PCS Checklist for Moving to Norfolk, VA

Before the Move:

1. Receive PCS Orders: Ensure you have received official PCS orders to Norfolk, VA. The most common local bases are NS Norfolk, NS Oceana, NSA Chesapeake, or Little Creek.

2. Create a PCS Binder: Organize all important documents, including orders and receipts, in a binder or folder.

3. Financial Planning: - Review your entitlements based on the move to Norfolk. - Set up your travel advance if needed.

4. Housing: - Contact the housing office at your current location to initiate the housing transfer process. - Research housing options in Norfolk, both on and off-base. See our helpful links page for recommended realtors: https://www.pcstonorfolkva.com/helpful-links Make sure to schedule a deep clean and even get some extra hands to help with your move in at https://maxiemaids.com/

5. Packing and Moving: - Contact the transportation office to schedule your move to Norfolk. - Decide whether you'll use the military's Household Goods (HHG) services or Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). Norfolk PPM: https://installations.militaryonesource.mil/military-installation/naval-station-norfolk/moving/household-goods

Medical and Records:

6. Medical and Dental Records: - Request copies of medical and dental records for your family.

7. School Records: - Notify your children's schools and arrange for the transfer of their records to Norfolk. Norfolk school district page: https://www.npsk12.com/

Vehicle and Pets:

8. Vehicle Transportation: - Determine whether you'll ship your vehicle(s) or drive them to Norfolk. The drive to Norfolk is easy from all over the country due to I-264 cutting right through Norfolk.

9. Pets: - Arrange for the transportation of your pets and ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date.

Utilities and Services:

10. Utilities: - Cancel or transfer utilities at your current residence. - Set up utilities at your new home in Norfolk. Dominion Energy and Spectrum cable are the most common in the area.

11. Insurance: - Update your auto and renters/homeowners insurance with your new address in Norfolk.

Legal and Financial:

12. Legal Documents: - Update your will, powers of attorney, and other legal documents as necessary. Remember that this can be done for free on base! Never pay for these services.

13. Financial Institutions: - Notify your bank and other financial institutions of your change of address.

Change of Address:

14. USPS and Official Organizations: - Update your mailing address with the USPS. - Notify official organizations, such as the DMV and IRS, of your new address. Ideally you should get your mail forwarded to your new address in Norfolk.

Travel Arrangements:

15. Flights or Driving: - Book flights if you're flying to Norfolk. ORF is a great airport. See out helpful links tabs to see the numerous nonstop flights available. - Plan your route if you're driving.

Lodging at New Location:

16. Temporary Lodging: - Book temporary lodging in Norfolk if needed for your arrival.

Personal Belongings:

17. Essentials Box: - Pack a box of essentials you'll need immediately upon arrival in Norfolk.

Local Information:

18. Research Norfolk: - Familiarize yourself with the local area, including schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational activities. This site is a great place to start!

Final Check:

19. Final Check: - Conduct a final walkthrough of your current residence to ensure everything is in order before departing. Remember that PCS moves can be complex, so staying organized and following this checklist will help make your transition to Norfolk, VA as smooth as possible.