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Cartwright Companies Frequently Asked Questions

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Cartwright Air Express

Cartwright International

Cartwright Logistics

Cartwright Relocation

Compass International Forwarding Inc

Cartwright Air Express

What information is needed for an accurate rate quote?
The number of pieces, weight, dimensions of each piece, and destination. If you are seeking an international quote, we will also need the commodity of each piece and the total value for customs purposes.

How is dim/volume weight calculated?
For a domestic shipment the formula is L x W X H divided by 194. For international shipments the formula is L x W x H divided by 166.

Do you have any size or weight restrictions?
With the vast number of options at our disposal we have no size or weight restrictions. We have the ability and knowledge to move any weight and any size shipment.

Are there any exceptions to what Cartwright Air Express can ship?
Due to new government regulations Cartwright Air Express is unable to ship animals, bullion, currency, human remains, toxic waste, chemicals, and certain other hazardous/dangerous goods.

What if I want a Sales Representative to call on me?
We would be happy to send a representative to see you to discuss all of your transportation needs. Simply contact us and we will have a representative get in touch with you to arrange an appointment.

What if I need a specific delivery time?
Please inform us of that in the comments field of the rate quote page.

What is your response time for online quotes?
We will respond to your rate quote request within two hours, if received by 3:00pm Central Standard Time. Otherwise, we’ll respond on the next business day.

How long is the rate quote valid?
Rate quotes are valid for thirty days.

Can the thirty day validity be extended?
Yes. We will make every effort to extend the thirty day validity of the rate quote. Please contact us if you need an extension.

What if I have more pieces/dimensions than are allowed on the form?
Please put the extra pieces and dimensions in the comment field on the rate quote page.

How do I set up an account with Cartwright Air Express?
Please fill out the credit form completely and fax it to (816) 763-7852.

What are your payment terms?
Payment is due 15 days from receipt of invoice.

What is your billing department address?
Cartwright Air Express 11901 Cartwright Avenue Grandview, MO 64030

What credit cards does Cartwright Air Express accept?
We accept MasterCard and Visa.

Will I get a receipt if I pay by phone with a credit card?
We would be happy to fax your receipt to you upon request.

Are you in compliance with all local and federal regulations?
Cartwright Air Express is in full compliance with all local, State, and Federal regulations.

Is Cartwright Air Express approved by TSA?
Cartwright Air Express is an approved indirect air carrier by the Transportation Security Administration.

Do you accept cargo from unknown shippers?
We accept cargo from unknown shippers as defined by the Transportation Security Administration. However all security measures will be followed, as outlined by TSA. Unknown shippers cannot be moved on a passenger aircraft. We will be happy to assist you in becoming a “known shipper” with Cartwright Air Express.

Do you ship explosives or firearms?
Due to regulations, we cannot ship firearms, or class A, B, or C explosives.

What are a GBL and a CBL?
A Government Bill of Lading (GBL) is a government issued document authorizing a shipments’ movement and billing. A Commercial Bill of Lading (CBL) is the same document issued by a commercial customer.

Does Cartwright Air Express offer Powertrack capabilities?
Cartwright Air Express is a certified U.S. Bank carrier for Powertrack.

Is Cartwright Air Express authorized to enter Government facilities?
Yes, Cartwright Air Express and its’ agents are authorized to pickup and deliver to all Government facilities and Military bases.

What services do you offer internationally?
Cartwright Air Express offers door to door (with clearance), door to airport (no clearance), airport to airport, and airport to door services. We also have the flexibility to tailor our services to meet your needs.

What are our Import/Export requirements?
We require the appropriate customs documents, point of contact, phone number, and customs broker information. Cartwright Air Express will be happy to assist you with all of your customs documents and broker needs.

Can you perform the customs clearance?
Yes. We have customs brokers that can perform the clearance on your behalf. There are additional forms that need to be completed prior to shipping. Please contact us if you need your shipment cleared through customs.

Can you deliver to all Countries?
No. Due to regulations we cannot ship to Cuba, North Korea, Iran, and certain other countries. Please contact us for additional information.

Can you arrange imports from other countries?
Yes. Cartwright Air Express is a total transportation provider. We can arrange for imports from all over the world to the United States, and also between two foreign countries. Please contact us for all of your transportation needs.

Can you define the domestic services that you offer?
NFO: Next Flight Out. Shipment will be picked up immediately and be on board the first flight available to the destination airport. Overnight: Shipment will be delivered by 5:00 pm the next day. Second Day: Shipment will be delivered by 5:00 pm the second day. Deferred: Shipment will be delivered within three to five business days. Cartwright Air Express also offers custom tailored services to meet your shipping demands. Please contact us for all of your special shipping needs.

Cartwright International

What is a Move Manager and why do I need one?
A Move Manager is like a personal move coordinator who helps you tie all the loose ends together. You are not required to use our services, but we can help you do things like track your shipment, settle a claim, and give you information about your Traffic Office so that your shipment gets to you when you in a more timely fashion. Just make sure to give us your email and phone numbers and we’ll do the rest.

I keep hearing that I need to give someone my contact phone numbers and my email address -- who do I give that to, and why?
We want to be able to assist you quickly and efficiently when you need our help. By providing us with contact information you can be assured that we can find you while your move is in progress. We request the following information to better serve you: Origin Phone Number – please don’t disconnect the telephone until the end of the last day of loading. Origin Cell Phone Number In-Transit Contact Number - a number where we could leave word for you while you’re in transit. Please also provide us with a home or cell phone number at Destination as well.

What is a GBL Number, and why do I need to keep it with me?
“GBL” stands for the “Government Bill of Lading” and is the individual tracking number that all Military and Government moves are given. You will need this to self track your shipment on line and in order to file a claim for loss or damage, should the need arise. If you don’t know it please call our Move Management Department and ask one of our helpful representatives to help you find it.

I know I need to carry certain items with me, but I don’t have a lot of room. Which are the most important items?
Please plan to take the paperwork you were given by your Transportation Office at the start of your move, and any contact information for your Move Management Coordinator. You’ll need your GBL number in order to self track your shipment online so please keep it with you. It’s also important to carry with you any irreplaceable documents, travel documents, airline tickets, and papers for school enrollment, home closing papers, address books, health insurance information, identification, and prescription medicines. When traveling with children it’s also a good idea to have a backpack for older toddlers and children with activities to help them pass the time while waiting for flights and baggage. There may also be items that the movers cannot transport due to their extreme value or uniqueness. When you speak to your Origin Agent these items should be discussed. Items of extreme value and/or uniqueness may include collections, coins and currency, jewelry, stamp collections, investments, and stock certificates.

This is my first International relocation. How will my household goods be packed?
When the packing team arrives at your home, your personal belongings will be placed in appropriate cartons or containers. To protect your goods from damage, items will be individually wrapped in paper pads, or padded fabric, as needed. Made of shock-absorbing fiber, the paper pads are used exclusively for international relocations. The fabric pads serve as protection for fine surfaces during the move.

How will my shipment be loaded?
Once your shipment has been completely packed, it will be placed inside one or more containers, depending upon the weight of your shipment. The type of containers selected will depend on the mode of transportation, the size of your shipment and your destination. Your shipment can be loaded into one or more of the following: Lift-vans Steamship containers Air containers A lift-van is a wooden container with skids that is normally loaded by a forklift. Lined with water-resistant paper and caulked to prevent leakage, lift-vans might range in size from 185 to 210 cubic feet; the containers are supplied by steamship companies. To transport small shipments by air, the most common containers used are tri-wall boxes. These are very large triple-layer corrugated cardboard boxes that range in size from five to 100 cubic feet.

I have some items that I am especially concerned about moving. How can I prepare them for the move?
In the moving industry, items having a value of more than $100 per pound are known as "articles of extraordinary value." All "articles of extraordinary value" in your shipment must be listed on the High-Value Inventory form which will be given to you by the Origin Agent’s Representative to complete. Although you might have other articles of extraordinary value, the following list should help you identify items that might fall under this classification: furs, art collections, crystal, figurines, antiques, Oriental rugs, precious stones or gems, china and silverware. In the event of a claim, any settlement involving an article of extraordinary value listed on the High-Value Inventory form is limited to the value of the article, not to exceed the declared value of the shipment, based upon the valuation program applicable to your shipment. If an article of extraordinary value is not listed on the form, the van lines maximum liability is limited to $100 per pound per article. Shipments that move under the Released Rate Liability program, in which the declared value of the shipment would be 60 cents per pound per article, would not be covered by the provisions applicable to articles of extraordinary value. If you have items that you feel are of value exceeding the norm discuss these items with your origin agent and plan to fill out a High Value Inventory at the time of your move. Also to protect yourself financially, take pictures of your furniture and valuables as proof of ownership in the event of loss or damage. In addition, photograph anything that might need to be disassembled for transit so the destination crew will know how to reassemble the items.

Are there items that I cannot move?
Yes, there are a number of common household items that cannot be transported in your International shipment. You will be provided with a comprehensive list by your T.O. or Relocation Consultant, but here are some general categories: Aerosols, Flammables, Cleaning Agents, Combustibles, Perishables, Plants, Ammunition, Paints, Building Materials, and Auto Parts. Some other items are not covered under the transit protection (cargo protection/ valuation) and thus you cannot claim for loss or damage of such items. You should plan to take these items with you: Jewelry, Coin or Stamp Collections, Stock Certificates, Rare Items, Currency, Important Documents. For more information please refer to a link in our website to “Your Rights and Responsibilities”.

Can I move my houseplants?
Unfortunately, houseplants are not allowed in International shipments. Please make arrangements for someone to tend to your plants while you’re away or donate them to a friend, family member, or charity.

What about my pets?
Please visit with your Transportation Office when you set up your move to get tips on moving pets. If you know which commercial airline you’ll be flying they can be valuable sources of information as well. Please take into account the time of year you’ll be traveling when considering the special needs of your pets as some airlines cannot provide temperature controlled environments during transit.

I may need Temporary Storage. Is there anything I should know if my shipment is going into storage?
In most cases, you will not need to authorize Storage in Transit with your Traffic Office before the shipment is placed into storage. Most branches of the Military authorize it. If you are a Government employee please check with your Traffic Office. Please do not put items in storage that you may need to access. Your goods will be stored in palletized storage vaults in a designated Cartwright agent’s warehouse. Your goods will not be accessible to you. Each shipment will be placed into storage in a Government approved storage facility with minimal handling. In most instances the shipment will remain in the same crates in which it was transported.

How do I prepare my computer, TV, DVD, stereo, and VCR for the move?
Computers and printers require special care. Wires and cables need to be disconnected and a blank floppy disk may need to be inserted in your PC to protect the disk drive. Monitors and hardware should be wrapped similar to other home electronics. We recommend that you backup your system on to floppy disks and take them with you during the move. Flat Screen Televisions and monitors need special care. Please contact your manufacturer for proper moving instructions. Other types of personal entertainment equipment generally do quite well in transit. The best way to move electronic components is in their original cartons with the original packing materials. You can do this yourself but if you do not have these cartons, we will carefully pack everything in your entertainment center for you.

Do my appliances need special attention?
Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to ensure safe transportation. Any moving parts such as motors on major appliances, washer drums, icemakers and the pickup arm on a phonograph should be securely fastened for shipment. Gas appliances need to be serviced and disconnected prior to your move. It is the owners responsibility to see that appliances are serviced for shipment before they are loaded on the van. Upon request and for an additional charge, a moving company will perform this service, using either its own qualified personnel or an authorized service company. For more information on servicing and cleaning appliances for moving, ask your Origin Agent.

I am at my destination and would like my shipment to be delivered, whom do I contact?
You will want to contact your Transportation Office to make final delivery arrangements once you have obtained housing. Please call them and give them your delivery address, as well as any directions, or accessorial information they may need (i.e. Is there a long distance between the front of your residence where the truck would park and your front door? Is there ample room to safely park a tractor trailer unit?) If you’re a military member you can locate your Transportation Office (Inbound Traffic ) by using this link: http://afmove.hq.af.mil/page_sched_deliv.asp It is also helpful to contact your Move Management Coordinator at Cartwright Van Lines.

My children are a bit concerned about the move. Any suggestions for how to make this an easier transition for them?
Please see our web page titled “Preparing Children for an International Move” for a timely and comprehensive look at helping children cope with this transition.

I only have limited time in which to accept my shipment. How can I arrange for a guaranteed one-day delivery?
When delivery is set up you will be assigned a delivery spread, usually five business days, by the Transportation Office. This spread is given so that the Van Line has ample time to work your shipment into their delivery schedule. During the peak season this delivery spread may lengthen as the number of people in line for delivery is so lengthy. If you are coming out of Temporary Storage, the delivery spread you will be given will depend upon the weight of your shipment and the Van Lines schedule.

Why did the moving company give me so many days to pack and load my shipment? They could’ve been here for one full day rather than two, or three, half days.
Your shipment is assigned a certain number of days to pack and load based upon the total estimated weight. Due to scheduling conflicts and the number of other shipments, the mover is not always able to avail themselves of a truck and trailer unit when the packers are finished packing. This sometimes leads to delays of one, or more days. Remember that moving in the off season will lesson the likelihood that you will have to wait for such services.

Cartwright Logistics

What types of equipment are available to me?
Please see our diagram for complete information about the varied equipment that Cartwright Logistics has to offer. If you have specialized needs please contact us.

What types of things can I ship with Cartwright Logistics?
We want to be your one-stop solution for all of your Truck Load needs. We handle FAK, or freight of all kinds, excluding explosives, ammunition, and livestock. Whether it’s one truckload a week or one a year - we want you to call us with complete confidence that we will get it there when you want it there.

How much does it cost?
Our prices are based upon a per-mile charge, plus the cost of fuel and specialized equipment. Call us now for a free estimate.

How long does it take to transport my goods with Cartwright Logistics?
With our expedited service you can get your shipment delivered in as little as one business day, but most transit times are based upon the miles the shipment has to travel and the number of days it will take the driver to get there, plus loading and unloading time. The DOT, Department of Transportation, has strict limits on the number of hours and miles a driver can travel within a 24 hour period.

Do you have references?
We have been around a long time and we are very proud of the long term relationships that we have built with our customers. We would love to share their testimonials with you – call us.

How do you handle damages?
We understand that mistakes sometimes happen and want you to be “made right” again as quickly as possible. That’s why we handle your claims in-house. We have coverage up to $100,000.00 and offer additional coverage at very competitive rates.

Cartwright Relocation

I keep hearing that I need to give someone my contact phone numbers and my email address -- who do I give that to, and why?
We want to be able to assist you quickly and efficiently when you need our help. By providing us with contact information you can be assured that we can find you while your move is in progress. We request the following information to better serve you: Origin Phone Number – please don’t disconnect the telephone until the end of the last day of loading. Origin Cell Phone Number In-Transit Contact Number - a number where we could leave word for you while you’re in transit. Destination Phone Number Destination Cell Phone Number

I am at my destination and would like my shipment to be delivered, whom do I contact?
You will want to contact your Transportation Office to make final delivery arrangements once you have obtained housing. Please call them and give them your delivery address, as well as any directions, or accessorial information they may need (i.e. Is there a long distance between the front of your residence where the truck would park and your front door? Is there ample room to safely park a tractor trailer unit?) If you’re a military member you can locate your Transportation Office (Inbound Traffic ) by using this link: http://afmove.hq.af.mil/page_sched_deliv.asp It is also helpful to inform your Move Management Coordinator at Cartwright Van Lines. Use this link for our contact information: Contact Us

Compass International Forwarding Inc

How do I get started with my move?
Please fill out our on-line rate request form or contact us so we can get a better idea of the services you will require. We will respond with a rate and answer any questions you may have.

I have received quotes from other companies for door to door services, but they did not include origin packing/loading or destination unloading/unpacking. Are these services included in your door to door rates?
Unlike many of our competitors, Compass International Forwarding includes origin packing/loading and destination unloading/unpacking in our door to door moves. Our door to door service includes packing, loading, delivery to ground floor residence destination, unloading, unpacking, and removal of debris on day of delivery.

Who will be performing origin services at my current residence?
Compass International has a dependable network of reliable agents worldwide to conduct local services.

Should I do any packing myself?
Unless otherwise requested, your quote will include full door to door service, which includes packing at origin. Also keep in mind, many third party insurance companies will not cover damages to contents in boxes that were not packed by professional movers.

How long will it be until I receive my goods at destination?
Depending on your destination, after the origin agent picks up your goods, please allow 1-3 weeks for your goods to arrive at the destination port. When your goods arrive at the destination port, please allow 3-5 business days for the ocean line to release your goods to be picked up by your port agent. Please allow 1-3 weeks (depending on destination) for the port agent to deliver your goods to the destination agent. When your goods physically arrive at the destination agent, they will contact you to schedule delivery to residence on their/your earliest available date.

I made a partial payment at origin, how can I pay my C.O.D. balance due at Destination?
Please be prepared to remit any C.O.D. amount due at time of delivery before the delivery crew begins unloading. Payments may be made in the form of a cashiers check or money order (no cash or personal checks please) made payable to Compass International Forwarding, Inc. Payments may also be made via most major credit cards, for a small fee, over the phone any time prior to delivery.

Will there be any additional charges not originally quoted?
There may be additional charges if you require storage, or the residence requires additional handling that was unknown at the time of the original quote due to stairs, elevators, or access problems.

What types of insurance coverage do you offer?
In addition to the standard no-cost limited liability; Compass International Forwarding offers no deductible full-value replacement through the industry leading, third party insurance carrier, TGI.

Should I purchase third party insurance?
Please keep in mind that the standard limited liability is offered at no cost to you; but although we do not anticipate any reason to file a claim, in the unlikely event there were some damages to your property, the maximum liability would be limited to 60 cents per pound per article. Example: a chair weighing 100 lbs. would have a maximum settlement of $60.00.

In the unlikely event there are some damages to my property, how do I file a claim?
If your move is inbound (to the continental U.S.) and booked by another company, please contact that company regarding insurance/claims procedures. If your move is outbound (from the continental U.S.) and booked by Compass International Forwarding, Inc., please contact us to initiate any claim that you may have for damages.