Household Goods Shipment and Storage Program

This thesis investigates the current code 4 shipping method used when moving household goods from the continental United States to overseas locations. The investigation includes a comparison with the commercial industry method. A review of the DOD test conducted, using the commercial shipping method, was analyzed. Security measures used in code 4 shipments were also compared with the commercial industry standards. Research questions examined in this thesis are: (1) Can the loose stow seavan method reduce loss and damage claims? (2) Is there a better way to secure code 4 household goods shipments when moved overseas? (3) Are there value added benefits to DOD for implementing new methods in overseas shipping? This thesis supports the premise that Military Traffic Management Command (MTMC) can reduce loss and damage claims occurring in overseas shipments by including the loose stow seavan method as an option to the personal property shipping office (PPSO). Value added benefits realized by DOD exercising this option includes, shipping cost savings, reduction of loss and damage claims costs, good will through customer satisfaction, and leverage on the carrier/agent when quality is not maintained.