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Damaged household goods don't have to be a hassle

  • Published
  • 82nd Training Wing Judge Advocate
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  To complete the Air Force mission, Airmen must constantly relocate. This can sometimes be a hassle. The base Legal Office can help Airmen who need information concerning damages to their household goods during government paid shipment and other property damage.

Any deliveries of damaged household goods after Oct. 1, 2007, fall under full value replacement. All claims are handled through the carrier, in order to ensure the best service when filing a claim, follow these steps:

· When receiving a household goods shipment, check each item against the inventory sheet when the item is brought into the home.

· List all missing and obviously damaged items on a Department of Defense Form 1840.

· List any loss or damage discovered after the carrier departs on DD Form 1840R.

· A DD Form 1840R must be turned into the carrier within 70 days of the date of delivery.

· List the proper inventory number for the item on the DD Form 1840R, and be specific about the nature and location of the damage.

Failure to file a DD Form 1840R within 70 days may result in the claim being denied in whole or in part. Remember, filing a DD Form 1840R is not the same as filing a claim.

To file a claim follow these instructions:

· Call the carrier who is listed on the DD Form 1840R and follow their procedures to file a claim.

· Claims must be filed with the carrier within nine months of the date of delivery.

· Work with the carrier to resolve the claim issue.

If a customer is not satisfied with the resolution, they have several options. The customer has two years from the date of delivery to file a claim with the Air Force where the claim will fall under depreciated value. To do so, call the Claims Service Center at (937) 656-8044 or DSN 986-8044.

If you have any questions about the claims process, visit https://claims.jag.af.mil.

This information is only a guide. If you are not entitled to legal assistance, consult a civilian attorney. If you need help and are entitled to legal assistance, call your base legal office for more information. Also visit the legal assistance Web site at https://aflegalassistance.law.af.mil.