Packing up the family for a move can be stressful at the best of times, but moving to an entirely new climate can bring some different challenges to the table. Moving to Alaska is a process that can bring a lot of good to you, your family, and your country. At Golden North Van Lines, we want to make sure that your military relocation goes as smoothly as possible so that the impact on your family is minimized. To prepare for your journey, there are a number of important elements to consider to ensure that you can adjust to life in the north as easily as possible.
How Will You Travel?
To compile your travel plan you’ll need to decide the best way to move you and your family depending on your current location. If you plan to drive, you’ll want to ensure that each of your family members has a current passport as you’ll be crossing through Canada on your route. If flying is more your style, you may want to look into vehicle shipping options so that you can hit the ground with old faithful by your side.
How Long Will Relocation Take?
This depends on where you’re located and what you plan to bring with you. You should begin the moving process as early as possible so that when the day comes, you have everything in order and ready to go. Plan your land route in advance so that you can anticipate stopping points and calculate your daily mileage. Be sure to take weather into account, and monitor any climatic changes as your departure date draws near. The last thing you want is to show up late, right?
Braving the Cold
The further north you go, the less predictable the weather will be. It isn’t uncommon for Calgary, Canada to have an impromptu snowfall, even in August! Be sure to pack clothing that is suitable for all seasons, including rain, snow, and more mild weather. If your car is in need of service, make sure that all recommended maintenance is performed in advance of your trip.
Military Entitlements
Understanding what entitlements you’ll have along the way will help to ensure a smoother journey. The Department of Defense provides various allowances for military relocation including meals, accommodations, mileage costs, shipping costs, and more. These should be factored into your travel plan so that you know where your responsibilities begin and end.
Federal Regulations
The DoD considers a move to Alaska to be an OCONUS move, which means that there may be more regulations in terms of what you can take with you. You should take the time to familiarize yourself with regulations regarding vehicle shipping, weight restrictions, long-term storage, etc. so that you can make decisions on how your personal property will be packed and shipped.
Golden North Van Lines Can Help
We see a lot of military relocation at Golden North Van Lines, and we understand how the process works. Our goal is to provide you with support for each step of your military relocation journey and ensure that you and your family are cared for during the process. Our staff are equipped to answer just about any question you could throw our way, and we welcome you to contact us to plan your upcoming move.