Article: How to Prepare for a PCS under the new Global Household Goods Contract
How to Prepare for a PCS under the new Global Household Goods Contract
It's a recent change that is already affecting military families - and not in a good way.
The PCS Process is heading for catastrophic disaster, and eventually its own congressional hearing...In April 2024 HomeSafe began servicing shipments for local moves. In September 2024 they started their first interstate moves with plans for them to service 100% of domestic moves by May 2025 which is approximately 150,000 shipments. International shipments are planned to start transition in September 2025...
The issues with HomeSafe started in August 2024 when they released their rate calculator to the moving industry. The rates offered were 30-40% less than what they would be paid in the current program. When companies ran the numbers many found that they would end up losing money on the shipments.
Many companies, including all the major van lines have said no to doing any work under the contract with the current rates. HomeSafe has stated the rates/contract is non negotiable and has not budged...
Since the end of December I have been connected with families daily about their experiences of moving under HomeSafe Alliance. The issues and problems are usually ones that we do not see until June, and it’s only January.
These issues range from: Poor communication...Delayed packing...Delayed pick ups...Delayed deliveries...Additionally, we have seen the services abandon military families with any help and assistance in navigating these issues. Families are told “it’s a HomeSafe shipment, we can’t do anything. You’ll have to wait on them.”...Doing a PPM (personally procured move, formally the DITY) is going to get more difficult to do. HomeSafe Alliance is the one setting the PPM rates, and we are seeing the rates be 40-50% less than what families would get in the current program...The amount being paid is not enough to cover the expense of a pod, or UPack ABF trailer or even a full service moving company. Even if it covers the cost of a rental truck, once you add in the fuel, boxes, paper, tape, and other supplies the amount doesn’t cover it...It’s a way to financially force families into using a program that is not tested and filled with issues...
STEP 1 - TRACK YOUR HOUSEHOLD GOODS
An HHG list is always a good idea, but especially in this year's PCS climate. It is imperative that families know exactly what they own, how much a replacement is worth, and other details (serial or model numbers, warranty numbers, etc.). Make sure you have formal appraisals done of special or expensive items, and make copies of those appraisals. Selling, donating, recycling, or throwing away unwanted items throughout your entire house will make this process (and ultimately your move) faster and easier. Consider taking "Before Move" pictures of each room, vehicle, etc.
Feeling overwhelmed? We've created an official (Excel) HHG tracker for you. The tracker includes an example list, step-by-step instructions, and more so you can get a complete picture of your home quickly and thoroughly.
STEP 2 - REVIEW YOUR INSURANCE
Have the proper renter or homeowner insurance? Reviewing - and if necessary updating - your insurance coverage ASAP is another good way to prepare yourself for possible loss, damage, or theft during the PCS process. And Step 1 comes in extra handy here - when you have a complete and accurate look at the value of your HHG, you know exactly how much renter's insurance you need. No overestimates (you pay too much!), and no underestimates that leave you vulnerable and uncovered.
STEP 3 - TRACK ALL COMMUNICATION
We know. The need for military families to be extra vigilant during an already stressful time is disappointing to say the least. But please also track all communication during your PCS experience. Texts (if any), emails, and phone calls - note dates, times, names, and exactly what was discussed. Note any missed pack, pickup, or drop-off dates.
If HSA is your TSP (Transportation Service Provider), you will still need to contact them first about issues. And while they may not be able to do much, try contacting your local transportation office. Megan recommends:
(Location Transportation Office) If packing days are missed then ask about having the shipment pulled and put thru DPS.- Contact the JPPSO: This is like the regional office above the local transportation office. Again, they may not be able to do much but they can be aware of it. Again, if packing days are missed ask for the shipment to be put thru DPS.- CC ALL PARTIES: In any written communication be sure to cc the local office and your JPPSO.
,%20families%20are%20now%20having%20to%20choose%20over...){kind=link}
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.