken processing plant.

3. Review (and Update) Your Insurance

A PCS is a great time to check your coverages. Are your renters or homeowners policies updated to cover your new location? Is your auto insurance valid in your new state? Don’t forget to double-check your household goods insurance; some moving companies reimburse based on weight, not value. A renters policy could provide valuable protection if your property is lost or destroyed in transit. I was talking to a teammate of mine who recently witnessed such an incident at Fort Cavazos, Texas, when a fire burned down a warehouse filled with household goods in transit. It happens, so be protected.

And while you’re at it, make sure your life insurance and beneficiary designations are updated and in line with your current plan. Life moves fast, and a PCS is the perfect reminder to make sure your financial safety net is in good shape.

4. Declutter for Dollars

Moving is expensive, but it’s also a golden opportunity to downsize and earn some cash. If you haven’t used it since your last duty station, you might not need to pack it again.

Hold a yard sale, sell stuff online or donate and take the tax deduction. Less stuff means a lighter load, a simpler unpacking experience and potentially lower moving costs. Think of it as PCS minimalism — with a paycheck.

A Fresh Start, Every Time

It’s easy to focus on the hassle, but a PCS is also a fresh start — a clean slate for your home, your habits and, yes, even your finances. It’s a chance to reset your budget, refine your goals and build a financial plan that fits your new normal. When we left active duty, my wife often lamented the loss of this periodic renewal.

So as boxes pile up and countdown clocks tick away, remember: You’ve got this. And with a little planning, a few smart moves and maybe a well-timed coffee break, you can turn PCS season into a launchpad for financial progress.

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