Choose the scope you want quoted
Door to door
Give the mover both street addresses and the access details. Ask who packs and loads, who arranges the water leg and who unloads at the new home. If different companies are involved, get the name and contact for the provider handling delivery and the company responsible for updates throughout the trip.
Port to port or a single local leg
If you are arranging freight yourself, ask whether the operator accepts the shipment format and what paperwork it needs. Get prices for local delivery and unloading separately if those services are outside your freight contract. Check whether the crew can collect the load from the terminal and what equipment it needs to do so. Compare ferry and barge shipping methods.
Put the port arrangements in writing
Confirm the departure terminal, freight cutoff or vehicle check-in, arrival location and expected release time. Ask which party pays terminal charges, how you will know when the shipment is available and who holds the goods if the last-mile crew cannot meet them. If the move uses AMHS, confirm the booking process for the actual vehicle and route. AMHS route guide and AMHS booking restrictions.
Ask how freight will be handled and protected
Explain if the load contains fragile, temperature-sensitive or oversized items. Ask how it will be packed, secured and transferred, and whether the same equipment carries it through to delivery. Check the operator’s rules for restricted goods. Confirm which company’s written terms apply at each stage and who handles a loss or damage report. See packing options for marine shipments.
Frequently asked questions
Who books the ferry or barge?
The responsible party depends on the service you buy. Ask the mover or freight operator to state who books space and handles changes. If you are booking a vehicle ferry yourself, confirm the applicable process for your equipment with the operator.
Does a freight estimate include terminal fees?
Ask the company to list handling, documentation, release and storage charges where they apply. Find out which are included and which would be billed by a separate company or only if you miss a cutoff or release window.
Can I use a local mover just for the final delivery?
Ask whether the mover serves the terminal, can collect your shipment type and can handle delivery access at your address. Confirm who authorizes release and what happens if the freight is available later than expected.
How do I plan a delivery date around a sailing?
Ask for the sailing, expected release and final delivery window as separate dates. Build the crew booking around the release window and confirm who contacts you if the sailing changes. Keep a storage or rescheduling option if you have a fixed move-in deadline.
Request Quotes for a Move With a Water Leg