2 minute read
Checking Out
by MCCS Okinawa
Smooth Move Workshop
Once word of an upcoming Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is received, sign up for a Smooth Move Workshop at any MCCS Personal & Professional Development-Resources Center. At the workshop, travelers will learn about moving tips, available relocation services, travel and household goods entitlements and much more. Attending this workshop is recommended at least six months out from your projected transfer date. Orders are not required to sign up, so register today!
Arrange the Move
Active-duty service members may arrange shipment of personal property any time after receiving PCS orders. The earlier you call your transportation office, the greater the chances of moving on your desired date. During the peak summer moving season, a minimum of two-week’s notice is required. Marine Corps and Navy personnel, excluding Navy personnel assigned to Commander Fleet Activities Okinawa (CFAO), must use the Marine Corps Distribution Management Office (DMO) on Camp Foster.
CFAO Navy personnel are serviced by Kadena. DMO can answer questions and address problems affecting personal property prior to shipment and make necessary arrangements to schedule packing and pick-up of household goods. For more information, call 645-0922 (Camp Foster) or 632-0068 (Kadena AB). Limited satellite office support is available on Camp Courtney (622-7567) and Camp Hansen (623-7029).
Vehicle Deregistration
Active-duty service members who have no intention of selling their vehicle must deregister it. Car owners who do not properly dispose of their vehicles will be traced for all costs incurred including towing, deregistration and disposal. MCCS Typhoon Motors Auto Recovery Center will dispose of vehicles for FREE—including deregistration fees and disposal towing (for disposal towing, owners must complete disposal documents). All Japanese taxes and fees must be current. Vehicles must be registered to the owner. If not, a valid power of attorney is needed for deregistration. For more information, call 645-1799.
Before You Leave
Active-duty service members transitioning from the military in conjunction with a PCS move often have many questions and not enough answers. Fortunately, each installation on the island has a Transition Readiness Program to equip separating and retiring military members and their families with skills and knowledge for reentry into the private sector. Emphasis is placed on transition preparation rather than job placement. For more information about reporting procedures, travel planning, separation and more, contact the nearest MCCS Marine & Family Programs-Resources Center. Before preparing to leave, travelers should retain all important paperwork rather than pack it with household goods. Numbers for the OOD, Command Duty Office and your sponsor are invaluable in case of emergency. Also, the American Red Cross is always available for emergency aid.
