Centralized Department of Defense Management of Cargo Shipped in Containers Would Save Millions and Improve Service

Gao ID: LCD-77-227 November 8, 1977

The Military Traffic Management Command and the Military Sealift Command divide management responsibilities for selecting containers for cargo going overseas, often preventing the Department of Defense (DOD) from getting the lowest transportation costs. Both Commands make adequate selections for each portion of the movement, considering the information they have and their responsibilities. However, if shippers submitted enough cargo information and responsibility and information were centralized, better selections could be made.

DOD could have saved about $12.9 million of the more than $200 spent on overseas cargo shipments in fiscal year 1976 though use of an effective central management system and better use of up-to-date computer technology to select the most economical shipping arrangement. Transportation service to DOD shippers could also have been improved, reducing the shipping times. Less shipping time lowers the inventory costs which the Department estimated could be millions of dollars each year.

Recommendations

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