U.S. Government Services
A PROUD RELOCATION MANAGEMENT PROVIDER TO THOSE SERVING OUR COUNTRY
Since 1984, Sirva, dba BGRS, Inc. (“BGRS”), has been a trusted advisor and partner to the nation’s top federal agencies. Our decades-long history of serving the U.S. government is backed by our unparalleled experience in conforming to both the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) and our deep understanding of the General Services Administration’s (GSA’s) stringent relocation policy requirements and guidelines.
Since the award of our first Government contract in 1984, we have supported 40+ federal and quasi-governmental agencies and managed more than 147,500 U.S. federal moves. We have also expertly handled 280,000 moves for the Canadian Government over the past 15 years.
OUR EXPERIENCE HAS YOU COVERED
As the relocation industry’s leading federal contractor, we offer complete, reliable relocation services in full compliance with the GSA Schedule 48 and all U.S. government contracting requirements. We value our long-standing relationship with the U.S. government and take our responsibility to the federal agencies and employees we serve seriously.
Highlighting our experience and leadership in serving the government sector, we have proudly played a key role in the following federal community forums for many years:
- Senior Executives Association (SEA) Corporate Advisory Council: Serve as an advocate for our government clients’ relocation interests to federal leaders.
- Government Relocation Advisory Board (GRAB): Served as an active member focused on transforming the relocation provisions of the FTR.
Our agency clients are governed by the highest ethical standards and quality control elements:
GOVERNMENT-TRAINED AND GOVERNMENT-CLEARED PERSONNEL:
All dedicated team members are U.S. citizens and hold or are in the process of obtaining Position of Public Trust security clearances.
STRINGENT SECURITY PROTOCOLS:
All systems, facilities, personnel, and data accessibility are U.S-based and carefully constructed to adhere to government standards and protect the sensitive information entrusted to us.
SECURE RELOCATION MANAGEMENT PORTAL:
Adheres to the highest global standards for data security with multi-factor authentication, biometrics, and user-level validation.
PROPRIETARY GCERTIFIED™ PROGRAM:
All dedicated government team members and service partners are required to participate in a Sirva, dba BGRS-developed course to learn FTR/FAR requirements and understand government culture.
Sirva, dba BGRS, Inc., stands as a steadfast and proud relocation service partner to the U.S. government. With a commitment to excellence, efficiency, and unparalleled service, we have consistently demonstrated its ability to meet the unique needs and challenges of government-sponsored relocations. Through innovative solutions, rigorous adherence to compliance, and a dedicated team of professionals, we ensure that every relocation undertaken in partnership with the U.S. government is executed with precision and care.
MORE THAN A MOVER
In addition to providing relocation management services, we play a pivotal role in supporting U.S. federal government agencies in crafting relocation strategies that seamlessly integrate with overarching talent management objectives. By leveraging our expertise and experience in mobility solutions, we ensure that relocation initiatives align closely with broader talent management goals.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION (DEI):
We help our government clients create mobility programs that prioritize DEI through services like cultural training, which is designed to introduce employees to the customs, traditions, and social norms of their new destination, helping them navigate disparate environments and foster inclusive interactions with colleagues and community members.
SPOUSE AND PARTNER ASSISTANCE:
We provide personalized services to help facilitate integration into the new community, such as mentor and support networks and career assistance, which may include resume writing and interviewing, introductions/networking opportunities, and traditional job placement services in the destination location.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT:
We support a mobile employee's career advancement through a range of relocation service solutions and policies designed to facilitate professional growth and development. We enable mobile employees to seamlessly transition to new roles and opportunities while supporting their long-term professional success within the organization.
Employee Retention:
We contribute to our government clients’ employee retention by facilitating smooth transitions and providing personalized support throughout the relocation process, enhancing job satisfaction, maintaining loyalty, and safeguarding institutional knowledge.
By connecting relocations with these critical goals, Sirva, dba BGRS, not only facilitates efficient moves but also actively contributes to the long-term success and effectiveness of U.S. federal government agencies' talent management strategies.
As we look towards the future, we remain unwavering in our dedication to facilitating seamless transitions for government employees and their families, thereby upholding our shared commitment to service, integrity, and excellence.
RELOCATION SERVICES
We have been authorized by the GSA to provide the following relocation services to the federal government under Schedule Title: Transportation, Delivery & Relocation Services; SIN 531 (Schedule 48); Contract number: GS-33F-001HA.
The following Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) outlines the Special Item Numbers (SINs) we are approved to provide to the U.S. government:
653-1 Home Sale
653-4 Entitlement Counseling
653-1B Marketing Assistance
653-5 Agency Customizes Services
653-5 Property Management
653-7 Move Management
For a complete history and listing of services, please refer to our GSA-Approved Catalog.
What You Need To Know About A Potential U.S. Port Strike
The prospect of an upcoming labor strike at U.S. ports reinforces the significant impact strikes can have on household goods shipments and relocating employees. As the possibility of a U.S. port strike looms, we offer some options to consider, as well as some long-term strategies you can put in place for future events.
What Do You Need to Know About Potential Strikes at U.S. Ports?
The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), which represents approximately 45,000 workers, has threatened to strike on January 15, 2025 if a new contract is not reached.
Key issues for negotiations include the use of automated systems like Auto Gate and the increasing presence of IT personnel on marine terminals. The ILA has stated they will not extend the current contract or accept external intervention. This potential strike could impact several major ports along the East and Gulf Coasts. We have already seen some rail yards take preventative steps to refuse cargo to prevent a backlog in anticipation of a strike, but at this time it is unknown if a strike will happen or how long it will last.
What is the Impact of Port Strikes on Relocation Shipments?
Port strikes have a significant impact on relocation household goods shipments, including:
- Household goods shipping delays: Port strikes can cause household items to remain stuck in transit, delaying employees' ability to settle into new homes.
- Higher transportation costs: Shipping providers may need to reroute goods via more expensive alternatives, such as air freight, increasing relocation budgets.
- Logistical challenges: Finding and organizing alternative transportation solutions can be difficult without a reliable partner.
Proactive Steps to Mitigate Risks
- Air freight for essential goods: Ship essential items via air freight to minimize disruption for employees awaiting their household goods.
- Extend temporary housing: Ensure relocating employees have sufficient temporary housing while waiting for their shipments to arrive.
- Temporary storage: Store goods in warehouses at the origin location to avoid higher costs such as port storage or demurrage fees.
- Alternative ports: Utilize other operational ports (e.g., U.S. West Coast ports) which can serve as alternatives, though a prolonged strike may lead to congestion.
- Note: Canadian and Mexican ports are not viable options for U.S.-bound household goods shipments due to customs restrictions.
Sirva’s Proactive ApproachSirva’s global household goods operations team continuously monitors potential strikes and flags shipments likely to be affected. This allows us to take proactive measures to minimize disruptions, costs, and delays. |
5 Ways to Prepare for a Port Strike and Manage Household Goods Shipments
To minimize the stress and disruption caused by port strikes, it's essential to adopt proactive strategies for managing household goods shipments. Below are key approaches to ensure smoother relocations.
- Leverage alternative ports and transportation combinations, such as sea, air, and land shipping.
- Collaborate with your relocation partner to identify flexible shipping methods that allow rerouting to mitigate delays.
- Encourage employees and teams to include buffer periods in their schedules to account for possible delays.
- Ensure essential items are shipped separately (e.g., via air freight) so employees have what they need during the transition.
- Arrange temporary storage facilities at the origin location to protect household goods until disruptions clear.
- This reduces port-related costs, such as demurrage or chassis fees, and allows for quick delivery when shipments resume.
- Provide relocating employees with regular updates about potential delays and shipment statuses.
- Clearly outline contingency plans and alternative solutions to ensure employees feel supported.
- Work with an experienced relocation partner, like Sirva, that can offer:
- A global network and multiple routing options.
- Real-time solutions for rerouting shipments during logistical challenges.
- Expert guidance in navigating delays and managing expectations.
Conclusion
Port strikes are unpredictable, but preparation can minimize their impact. Sirva's experience and comprehensive global network make it easier to adapt to disruptions, ensuring employees receive their household goods with minimal delays. By diversifying shipping options, maintaining clear communication, and building flexibility into plans, you can keep your relocation programs running smoothly despite external challenges.
For more information on how we can help you manage your household goods shipments, please email us at concierge@sirva.com or reach out to your Sirva representative.