Have you ever made a PCS move during the off-season? There are a handful of military families who, instead of packing up during the summer, spend their winter months resisting hibernation to uproot and relocate instead.
Undoubtedly, summer military moves are far more common, but with a little information and a few key points to focus on, your off-season move to a new duty station will be a success. 
What makes off-season PCS moves so different?
The goodbyes.
During the mad PCS season rush in the late spring and early summer, yours is one of many families preparing for a military move. It’s much easier to remember that you’re not alone when you see other families also saying goodbye to their friends. And thankfully, you might not be the only one of your close-knit friends to say, “See ya later.”
During an off-season PCS, it’s more likely that you’re the only one leaving your friend circle. The support group you’ve relied on for years will remain intact, and saying goodbye to something like that induces feelings of loneliness.
The natural break.
Aside from the emotions of relocating, PCS moves often create excitement. With your kids out of school for the year, your PCS primes the family for a summer road trip. Plus, your children get to start the next school year at the same time as local kids, meaning they won't have to adjust to their new school in the middle of the year.
But when you receive orders to move outside the PCS season, you're moving during the typical fall and winter 'settling in' months. In the winter, people focus on staying warm and cozy. And come springtime, then you emerge and make up for the poor decisions your holiday-crazed self made. An off-season PCS could mean missing out on your holiday traditions and celebrations.
But since you have little control over when you move, it's essential to learn to embrace opportunities no matter the circumstances. And who knows? You may even learn to love your off-season PCS!
Now, let's explore the benefits of an off-season PCS move.
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1) Extended Holiday Vacation
Getting orders around the holidays often allows your military member to take leave and schedule extra time with the family. The military lifestyle can make visits to see family for the holidays difficult in an ordinary year, so take advantage of the opportunity to make time for your loved ones.
2) Lower Travel Costs
If you're moving after the New Year, you'll be one of a few on the road. As families tend to vacation in the spring and summer, hotel rates and airfare should be cheaper.
Not only is this good news for your budget, but it also means that your per diem may get you further, and you may even have the opportunity to pocket a portion of it.
3) Less Housing Competition
Since there shouldn't be many families moving to your next duty station at the same time as you, there will be less competition when looking for the perfect house. However, with fewer families leaving during this time of the year, your housing selection may be slim.
Start by looking for homes on MilitaryByOwner Advertising. Contact groups and families already in the area, and begin the house hunting process immediately. Due to less real estate activity, you might find that the owner, property manager, or real estate agent is eager to work with you, which could lead to lower prices and faster timelines.
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4) Moving Companies Are Less Busy
Movers are often easier to schedule during the winter months. The same goes for securing a moving truck. If you choose to do a Do It Yourself (DITY) or Personally Procured Move (PPM), you’ll find that securing a rental truck is far easier during the winter than the summer.
An off-season PCS might not be your first pick. But when you take the time to think about it, some things make a move this time of the year smoother than the summer months. The most important thing is to focus on the positives. And, when you’re ready, hop on MilitaryByOwner, where we’ll help you find your next place to call home, no matter the time of year!
