EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The summer peak moving season is in progress. Some DOD customers may experience unexpected delays in CONUS household goods pick-up and deliveries during this busy summer season.

Moving personal property during the summer months has always been challenging, however, this year's peak season push has been particularly challenging at base level due to an industry supply and demand dilemma that has resulted in an overall lack of carrier capacity.

Specifically, both DOD and commercial moves are up around 10 percent this year while the overall household goods movement infrastructure (equipment and personnel) have declined roughly 20 percent due to the economic down turn.

Currently, the entire CONUS and all military services are experiencing industry cancellations, push backs and refusals for government arranged moves in some markets and delayed deliveries out of storage in others. This situation is mostly associated with the domestic market and is impacting moves across all services.
While this challenge is mostly domestic, some spill over into the international market is likely. The Joint Personal Property Shipping Office, HQ Personal Property Activity, and the Surface Deployment and Distribution Center are all working on ways to lessen the impact.

Summer surge procedures have been implemented by the CONUS JPPSOs requiring a minimum of three weeks' notice from the first requested pack date. This three-week standard will greatly increase the chances of receiving the member's requested pack/ pickup dates.

Unfortunately, blackout dates are expected to continue through peak season and requested pack/pickup dates could change based upon carriers' capacity to handle the shipments. The JPPSOs are working hard to balance the customer's desires with industry realities as well as handling individual customer problems on a case-by-case basis.

For customers moving during the summer months, please stop by the Personal Property Shipping office, Bldg 613, upon receipt of your orders to schedule an outbound personal property briefing. Hours of operation are 0800-1500, Monday- Friday.

It is advisable that you do not delay contacting our office as this will have an impact on getting your requested dates. Please be flexible and be prepared for possible delays and provide alternate pickup dates where possible. Once you have received your briefing, please remain in close contact with our office and JPPSO throughout the process to ensure your pack/pickup dates have been confirmed with a Transportation Service Provider. For questions, please contact customer service at 882-8331.