Q. |
How do I know that the international carrier I choose is licensed? |
| A. |
Two things that a customer should look for in checking out a good forwarder.
1. They should have a Freight Forwarders Permit, FF-number. This license is
from the Federal Highway Commission formally the ICC.
2. A Federal Maritime Commission or FMC number.
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| Q. |
What is a lift van? |
| A. |
Lift vans are used if you'll need storage at your destination or if your shipment will not fill a steamship container.
Generally constructed of plywood, lift vans are shipping containers that have skids attached to the bottom to
permit forklift handling. They are usually lined with water-resistant paper, and may also be caulked to keep
goods dry. Once they have been caulked and loaded, steel bands are placed around the lift van to secure it.
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| Q. |
What does "loose stow" mean? (ie: loose in a 20' container)
|
| A |
Household goods are loaded directly into steamship containers. Twenty foot ocean containers have a capacity of approximately 1100 cubic feet, while standard forefoot units hold about 2200 cubic feet. Unlike lift vans, they many not be used for storage purposes.
To make effective use of an ocean container, minimum weight and volume requirements should be met, since this will result in lower transportation charges. A shipment should occupy a minimum of 700 cubic feet (approximately 4000 pounds) for
20 foot containers, and 1100 cubic feet (7000 to 8000 pounds) for 40 foot containers.
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| Q. |
What is non-temp storage, SIT storage? |
| A |
Non-temp storage is long term storage. If you are transferring overseas for a set period of time, you may elect to leave some of your belongings behind in "non-temp" storage.
SIT is storage-in-transit. Your belonging may arrive at your destination city before you are ready for delivery. You shipment can be placed in SIT as temporary storage.
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| Q. |
Are my household goods insured?
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| A |
Generally, all movers will include a certain amount of automatic liability for loss or damage to your goods. This amount can be as low as $0.10 per pound per article and generally is no higher than $0.60 per pound per article. Example; a 100 pound desk at $0.30 per pound is automatically valued at $30.00 even though it's true value may be $300.00.
If you wish to obtain insurance beyond that which is automatically included, advise your mover. We recommend that you purchase Full Replacement Value coverage, the cost of which is generally $30.00 for each $1,000.00 of coverage ordered.
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