Shipment and Storage of Household Goods (HHG)

The Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) currently allows an initial period of up to 90 days of temporary storage of HHG at Government expense. However, upon written request from the employee you may authorize an additional 90 days of storage for HHG at Government expense provided the employees' request is justified as stipulated in the FTR.

When developing policy and/or authorizing temporary storage of HHG, it is recommended that you consider the following:

· The number of days allowed for storage of HHG by industry is 30 - 60 days.

· The number of days for storage of HHG should be commensurate with the number of days authorized for TQSE.

· Temporary storage of HHG should end within a reasonable time based upon the carrier's ability to deliver the Household Goods, not the employee's personal preference such as cleaning of carpets and painting.

· By contracting with multiple carriers or using relocation services companies you may be able to:

1. Ensure service during peak move times;

2. Obtain price discounts;

3. Provide better customer service; and

4. Reduce damage claims.

· Counseling the employee in the following areas to help ensure a positive relocation experience and decrease damage claims:

1. The importance of overseeing the packing of HHG, making note and informing the carrier's driver immediately of any problems. This will help prevent/reduce loss and damage claims issues.

2. Having the moving truck checked for snow or ice in inclement winter weather prior to weighing to avoid exceeding the HHG 18,000-pound weight limit.

3. Purchasing any additional insurance for the HHG shipment prior to the loading of the HHG.

4. Discarding any items not used, especially magazines, books, old clothes and furniture to help ensure that the HHG 18,000-pound net weight limit is not exceeded.

5. Conducting a walk-through of the residence (closets, cabinets, basement, attic) with the carrier's driver to ensure that all HHG have been loaded.

6. The employee should read all documents prior to signing.