5 Things to ask a moving company before you move

by Fatima Calderon
Your moving date is coming up in a few months, and you are asking for prices and quotes. You may get "bombarded" by moving companies and individuals trying to win your business.

One way to create a shortlist of potential movers, and to spot potential red flags, is to ask these movers these questions, designed to show their credentials.

If a mover doesn't comply, doesn't know, or says the issue is not really important, simply ditch them, even if their price seems very competitive, especially if the price is much, much cheaper than the others, just move on - you have plenty of others to pick from.

Questions to ask:

• Are you licensed? This is the first question, to make sure they are qualified. Make sure they prove it by providing their DOT # and FMC # - and oh, check them both online to make sure their permits are clean.
• Is Customs Clearance included in your price? Both export and import clearances should be included.
• Are port charges included? At least the origin port charges should be included. Destination port charges cannot always be included in the price, for various reasons (for another discussion), but if the destination charges are not included, they should *at least* give you an estimate of how much to expect, so that you can budget your out-of-pocket expenses.
• What about insurance? Minimum liability should be included, and if that's not enough protection for your valuables (it often isn't enough), they should offer full risk insurance too and explain the additional cost.
• Can you give me a written quote? Make sure the quote lists all the inclusions and exclusions (see the other questions above), and that you understand the total price, terms, and conditions.

You can download or print the infographic below, to help you remember what to ask a potential mover.

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September highlights

September was still peak moving season across the globe. As we spoke with colleagues and agents, they all seemed to agree that the industry was still very busy.

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How are we handling the container weight verification requirements?

Implementing the SOLAS container weight verification requirements.

by Fatima Calderon 

As most of us in the shipping industry know, the new SOLAS requirement becomes effective from July 1, 2016.

In short, the regulation specifies that the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) of each container is proven and provided to the US Coast Guard and the International Maritime Organization, prior to loading into a vessel.

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Understanding Insurance Options

by Fatima Calderon
When it comes to moving, we always suggest to our customers to purchase coverage above the basic liability.
Moving insurance is crucial for protection against any damage to your personal belongings. Even when you are dealing with the most professional, delicate, and responsible movers, human errors and accidents are real possibilities.

When it comes to protecting your move, you have options from basic liability to various levels of protection.

We have prepared this Infographic that can give you a good understanding on the options available to you.

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The role of the mover in cargo insurance claims

by Fatima Calderon

I want to share this article from AirCargo World.

Although the cause for insurance claims that has to do with "cargo packing" is the lowest of all figures, it still amounts to $41MIL losses, and as the article says, bad packing can also lead to other causes, such as fires.

To me, what this study signifies is that there is still a lot of work to be done in improving packing and we in the moving industry have to be selective when we choose partners to work with so that these risks can be minimized.

For people moving, this study highlights the importance of choosing a reputable moving company that will use proper packing materials and will have only professionals handling the items.

Read the full study HERE.

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