Smooth Moves: A Guide for Military Families Relocating to Barksdale AFB with Shield Storage
Military Families Moving to Barksdale AFB & Storage Solutions at Shield Storage Centers
1. Welcome to Barksdale AFB & the Local Area
Barksdale Air Force Base, located in Bossier City, Louisiana, is home to the 2nd Bomb Wing and several other critical Air Force units Wikipedia. The Newcomer Guide highlights the base's strong ties to the surrounding communities of Shreveport and Bossier, plus recreational offerings—from fishing and hunting to Cajun cuisine and cultural events barksdale.af.mil.
Families moving here can tap into personalized support from the Military Family Housing Office (MHO), including housing allowances (BAH) and referrals to suitable neighborhoods Housing AF. The base-based Traffic Management Office (TMO) assists with household goods shipment or storage for up to 90 days if needed barksdale.af.mil.
The Relocation Assistance Program is also available to help families smoothly transition to life at Barksdale Military OneSource.
2. Moving Day Made Easier: Tips from PCS Pros
- Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) early to schedule your belongings—especially after receiving your PCS orders Military OneSource.
- Storage between moves is allowed—TMO authorizes up to 90 days of storage if you prefer not to ship directly home barksdale.af.mil.
- If your family includes a special needs member, the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) offers tailored support and planning tools (like SCORs and “Plan My Move”) to help manage the transition Military OneSource.
Real-world wisdom from military spouses and service members:
“Let the military movers take your bulky stuff and pack anything you'll need for 6–8 weeks after arriving at the new base.” Reddit
“Also, not a secret but don't forget your weight tickets. Empty and full!” Reddit
3. Storage Spotlight: Shield Storage Centers – Stockwell Road
When your cleanout or transition needs go beyond temporary TMO storage, Shield Storage Centers on Stockwell Road offers a safe, convenient, and flexible option:
- Location: 601 Stockwell Rd, Bossier City, LA 71111—just a short hop off I-220 and easy access to/from Barksdale AFB Shield Storage Centersgrandstoneis.com.
- Facility Highlights:
- Climate-controlled units, electronic smart locks, video surveillance, and fire sprinkler systems, ideal for safeguarding furniture, electronics, and personal belongings Shield Storage Centers.
- Unit sizes and pricing:
- Starting as compact as 5'×5' from about $48–$49/month
- Medium units around 10'×10' begin at $87/month
- Larger units (10'×20' and up) from $162/month Shield Storage CentersRentCafe.
These features give peace of mind during transitions—whether you're in temporary housing, renovating your home, or simply need an orderly staging area during a move.
4. Why Shield Storage Works for Barksdale Families
BenefitWhy It MattersProximityQuick trips to base for delivery or retrieval—no long hauls requiredSecurity & Climate ControlKeeps high-value or temperature-sensitive items safe (soldiers know heat and humidity in Louisiana are real concerns!)Flexible Wraparound PricingAffordable pricing tiers give families options regardless of session length or inventory sizeEase of UseOnline rentals, smart locks, and card-based payment make the process hassle-free
5. Putting It All Together: A Sample Move Plan
- Begin PCS Process
- Use DPS to arrange shipment and see what your household goods (HHG) benefits include.
- TMO can store up to 90 days if your housing isn’t ready or you're in interim quarters Military OneSourcebarksdale.af.mil.
- Contact Relocation and Housing Offices
- Connect with MHO for housing referrals and BAH guidance Housing AF.
- Use Relocation Assistance for school info, neighborhood options, and community integration Military OneSource.
- Prepare Essentials for Travel
- Pack what you’ll need immediately upon arrival separately—families often suggest keeping supplies for 6–8 weeks with you Reddit.
- Keep weight tickets from your vehicle load/unload to ensure PCS reimbursements Reddit.
- Use Shield Storage as Needed
- When awaiting permanent housing or sorting inventory, rent a suitably sized unit at Stockwell Road.
- Climate control ensures sensitive or seasonal items stay safe.
- Set Up Life in Bossier City
- Explore neighborhoods like North/South Bossier, Benton, or Haughton, which military families frequently recommend Reddit+1.
- Engage with community resources, events, and relocation programs to ease the adjustment barksdale.af.milHousing AFMilitary OneSource.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Barksdale AFB comes with its share of logistics, but with the right approach it can be a smooth transition for your family. TMO, relocation services, and resources like EFMP are there to assist. And facilities like Shield Storage Centers on Stockwell Road provide reliable storage solutions—keeping your personal life steady while you settle in.
Would you like help exploring neighborhoods, schools, or local amenities near Bossier City for your family?
