How the Global Household Goods Contract Affects You by Georgia Angell

MILITARY MINUTE:

For those of you that pack, load and haul military, this is for you. Thank you for your dedicated and professional service to our men and women in the military. We know there are challenges, so let’s figure out ways to make it better.

Each week the DOD has meetings with industry and association representatives. Current problems are discussed and items for the future. Here are some of the hot topics during the last month:

• COMMUNICATION WITH THE CUSTOMER: The DOD would like everyone to do a better job when communicating with the customer. There have been a few complaints and unfortunately, some of these have reached higher ranking officials. They are asking that we to continue to work our bed side manner with every interaction with the customer and their things and their home.
• COVID PROTECTION: Although violations for not following the COVID protocol is less than before, we need to take the proper precautions. The rules are probably not going to change anytime soon.
• REWEIGH: Drivers – Let’s talk about reweighs! Actually, let’s talk about the failure to get a reweigh. It’s definitely near the top of the list of issues from DOD. So sure, it’s certainly not any single person’s fault that a reweigh isn’t performed. We know the communicating process is challenging beginning with the military. So how can you, the quality driver, help? Ask if a reweigh is required on each shipment. A hassle? Doesn’t help you make money? So True! If we don’t fix this, the DOD will keep increasing the penalty fee. If everyone does their part, then this will become a non-issue for everyone. Here is actual rule:
• When PPSO requests a reweigh, the reweigh must be completed at destination, prior to the shipment being delivered direct or to SIT. There should also be sufficient time to allow the government or customer the opportunity for a witnessed reweigh.

There are more changes coming for peak season, but many are things that you already do. Here are 2 items about protecting the home:

• HOME DAMAGE: At both origin and destination residents, you must conduct a joint inspection with the customer and report real property condition and any damages on the DP3 Real Property Damage Form and give that form to the customer.
• HOME PROTECTION: We are now required to install floor coverings in high traffic areas (e.g. entry and interior hallways) and protection for doorways in high traffic areas (e.g. entry doorways, etc.) prior to pack out, pick-up, and delivery.

GHC UPDATE: Here’s the latest about the Global Household Goods Contract (GHC). Also known as the single source. The award was supposed to be announced in June 2021, but it now scheduled for announcement in September 2021. When will it actually start? Probably late peak 2022. But most likely, whoever doesn’t win will protest and the DOD will take time to review.

WHAT’S YOUR HOT TOPIC? If want to share your ideas or concerns on Military rules, let me know. I can’t guarantee any results, but we can try! And if you have any questions, I can do my best to answer them. georgia@trellisvineconsulting.com.