Executing your summer move

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Kathleen Finnegan
  • 14th Student Squadron
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  June is here and for many it is a time to say goodbye and PCS. Moving can be stressful and while the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is in place to make the move easier, there is no guarantee that things will go as planned. Unfortunately, property damage can occur and can be frustrating, but there is a claims process in place that allows for full reimbursement for lost or damaged household goods.

Here are the Facts:
1.) In order to receive Full Reimbursement Value (FRV) for lost or damaged goods, fill out DD Form 1840R (pink form) within 75 days of the delivery from your Transportation Service Provider (TSP). You also need to place a claim with the TSP within nine months of your delivery, (separate from DD Form 1840R). You may fill out the form in DPS (https://www.move.mil) by logging in and selecting the "Claims" tab. When sending the claim, it is recommended to get a return receipt for proof of delivery. You will need to provide proof of value for the item. For items of high value or importance, such as antiques, it is a good idea to get them appraised before the move in the event something should happen. You may also want to take photos of these same items. If the item is damaged, the carrier can request you get estimates for repair, get their own estimates or repair it themselves. If there is a charge associated with the estimate, that can be filed as a separate claim.
 
They will also ask for photos of the damage, which is why taking photos before the move is helpful. If the item cannot be repaired or repair costs exceed the cost of a new item, you will receive reimbursement to purchase a new item. You must have a written statement from a repairman stating the item is not repairable. Do not throw the item away without coordinating with your carrier first! They may want to inspect it themselves.

2.) You may be entitled to a Quick Claims settlement if the damage is less than $500. This will be at the discretion of the TSP and will take five days to complete.

3.) You should get a response within 60 days of placing your claim. The TSP will either pay, deny or make an offer for your lost or damaged goods. They will pay to replace it with a new item or a used item based on its value.

4.) If you agree to their offer, you sign a legal release to receive the money. You should receive a receipt from the TSP within 30 days of submitting your agreement.

5.) If you do not agree to their offer, you can file with the Air Force Claims Service Center who will pay you the appropriate amount and try to receive the FRV from the TSP. If the Center collects more than you were paid, they will return the money to you within six months.

There are two deadlines you have to keep in mind in order to receive FRV! Form DD Form 1840R must be filled out within 75 days of the delivery. Your claim must be placed with the carrier within nine months of the delivery. Miss these deadlines and you will lose entitlements to reimbursement! For more information, please visit the Air Force Claims Service Center at https://claims.jag.af.mil or call (877) 754-1212. Go to the frequently asked questions section for more detailed questions and answers.