DAF Form 4388: Inbound TPS Materiel Worksheet [Download] – The DAF Form 4388, officially titled Inbound Transportation Protective Service Materiel Worksheet, is a critical document used by the Department of the Air Force (DAF) for receiving and documenting shipments that require Transportation Protective Service (TPS). These shipments typically involve sensitive, classified, or high-value materiel such as Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives (AA&E), Communications Security (COMSEC) items, or other protected assets.
Traffic Management Offices (TMOs), Cargo Movement Elements, and authorized 2T0X1 personnel (Traffic Management) use this worksheet during the inbound “in-check” process to verify that carriers provided the required protective services and that the shipment arrives intact and secure.
Why DAF Form 4388 Matters in Air Force Logistics?
Transportation Protective Service (TPS) ensures in-transit security for sensitive DoD cargo to prevent loss, theft, damage, or compromise. TPS options include Constant Surveillance Service (CIS), Dual Driver Protective Service (DDP), Protective Security Service (PSS), and others as outlined in the Defense Transportation Regulation (DTR) 4500.9-R, Part II, Chapter 205.
For inbound shipments, DAF Form 4388 serves as the official checklist and certification tool. It pairs with the outbound counterpart, DAF Form 4387. Both forms help maintain accountability, support compliance with DAFI 24-602 (Volume 2), and ensure proper handling of AA&E, classified, and sensitive materiel.
Key users include:
- Traffic Managers and Cargo Movement personnel
- 2T0X1 specialists (especially 7-level or civilian equivalents with primary AFSC 2T051)
- Technical specialists (e.g., munitions, maintenance) for limited sections
Only trained, certified, and formally appointed personnel (via official memorandum) may perform and certify tasks on the form. The certifier cannot be the same individual who performed the hands-on tasks.
When and How to Use DAF Form 4388?
Use DAF Form 4388 whenever receiving a TPS-designated shipment. Complete it in conjunction with the physical in-check process. Base-level instructions, such as those at Luke AFB or Eglin AFB, often require its use for all TPS inbound movements, including small package carrier deliveries initially treated as controlled materiel.
Core procedures:
- Review inbound documentation (e.g., Bill of Lading, REPSHIP status in CMOS).
- Inspect the shipment for damage, shortages, broken seals, or discrepancies in requested protective services.
- Document findings on the form.
- Have the carrier representative acknowledge any issues.
- Certify completion per DAFI 24-602 guidance (T-1 or T-2 compliance levels).
The form typically captures:
- Transportation Control Number (TCN)
- Shipment type and details
- Origin and destination information
- Verification of protective services provided (e.g., constant surveillance, dual drivers, seals intact)
- Condition of materiel upon receipt
- Certifier signatures and dates
It helps generate discrepancy reports if the carrier failed to provide requested services or if issues like seal compromise occur.
Related Regulations and Guidance
- DAFI 24-602, Volume 2 — Prescribes use of DAF Form 4388 for inbound TPS shipments and details certification requirements.
- Defense Transportation Regulation (DTR) Part II, Chapter 205 — Governs all TPS procedures, accessorial services, and minimum standards for AA&E, classified, and sensitive shipments.
- DoDM 5100.76 — Safeguarding of AA&E.
- Local base instructions (e.g., LukeAFBI 24-201, 36WGI 24-203) that supplement higher guidance.
Personnel must reference the latest versions on the official Air Force e-Publishing site.
How to Download the Official DAF Form 4388?
Download the current fillable PDF directly from the official source:
→ Official Download: DAF Form 4388 PDF
Always use the version hosted on e-publishing.af.mil to ensure you have the most current revision. Third-party sites may host outdated or unofficial copies.
Tip: Check the form’s revision date and any attached instructions or blocks for field-specific guidance.
Best Practices for Compliance and Accuracy
- Daily Checks — Monitor inbound REPSHIPs via CMOS and email.
- Segregation of Duties — Ensure the performer and certifier are different qualified individuals.
- Training & Appointment — Only use personnel trained, certified, and appointed in writing for handling AA&E, classified, and sensitive materiel.
- Documentation — Record any discrepancies on the carrier’s delivery receipt and the worksheet. Notify the shipping TMO promptly.
- Retention — Maintain records according to Air Force Records Disposition Schedule and DAFI 33-322.
Proper use of DAF Form 4388 strengthens supply chain security, supports audit readiness, and minimizes risk to national security assets.
Need Help with DAF Form 4388 or TPS Shipments?
Air Force Traffic Management professionals and 2T0X1 career field members should consult their local TMO or Logistics Readiness Squadron for unit-specific procedures. For policy questions, refer to DAFI 24-602 or the latest DTR Chapter 205.
Official Resources:
- Air Force e-Publishing (forms and publications)
- USTRANSCOM DTR (ustranscom.mil)
- Your base Cargo Movement Element
This guide is for informational purposes and draws from official Department of the Air Force and DoD sources as of 2026. Always verify the latest guidance in current instructions, as policies can update.
Personnel working in Air Force logistics, munitions, or supply chain roles will find this form essential for compliant inbound operations. Download it today and ensure your unit follows proper TPS in-check procedures.