Overview
This section details the requirement for contractors to provide advance notification (REPSHIP) to government receiving activities for specific types of cargo, such as hazardous materials or bulk shipments. These notices allow agencies to coordinate logistics, security, and equipment in advance of a shipment's arrival.
Key Rules
- Applicability: Advance notice is generally required for classified, sensitive, or protected materials; explosives and hazardous materials; shipments requiring movement control; and full carload or truckload shipments.
- Purpose of Notice: REPSHIPs are used to facilitate arrangements for transportation control, labor, storage space, and materials handling equipment at the destination.
- Cost Avoidance: Timely notification is mandatory to help the government avoid incurring demurrage (rail) or vehicle detention (truck) charges.
- Clause Requirement: Contracting Officers must insert FAR clause 52.247-68 in solicitations and contracts when these safety, security, or bulk shipment conditions are met for DoD or civilian agency facilities.
Practical Implications
- Contractors must establish robust communication protocols with consignee transportation offices to ensure REPSHIPs are sent early enough to prevent delivery delays.
- Failure to provide timely notice can lead to administrative bottlenecks and potential contractor liability for detention fees if the government facility is unprepared to receive the shipment.