The Smooth Move Workshop is a seminar geared to provide information and resources, to individuals and family members departing Okinawa to ensure a seamless move occurs.
A wide variety of presenters provide pre-departure and destination information to include: moving tips, financial preparation, relocation and travel entitlements, and base and community referral assistance. It is recommend you attend the workshop five to six months before your rotation date, said Dave Randle, Relocation Assistance Program Analyst, Personal Services Center, Marine Corps Community Services. Orders are not required, he added.
Marine Corps Bases Japan Order 1754.1D states, "Ensure outbound transferring personnel, to include family members, attend a mandatory relocation ‘Smooth Move' permanent change of station workshop at least 60 days prior to transfer."
The key to a smooth move is planning, and the earlier you attend the workshop the more time you have to use the information learned, Randle said.
Here are some of the topics covered in the Smooth Move Workshop.
Information is covered on clearing your off-base quarters, vacating on-base family housing (Preliminary and Final Inspection), scheduling government furniture for pick-up and advance applications for housing.
They also provide married service members living in the barracks with information about housing at their next duty station.
Information on pay entitlements like temporary lodging allowance, dislocation allowance, mileage allowance in lieu of transportation and temporary lodging entitlements are explained.
Information on contingency plans, practical financial management tips while preparing for the move, money on the move (lodging, groceries, clothing, childcare, school, spouse employment and housing [Rent/Buy]), credit reports, car buying and home buying are factored into the moving process.
Information is provided on the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, transferring enrollment, split enrollment, coverage while traveling and who is a Tricare provider.
Information is covered on arranging for the move, basic facts on shipping household goods and unaccompanied baggage, what you may and may not ship as household goods, professional books, paper and equipment, firearm storage, full replacement value, yours and the carrier's responsibilities before the move and at the new destination, shipping a privately owned vehicle and claims.
"If you don't take care of everyone's stress, it boils over," Randle said. "The more time you take to plan, the less stressful (the move) will be."
For more information on registering for the Smooth Move Workshop call 645-8395.