Moving Claims

The single most important moment is delivery day. Note visible damage and missing items on the delivery paperwork before the crew leaves. Take photos of damaged items, the boxes they came in, and the inventory numbers.

If the crew pressures you to sign a clean receipt, don't. Note 'subject to further inspection' if you're unsure.

• Notify the carrier of loss or damage within 75 days of delivery (the 'notice of loss/damage' — this preserves your rights).
• File the actual claim within 9 months of delivery for full replacement value consideration.
• Miss the 75-day notice and the carrier can deny items you discover later. Put it on your calendar the day your goods arrive.

Claims are filed in the Defense Personal Property System against your move record. List each item with its inventory number, description, purchase price, and repair or replacement cost. Photos and receipts strengthen every line item.

For high-value items, you may be asked for proof of value. Keep receipts for anything expensive, and consider a pre-move video walkthrough of your home as insurance.

The carrier's first offer is a starting point, not a verdict. You can counter with repair estimates or replacement costs for comparable items. For disputes you can't resolve, the Military Claims Office at your installation can help, and you may have the option of transferring the claim to the government.

Full Replacement Value protection means the carrier must repair, replace, or pay the current replacement cost — not the depreciated value — for items lost or destroyed, up to the coverage limits on your move.