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Frequently Asked Questions - Vehicles

Table of Contents

  1. How do I get to TOTE's Tacoma and Anchorage terminals?
  2. What are the hours of operation for TOTE's vehicle department?
  3. How long will it take to get my vehicle after it is shipped?
  4. Is the vehicle registration required?
  5. How do I pay?
  6. Can I ship personal effects - what does it cost?
  7. Does TOTE accept credit card payments over the phone?
  8. How are vehicles stored on the ship?
  9. Who is responsible for any damage while my vehicle is in TOTE's possession?
  10. Is transportaion available after dropping off my vehicle?
  11. What are the Hazardous Materials considerations I need to be aware of when shipping my vehicle?

Answers

  1. How do I get to TOTE's Tacoma and Anchorage terminals?

    Map & Driving Directions: click Tacoma Terminal

    Map & Driving Directions: click Anchorage Terminal

  2. What are the hours of operation for TOTE's Vehicle Departments?

    Both Tacoma and Anchorage Vehicle Departments are open M-F - 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

    Specific Drop off and Pick up Hours:

    • Tacoma
      • Pickup
        • Open Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
      • Drop off
        • Wednesday and Friday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
        • Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
    • Anchorage
      • Pickup
        • Open Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
      • Drop off
        • Open Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  3. How long will it take to get my vehicle after it is shipped?

    Northbound:

    • If your vehicle departs on our Thursday morning ship, it is available for pick up at the Anchorage Terminal the following Monday.
    • If your vehicle departs on the Saturday morning ship, it will be available for pick up in Anchorage on Tuesday afternoon.
    • We suggest calling our Anchorage Vehicle Department, at 1-800-234-8683, to verify your vehicle is available.

    Southbound:

    • If your vehicle departs on our Tuesday afternoon ship, it is available for pick up at the Tacoma Terminal the following Monday.
    • If your vehicle departs on the Sunday afternoon ship, it will be available for pick up in Tacoma on Thursday morning.
    • We suggest calling our Tacoma Vehicle Department at 1-800-426-0074 to verify your vehicle is available.
  4. Is the vehicle registration required?

    No, however you do need picture ID at time of pickup.

  5. How do I pay?

    Click the following link: Payment Information

  6. Can I ship personal effects - what does it cost?

    You may ship up to 15 lbs of personal effects in the vehicle at no charge.

    Call the TOTE Quote Department 253-449-8248 or 1-800-426-0074 or, E-mail: quote@totemocean.com for a quote on more than 15 lbs.

  7. Does TOTE accept credit card payments over the phone?

    No, credit card payments must be made in person.

  8. How are vehicles stored on the ship?

    Vehicles are not loaded into a container. Vehicles are driven on board and secured to the deck via lashing points under the vehicle. Your vehicle will be stowed on special Vehicle Decks. This is the same method that Daimler Chrysler and General Motors use to ship all their new cars to Alaska.

    In certain specific situations of low ground clearance (<5") or high vehicle value, we may advise you to have your vehicle loaded onto a flat bed trailer.

  9. Who is responsible for any damage while my vehicle is in TOTE's possession?

    Your vehicle is normally covered during shipment by TOTE for the market value up to a maximum of $20 per lb. Minor damages are repaired at the lower of two estimates.

    RVs and Travel Trailers can have different coverage, based on the rate level. For information click RV Program.

  10. Is transportation available after dropping off my vehicle?

    We have a courtesy phone in our lobby to call a taxi or shuttle if you have not made prior arrangements.

  11. What are the Hazardous Materials considerations I need to be aware of when shipping my vehicle?

    TOTE does not permit the shipment of any Hazardous Material except for minimal amounts of standard fuels inside vehicles. Please read our "Hazardous Materials Guide" for detailed information.