DD Form 361: Transportation Discrepancy Report (TDR) Guide – The DD Form 361, officially known as the Transportation Discrepancy Report (TDR), is a critical document used by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to report discrepancies in shipments transported via commercial carriers or military systems. This form helps document issues like damage, loss, shortages, or other transportation problems to support claims and improve logistics.
What is DD Form 361?
DD Form 361 is the standardized form prescribed by the Defense Transportation Regulation (DTR) 4500.9-R, Part II, Chapter 210. It replaced the older Standard Form 361 and serves as the primary tool for documenting transportation discrepancies involving DoD cargo. The form is used to initiate investigations, gather information, and support financial claims against carriers for loss or damage.
Official Download: Download DD Form 361 PDF (Latest revision: JUN 2006).
Purpose of the Transportation Discrepancy Report (TDR)
The TDR has two main purposes:
- Document facts and evidence for claims offices (such as DFAS) to recover government funds from carriers or contractors.
- Provide data for analyzing and preventing future cargo loss and damage in the Defense Transportation System.
When to Use DD Form 361?
Use DD Form 361 for discrepancies such as:
- Loss or damage to shipments
- Shortages or overages
- Astray freight (misrouted shipments)
- Broken or missing seals
- Improper packing or loading
- Delays or other miscellaneous transportation issues
It is required for classified/protected shipments, arms/ammunition/explosives (AA&E), and high-value items. RFI (Request for Information) TDRs are common for initial notifications.
Key Sections of DD Form 361
The form is divided into Part I (Request for Information) and Part II (For Claims Purposes). Important blocks include:
- Blocks 1-2: Date and Report Number
- Blocks 4-8: Reporting Activity, Consignor, Consignee, Shipper, Carrier details
- Blocks 11-15: Mode, dates, and discovery information
- Blocks 18-27: Item details (NSN, quantities, value, discrepancies)
- Block 28/36: Remarks for detailed explanations
- Part II: Inspection and disposition data for claims
How to Fill Out DD Form 361?
Follow instructions in DTR Part II, Chapter 210. The consignee typically completes most blocks. Key tips:
- Gather all shipment documents (BOL, delivery receipt, packing lists).
- Provide detailed descriptions of the discrepancy in remarks.
- Attach supporting evidence like photos, inspection reports, and DD Form 1348-1A.
- Submit within required timeframes (immediately for priority/classified shipments).
Many DoD systems like Global Freight Management (GFM) Discrepancy Identification System (DIS) can auto-populate the form.
Submission and Processing Procedures
Return completed forms to the Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) or appropriate claims office. Use electronic systems where available for faster processing. Replies from carriers or shippers are tracked, and unresolved issues may proceed to formal claims.
Related Forms and Regulations
- Defense Transportation Regulation (DTR) 4500.9-R, Part II, Chapter 210
- DD Form 1348-1A (Issue Release/Receipt Document)
- DD Form 250 (Material Inspection and Receiving Report)
Benefits of Proper TDR Reporting
Accurate use of DD Form 361 ensures:
- Recovery of funds for lost or damaged government property
- Improved carrier performance and accountability
- Better data for logistics process improvements
- Compliance with DoD policies for U.S. military shipments
Download and Resources
Official DD Form 361 PDF Download
For full instructions, refer to the DTR Chapter 210 (USTRANSCOM).