FAR 47.201—Definitions.
Plain-English Summary
FAR 47.201 provides the basic definitions used in this subpart for transportation and moving-related contracting. It defines two key terms: "general freight" and "office furniture." General freight is the catch-all category for supplies, goods, and other transportable property that are not covered by the separate definition of "household goods" or "office furniture." Office furniture is defined broadly to include furniture, equipment, fixtures, records, and other equipment and materials used in Government offices, hospitals, and similar establishments. In practice, these definitions matter because they help contracting officers, transportation personnel, and contractors determine which transportation or moving requirements apply to a shipment, how to classify property correctly, and which services or contract terms should be used. The section exists to reduce ambiguity and ensure that property is categorized consistently before movement, which affects pricing, handling, liability, and compliance with the applicable transportation rules.
Key Rules
General freight is residual category
General freight includes supplies, goods, and other transportable property that do not fit within the definitions of household goods or office furniture. If property is not specifically classified elsewhere in this subpart, it is treated as general freight for purposes of applying the transportation rules.
Office furniture has broad scope
Office furniture is not limited to desks and chairs; it also includes furniture, equipment, fixtures, records, and other equipment and materials used in Government offices, hospitals, and similar establishments. The definition is functional, focusing on the type of use and setting rather than only the item name.
Classification controls application
These definitions are used to decide how property should be categorized before shipment or move. Correct classification is important because different categories may trigger different transportation arrangements, handling requirements, and contract provisions.
Exclusions matter
General freight expressly excludes property that falls within the definitions of household goods or office furniture. Users must first determine whether the property fits one of the more specific categories before defaulting to general freight.
Responsibilities
Contracting Officer
Identify the correct property category when planning or awarding transportation-related requirements, and ensure the solicitation or contract uses the proper classification so the applicable FAR subpart is applied correctly.
Transportation/Property Management Personnel
Evaluate the items to be moved, distinguish between general freight and office furniture, and provide accurate descriptions so the shipment is routed, handled, and documented under the correct rules.
Contractor
Classify and describe the property accurately when quoting, packing, loading, transporting, or invoicing, and avoid treating office furniture or other specialized property as ordinary freight if a different category applies.
Agency/End User
Provide clear information about the items to be moved, including their use and location, so the government can determine whether the property is general freight or office furniture and plan the move accordingly.
Practical Implications
Misclassification can lead to using the wrong transportation method, pricing basis, or contract clause set, which can create disputes or compliance problems.
The definition of office furniture is broader than many users expect; records and materials used in offices or hospitals may fall within it even if they are not traditional furniture.
General freight is a default category only after ruling out household goods and office furniture, so users should not skip the classification step.
Accurate item descriptions are important in move planning, packing, and claims handling because the category can affect how the property is treated during transit.
Contractors and government personnel should confirm the intended use and setting of the property before shipment, especially for mixed loads that may contain both office furniture and other freight.
Official Regulatory Text
As used in this subpart- General freight means supplies, goods, and transportable property not encompassed in the definitions of "household goods" or "office furniture." Office furniture means furniture, equipment, fixtures, records, and other equipment and materials used in Government offices, hospitals, and similar establishments.