Begin at the pickup handoff
Confirm the inventory, packing responsibility, loading access and paperwork before collection. Ask how the provider records condition and how you receive copies. Make sure the on-site contact can answer questions about the agreed scope.
If the inventory changes, ask for a written explanation of any effect on price or services. Keep a record of the provider’s contact details for the next stage.
Understand the proposed mode
An overland plan may involve road transportation through Canada. An ocean or multimodal plan may involve collection, terminal handling, a waterborne leg and onward delivery. Which arrangement is suitable depends on the provider, route, shipment and service plan.
Ask for the actual proposed stages. Confirm any shipment documentation, contents restrictions and packing requirements with the provider; do not use a general website diagram as routing instructions.
Make the handoffs visible
Ask whether different parties handle pickup, transport and delivery, and who remains your primary contact. Find out whether goods may be consolidated or stored and how that is reflected in the proposal.
Request an explanation of milestone updates, delay communications and how changes in your receiving address are handled. A departure milestone is not the same as a confirmed delivery appointment.
Close the journey at the destination
Prepare the final address, access permissions and someone available to receive. Review how the provider documents delivery and how you should report discrepancies or damage concerns under its terms.
Your written agreement should identify services, payment arrangements, timing language and applicable loss or damage protection. Ask the selected provider to explain those details before booking.
Questions before you go
What does multimodal mean here?
It means a shipment uses more than one type of transportation, such as road and ocean stages. The selected provider defines the actual arrangement.
Who supplies the transportation plan?
The selected moving provider supplies the transportation method, service scope, timing and terms for your move.