Preparation makes PCS season easier

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jason Riggins
  • 377th Logistics Readiness Squadron
Kirtland Air Force Base --  This summer promises to be a very busy moving season for Airmen on permanent change of station orders.
You can help alleviate any potential loss or damage to your household goods by learning the rules under which your household goods are moved and by preparing yourself for a potential moving claim.
You should take stock of what you own and its condition prior to your transportation service provider stepping foot into your home. Take digital photos or a video of high value items, family heirlooms and also consider keeping such items in your possession during your move.
Having a professional appraisal done on any antique furniture is also a good idea, not just for any potential moving claims, but also in case you suffer a home fire or theft.
A professional appraisal establishes the value of the item and can be used in the claims process to help establish any loss in value should the item arrive damaged from the move. When your goods are packed up by the Transportation Service Processor, some of your high value items may be placed on the high value/high risk inventory.
This special inventory supplements your household goods inventory and is used by the TSP to protect these high value items. There are very specific rules regarding the use of this special inventory, and you should inquire with your TSP or the Air Force claims service center regarding these rules.
Finally, although members are not prohibited from shipping currency and jewelry, the AFCSC strongly discourages this and recommends members move these items personally.
Damage does occur. If your belongings suffer damage, you should be aware that your property is covered under the provisions of the Full Replacement Value legislation enacted by Congress in 2006.
This means that TSPs are required to pay the full replacement value on any items missing or destroyed during your move or replace the item. TSPs are also required to repair any item that can be repaired. They are also responsible for contacting a repair firm.
The FRV program is an important benefit for Airmen and comes with some changes to the process that you may not be aware of.
First, most Airmen will be required to use the Defense Personal Property System for the claims process. DPS can be accessed online at www.move.mil. Also, the FRV program requires Airmen to deal more directly with the TSP.
For example, the Loss/Damage Report that lists damages and losses Airmen discover after the TSP has completed delivery goes directly to the TSP through DPS.
(If DPS is not available for your move, you can also file your Loss/Damage Report through the AFCSC website at https://claims.jag.af.mil.) Remember that filing a loss/ damage report is not the same as filing a claim.
The loss/damage report simply puts the carrier on notice that an Airman has discovered additional damage or loss since delivery.
The loss/damage report must be received by the carrier within 75 days of delivery. Failure to meet the 75 day deadline could result in no reimbursement for loss or damage to those items not noted at delivery.
For more information, call DSN 986-8044 or 877-754-1212 or email afcsc.ja@wpafb.af.mil.