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Moving: Damage claims

On the day of delivery, make sure the carrier notes any loss or damage on the Joint Statement of Loss or Damage at Delivery form (DD Form 1840).

You can detail damages on the back of the form and estimate the loss or damage at delivery on the front. Turn in the form to a claims office as soon as possible after the move.

Reimbursement for damaged or lost items is limited. There are maximums per item and per category on most types of property. Secondary insurance will cover any remaining reimbursement.

The amount paid by the government on individual items is depreciated for age and wear. For items worth more than $200, the replacement cost is calculated as the current replacement cost minus depreciation for each year of age, to a maximum of 75 percent loss of value.

Good news is on the horizon, however — Congress passed a law in 2006 requiring all companies that transport household goods and other personal items for service members to provide full replacement value for lost or damaged property. This benefit will take effect by March 1, 2008, and apply to all baggage and household goods shipped at government expense for service members, federal civilians and their families.

For more information, visit your local claims office. You also can submit your claim to the moving company for restitution.