Grievance Case Summary - G-098

FACTS - Relocation; storage of household effects (HHE). ISSUES - Responsibility for arrangements; credibility. Grievor relocated. Move of HHE delayed and then arranged at time while Grievor on vacation. Upon arriving at new post with HHE, movers received Force authorization to place HHE in storage. Upon return from vacation, Grievor contacted movers who advised they had authorization to store HHE for 30 days. As Grievor was about to move to another residence, instructed movers to retain HHE until time of move. Grievor billed by Force for storage of HHE; grieved. Submitted that roommates were expecting delivery but truck never went to residence; roommates received call from driver asking for Grievor; driver told Grievor not there; driver replied that there was no problem and that Grievor should phone company upon return. Grievor also submitted that never advised of extra costs for one month storage. Force's version was that driver told that Grievor away and no offer made to accept delivery, therefore, had no choice but to authorize storage.

On December 7, 1993, the ERC issued its findings and recommendations. Force has primary responsibility for arranging movement of HHE. Fact that Grievor's move delayed and then arranged at time of vacation put greater responsibility on Force for problems in delivery. Grievor's actions, while not perfect, satisfied requirement to try to be present or have a representative present during unloading/packing periods. Force made no attempt to verify if delivery could be made; difficult to accept that, based solely on information from movers, Force would agree to put Grievor's HHE in storage and then bill member for costs resulting from Force approval. As for additional period of storage, after Grievor's return from vacation, Grievor was not informed of extra costs by Force or movers. Recommendation that grievance be upheld.

On December 29, 1993, the Commissioner rendered his decision. Grievor acted in good faith throughout. Force had more than passive interest and must accept some responsibility for turn of events. Grievor not responsible for lengthy delay in processing of effects. Fact she was on leave when goods finally arrived should not be held against her. Grievance upheld.