[Request for Comptroller General Review of GSA Recovery by Setoff of Funds]

An audit firm requested a review by the Comptroller General of funds recovered by setoff by the General Services Administration (GSA) for the transportation of the household goods of a military officer from South Korea to Illinois. The carrier was paid for the transportation services it performed and the audit firm, on behalf of the carrier, claimed and was paid additional freight charges on the basis of the shipment's constructive weight. GSA assessed an overcharge on the basis of the weight shown on the Government bill of lading (GBL). The overcharge was recovered by offset. The audit firm contended that the constructive weight was applicable, whereas GSA argued that it was not applicable. GAO found that: (1) under applicable regulations and the instructions on the GBL, constructive weights were unauthorized; (2) the GBL was prima facie evidence that the weight shown was the correct scale weight; and (3) the claimant was responsible for furnishing evidence to establish its claim and its right to receive payment, but it failed to do so. Accordingly, the audit action was sustained.