Moving can be a stressful experience, especially for military personnel and their families who frequently relocate due to Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, deployments, or retirement. The Fort Moore Transportation Office (formerly Fort Benning Transportation Office) is dedicated to streamlining this process and providing expert assistance for all your personal property shipping and storage needs. This guide addresses frequently asked questions to help you navigate your move with ease and confidence.
Outbound Personal Property FAQs from Fort Moore
Moving away from Fort Moore? Here are common questions regarding outbound personal property shipments to help you plan your departure smoothly:
Utilizing Your Orders After Leaving Fort Moore
Question: I plan on staying in the local Fort Moore area for a while after my military service ends. How long do I have to use my separation or retirement orders for moving my personal property?
Answer: The timeframe for utilizing your orders depends on the type of orders you receive:
- ETS Orders (Enlisted Term of Service): If you are separating from the military (ETS), you have six months from your date of separation to initiate your move to your Home of Record (HOR) or Place of Entry into Active Duty, or to a location of equal distance.
- Retirement Orders: If you are retiring from military service, you are authorized one year from your retirement date to utilize your move to your Home of Selection within the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii.
Extending Your Move Timeframe After Retirement
Question: I have recently retired from Fort Moore but won’t be ready to move within the one-year timeframe. Can this time limit be extended?
Answer: Yes, under certain circumstances, an extension to the standard timeframe may be authorized. According to the Joint Federal Travel Regulation (JFTR) paragraph U5012I, you can submit a written time limit extension request to the Fort Moore Transportation Office. This request must include a detailed explanation of the circumstances justifying the need for an extension. It’s important to note that extensions, if granted, cannot exceed a total of six years from your date of retirement. Contact the Fort Moore Transportation Office as soon as possible if you anticipate needing an extension.
Household Goods Pickup Timeframes at Fort Moore
Question: How much advance notice does the Fort Moore Transportation Office need to arrange for my household goods to be picked up?
Answer: The lead time required for household goods pickup varies depending on the time of year, specifically the shipping season:
- Non-Peak Season (September – April): During the non-peak shipping season, generally 5 working days’ notice is sufficient to arrange for the pickup of your household goods and unaccompanied baggage.
- Peak Season (May – September): The peak moving season is considerably busier. It’s possible that moving carriers are booked up to 20 days in advance during this period.
Therefore, it is crucial to contact the Fort Moore Transportation Office immediately upon receiving your orders, especially if you are moving during the peak season. While the office will make every effort to accommodate your desired dates, availability ultimately depends on the schedules of the moving industry. Early contact significantly increases the chances of securing your preferred pickup dates.
Moving Family and Household Goods on TCS Orders
Question: I have Temporary Change of Station (TCS) orders and will be deploying soon. Can I move my family back to my home of record and ship my household goods at government expense while I am deployed?
Answer: No, movement of household goods and dependents at government expense is primarily authorized for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. Full PCS entitlements, including the shipment of household goods and dependent relocation, do not apply to Temporary Change of Station (TCS) orders. TCS orders are for temporary duty, and typically do not include relocation benefits to the same extent as PCS orders.
Storage Options for Household Goods During TCS Orders
Question: I have TCS orders and will be deploying soon. Can I put my household goods in storage at government expense while on TCS?
Answer: Yes, special storage of Household Goods (HHG) in connection with TCS orders is authorized for specific categories of service members:
- Single Soldiers: This applies to both Regular Active Duty and Reserve Component (RC) single soldiers.
- Dual Military Couples (Both Deploying): When both members of a married military couple are deployed simultaneously.
- Dual Military Couples (Different Duty Stations): When service members are married to each other but reside at different permanent duty stations.
- Single Parents with Childcare Plans: For single parents who have a childcare plan that necessitates their dependent children leaving their residence during deployment.
If you fall into one of these categories and have TCS orders and are deploying, contact the Fort Moore Transportation Office to arrange for the storage of your household goods.
Shipping Spouse’s Property to Fort Moore
Question: I recently got married and would like to ship my spouse’s personal property to Fort Moore. Am I authorized to ship their property at government expense?
Answer: Generally, the authorization for shipping personal property at government expense is limited to your property acquired prior to the effective date of your orders to Fort Moore, GA. Property acquired by your spouse or acquired by you after your report date to Fort Moore is typically not authorized for shipment at government expense until you receive new Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. There might be exceptions in specific circumstances, so it’s always best to clarify your situation with the Fort Moore Transportation Office directly.
Reshipping Property After Assignment Cancellation
Question: I recently shipped my household goods to Germany, but my assignment has been revoked (deleted). How do I get my property back from Germany to Fort Moore?
Answer: Based on your Revocation orders, you are entitled to have your property reshipped back to your previous duty station, which in this case would be Fort Moore.
- Property in Transit: Contact the Inbound Section of the Fort Moore Transportation Office immediately to initiate the reshipment process.
- Property in Non-Temporary Storage (NTS): If your property was placed in non-temporary storage while at Fort Moore prior to shipment to Germany, you have 90 days from the date of your revocation orders to arrange for its removal from storage. Contact the Outbound Section of the Fort Moore Transportation Office if you placed your property in NTS at Fort Moore.
Do-It-Yourself (DITY) Moves at Fort Moore
Considering a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move when departing from or arriving at Fort Moore? Here are answers to common questions about DITY moves:
Arranging and Estimating Payment for DITY Moves
Question: I am considering moving my own property to my next duty station. How do I arrange a DITY move with the Fort Moore Transportation Office, and how can I estimate my potential earnings?
Answer: To arrange a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move through the Fort Moore Transportation Office, follow these steps:
- Visit the Transportation Office: Come to the Transportation office with four copies of your PCS orders.
- Attend a DITY Briefing: You will be required to attend a DITY briefing. This briefing provides essential information about the DITY move process, requirements, and documentation.
- Document Pickup: After the briefing, return to the office to collect the necessary documents to settle your move. These documents will also provide you with an estimated dollar amount for your DITY move.
The financial incentive for a DITY move is calculated as 95% of the Government’s Constructed Cost (GCC), which is the estimated cost the government would incur if they arranged the move through a commercial moving company.
DITY Move Settlement Payment Timeframe
Question: How long does it typically take to receive my DITY settlement payment after I complete my DITY move and submit all required documents to the Fort Moore Transportation Office?
Answer: You should generally expect to receive your DITY settlement payment no later than 30 days after you have completed your move and submitted all the required documentation to the Fort Moore Transportation Office. Keep in mind that DITY move settlements are subject to taxation. 28% of the settlement amount will be taxed.
Mileage Reimbursement for DITY Moves
Question: Do I receive mileage reimbursement in addition to the DITY settlement payment for a DITY move?
Answer: No, you do not receive separate mileage reimbursement directly through the DITY move settlement. Mileage reimbursement for your travel to your new duty station is processed by finance as part of your Travel Pay and Allowances, not through the Transportation Office.
Coverage of Food and Lodging Expenses During DITY Moves
Question: Are my food and lodging expenses during my DITY move covered by the DITY move settlement?
Answer: No, similar to mileage, expenses for food and lodging incurred during your DITY move are not covered under the DITY move settlement itself. These expenses are also processed separately by finance as part of your Travel Pay and Allowances.
Obtaining Weight Tickets for DITY Moves
Question: Where can I obtain certified weight tickets for my DITY move, which are required for settlement?
Answer: You can obtain certified weight tickets from any state-certified weighing station. These are commonly found at:
- Truck Stops: Most truck stops are equipped with certified scales.
- Moving and Storage Companies: Many moving and storage companies also have certified weighing stations.
Ensure the weight tickets are certified and include both your empty and loaded vehicle weights, as these are crucial for your DITY move settlement.
Combining DITY and Government Moves
Question: Can I perform a partial DITY move, moving some of my property myself, and have the government move the remainder of my household goods?
Answer: Yes, you are authorized to perform a combination of a DITY move and a government-arranged move. This allows you to move some of your belongings yourself and have the government handle the shipment of the rest. However, the total weight of property moved by both methods cannot exceed your authorized weight allowance based on your rank and dependent status. Coordinate with the Fort Moore Transportation Office to ensure your move is properly documented and within weight limits.
Inbound Personal Property to Fort Moore
Arriving at Fort Moore and expecting a household goods shipment? Here are common inbound personal property questions:
Tracking Your Shipment to Fort Moore
Question: I shipped property to Fort Moore. How will I be notified when my shipment arrives?
Answer: Upon your arrival at Fort Moore, it is proactive to immediately contact the Inbound Personal Property Section of the Fort Moore Transportation Office.
Contact Information:
- Inbound Personal Property Section, Transportation Branch
- Telephone: 706-545-4900
When you contact them:
- Inbound Shipment Arrived: If your shipment has arrived, you will receive instructions on how to schedule a delivery appointment.
- Inbound Shipment Not Yet Arrived: If your property has not yet arrived, the office will take your contact information and will contact you immediately as soon as your shipment arrives at Fort Moore.
Shipping Property from a Previous Location to Fort Moore
Question: I just PCS’d to Fort Moore and have personal property either in government storage at another installation or at a residence/private storage location. How can I arrange to have it shipped to Fort Moore?
Answer: The process for shipping property to Fort Moore depends on where your property is currently located:
- Property in Government Storage at Another Installation: Contact the Inbound Personal Property Section at Fort Moore Transportation Office. You will need to provide your PCS orders and a request for shipment. The Inbound section will then process a shipment request to the installation where your property is stored. You will need to visit the Inbound section in person to initiate these arrangements.
- Property at a Residence or Private Storage at Another Location: Contact the Outbound Personal Property Section at the Fort Moore Transportation Office. Bring copies of your PCS orders assigning you to Fort Moore. If this is your first duty station, also bring your MEPS orders or Enlistment Contract. An Outbound Counselor will assist you in completing the necessary documentation to have your property shipped to Fort Moore.
Extending Temporary Storage of Inbound Property
Question: My property shipped to Fort Moore is currently in Temporary Storage (TS). The 90-day storage period is about to expire, and I am having a house built. How can I get the storage extended?
Answer: Contact the Inbound Personal Property Section at the Fort Moore Transportation Office immediately and submit a written request for a storage extension. Recent regulations in the Joint Federal Travel Regulation (JFTR) stipulate a maximum of 180 days of temporary storage without requiring approval from the Southeastern Regional Office. Storage beyond 180 days may not be approved if you choose to build a home while other housing options are available. It is crucial to communicate your situation and housing plans clearly in your extension request.
Property in Storage and TCS/Deployment Orders
Question: I have just arrived at Fort Moore, and my property is still in Temporary Storage. I now have TCS orders and will be deploying. What will happen to my property in storage?
Answer: If you receive TCS and deployment orders while your property is in Temporary Storage at Fort Moore, your property may remain in storage until your return from deployment under specific conditions. You must provide a copy of your TCS orders to the Inbound Personal Property Section. The conditions are:
- Single Service Member (No Dependents): If you are single with no dependents.
- Dependents Not at Fort Moore: If you have dependents, and they are not residing at your new duty station (Fort Moore) and will not be coming to Fort Moore until after your deployment.
Important Note: If your dependents are at Fort Moore and are capable of accepting delivery of your property but choose not to, the storage will convert to storage at your personal expense from that point forward.
Delivery Time Windows for Household Goods
Question: Why am I required to be available for property delivery from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM? Why can’t the moving company provide a more specific delivery time?
Answer: Transportation Providers (moving companies) are mandated by Government Regulations to perform deliveries and pickups of personal property between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This wide window is due to the variable nature of moving operations, including traffic, unforeseen delays at previous deliveries, and the time required for each individual delivery.
Upon your request, you can ask the Transportation Provider to schedule your delivery for either a Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM) or Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM) window, which can help narrow down the timeframe, but a precise time is generally not guaranteed due to the inherent complexities of moving schedules.
Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) Information
Considering Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) for your household goods? Here are some FAQs:
Researching Shipping and Storage Information
Question: Where can I find comprehensive information regarding shipping and storing my Personal Property and Personally Owned Vehicle (POV)?
Answer: The best online resource for information on personal property shipping and storage is the Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) website.
Website: www.sddc.army.mil
Navigation:
- Go to www.sddc.army.mil.
- Click on “Personal Property” located at the top right of the homepage.
- Scroll down the right side of the Personal Property page.
- You will find informational pamphlets and guides on both “Shipping/Storing Your Household Goods” and “POV (Personally Owned Vehicle) Shipment”.
This website provides official guidance, regulations, and resources to help you understand your entitlements and the processes involved in military moves and storage.
Non-Temporary Storage for TDY Orders
Question: If I have Temporary Duty (TDY) orders (DD Form 1610) sending me overseas for 179 days, can I place my household goods in Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) and also ship some items?
Answer: No, Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) is not authorized for Temporary Duty (TDY) orders when you are expected to return to the same duty station after the TDY period. NTS is generally intended for PCS moves, deployments (under specific circumstances), or other longer-term situations where you will not be residing at your current location for an extended period and will not be returning to the same duty station immediately afterward. For TDY, you may be authorized to ship Unaccompanied Baggage (UAB), but not NTS for household goods.
Entitlements for Service School in Conjunction with PCS
Question: What are my personal property entitlements if I am attending a service school in conjunction with a Permanent Change of Station (PCS)?
Answer: If you are attending a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) course of instruction (service school), your personal property entitlements are as follows:
- Shipment to School Location: You are authorized to ship your household goods to your school location (temporary duty location).
- Non-Temporary Storage (NTS): You are also authorized Non-Temporary Storage (NTS) for any portion of your authorized weight allowance that you do not wish to ship to your temporary duty location. This allows you to store household goods while you are attending school and have them shipped to your permanent duty station afterward.
- TDY En Route to PCS: If your PCS orders include Temporary Duty (TDY) en route to your final PCS duty station (e.g., for training or school), you are authorized to store your property pending completion of your TDY and then have it shipped to your ultimate PCS duty station.
General Moving Information FAQs
General questions about the moving process? See below:
Mover Arrival Time Windows
Question: What time will the movers arrive at my residence to pack and pick up my furniture?
Answer: Movers are authorized to arrive at your residence for packing and pickup of your furniture within a window between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Similar to delivery windows, providing a precise arrival time is challenging due to the dynamic nature of moving schedules and potential delays.
Filing Claims for Damaged Household Goods
Question: Where do I submit my paperwork to file a claim for damage to my household goods shipment?
Answer: The claim process for damaged household goods involves two potential stages:
- Claim with the Carrier (Moving Company): You must first file a claim directly with the moving carrier that handled your shipment. They are primarily responsible for compensating you for damages.
- Claim with JAG (Judge Advocate General): If you are dissatisfied with the compensation offered by the carrier and believe it is insufficient, you can then file a claim with JAG. However, claims filed with JAG are subject to a stipulation of receiving only 75% of the replacement value of the damaged items, compared to potentially receiving full replacement value from the carrier directly.
It is generally advisable to pursue your claim diligently with the carrier first to attempt to resolve the issue and receive full compensation before involving JAG.
Timeframe for Filing Damage Claims
Question: How long after my property is delivered do I have to initiate a claim for any damages?
Answer: There are two critical timeframes for filing damage claims:
- Initiate Claim Against Carrier: You have 70 days from the date of delivery of your property to initiate your claim against the moving carrier. This means you must notify the carrier of your intent to file a claim within this 70-day period.
- Finalize Claim with the Government: You have a much longer timeframe to finalize your claim with the Government (if needed, after carrier claim), which is 2 years from the date of delivery.
It is crucial to initiate your claim with the carrier within the 70-day window to preserve your rights.
Packing Material Removal After Unpacking
Question: Will the movers return at a later date to pick up packing material after I have unpacked my household goods?
Answer: Movers are required to remove all packing material after they have unpacked your household goods if you choose to have them unpack for you. However, if you waive the unpacking service and decide to unpack your belongings yourself, the movers are not obligated to return to pick up the packing material at a later date. In this case, disposing of packing materials becomes your responsibility.
Shipping Furniture in Unaccompanied Baggage
Question: Can I ship furniture items in my Unaccompanied Baggage (UAB)?
Answer: No, furniture is not authorized to be shipped as Unaccompanied Baggage (UAB). Unaccompanied Baggage is specifically intended for items you will need immediately upon arrival at your overseas or new duty station. UAB typically consists of:
- Clothing
- Dishes
- Linens
- Small, Collapsible Items: Such as cribs, playpens, and changing tables.
All furniture items must be shipped as Household Goods (HHG) through the regular household goods shipment process. Confusing UAB and HHG can lead to delays and complications in your move. Always clarify with the Fort Moore Transportation Office if you are unsure about what can be shipped as UAB versus HHG.
This comprehensive FAQ guide from the Fort Moore Transportation Office aims to clarify common questions and concerns related to military moves. For personalized assistance and specific questions related to your situation, do not hesitate to contact the Fort Moore Transportation Office directly. They are your dedicated resource for ensuring a smooth and efficient move.
