What is a CRSP?

New terms come into vogue all the time. Sometimes this is done with good reason, and other times it is not. Every now and then an older term will be dusted off and used to describe a new tactic, technique or procedure.

Last year, I started hearing the term, CRSP (pronounced "crisp"), getting tossed around. This set off an alarm in my head, since I am very familiar with most logistics terms and TTPs. I assumed it was new, and I starting searching for more information.

As it turned out, my old boss at CASCOM set me straight. CRSP is not a new term. If fact, it has been around for quite some time (at least 1997).

The Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms (short title: Joint Pub 1-02 or JP 1-02) defines a CRSP as follows:

"centralized receiving and shipping point — Actual location where containers with cargo must be sorted before transshipment to the appropriate supply support activity or owning unit. Single consignee cargo and ammunition will not pass through the centralized receiving and shipping point. Cargo will be shipped directly to the owner with the movement organization maintaining visibility, and ammunition will go directly to the appropriate ammunition storage facility. Also called CRSP. (JP 4-01.7)"

JP 4-01.7 is Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Use of Intermodal Containers in Joint Operations.

I consulted the deputy SPO of 15th Sustainment Brigade. This is what he sent me (my comments in italics):

"The CRSP is used as a centralized pick and drop off point for all CLPs [combat logistics patrols]. The 15th SB SPO Transportaiton OIC, manages the Taji and VBC CRSP yards and they are operated by subordinate Battalions in the Brigade. The CRSP Yard provides a central location for Transportation assets [to] transfer cargo for onward movement and delivery to [a] unit. The CRSP Yard decreases shipment time for most cargo and reduces the number of transportation assets on the road. Transportation Movement Requests (TMR) [actually transportation movement releases, FM 4-01.30] are used to move any piece of cargo in theater as well as RFID tags. The Empty Container Collection Point (ECCP is also co-located in the CRSP. As stated below, it is not only containers but all cargo (containers, pallets, skids, CL VII, IX, IV). CL I, IIIB, and V, do not go to the CRSP but go to the ASP and CL I point respectively."

While consistent with JP 1-02, this interpretation isn't a perfect match. The joint definition really points to a single point in an area of operations (hence "central"), but the usage above describes multiple points.

I'd humbly suggest identifying a single CRSP and referring to other locations where these functions are performed as area distribution centers or perhaps just RSPs (receiving and shipping points). Or would this in effect be creating new terminology unnecessarily?