Alas Cargo & Travel

Alas Cargo & Travel, located at 18933 Norwalk Blvd in Artesia, California, presents itself as a hybrid service provider, blending the functions of a travel agency with those of an international cargo and money remittance firm. This dual focus caters to a specific clientele, particularly those with strong ties to the Philippines, as evidenced by its specialization in "balikbayan boxes"—a cultural staple for Filipinos sending goods to family back home. The business operates seven days a week from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, offering a level of accessibility that is a significant convenience for customers with varied schedules. The physical location is also noted as having a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring it can serve a broad range of community members.

Travel and Ticketing Services

As a tourism agency, Alas Cargo & Travel provides essential services for those planning trips. Customer feedback indicates that the agency is a reliable source for purchasing "travel tickets." In an era dominated by online booking engines, the presence of a physical office with staff offers a tangible alternative for customers who prefer face-to-face interaction. The employees are frequently described as nice and genuinely helpful, attempting to provide good service even in situations where customers have other complaints. This personal touch is a key differentiator, positioning the business as a community-oriented service hub rather than an impersonal corporation. Clients seeking flight bookings or assistance with planning international travel can benefit from the direct support offered by the on-site travel consultants.

Strengths in Customer Interaction

The consistent praise for the staff's demeanor is a notable asset. Even a review that assigned a one-star rating made a point to commend the employees for being pleasant and trying their best to assist. This suggests a strong customer service culture at the employee level. For potential clients, this can be reassuring, as it implies that any transaction, whether for purchasing airline tickets or arranging a shipment, will be handled by a professional and courteous team. This human element is often what builds long-term loyalty and trust, especially within close-knit communities that rely on word-of-mouth recommendations.

Cargo and Remittance Operations

The cargo side of the business is a cornerstone of its operations. The official website confirms a suite of services including Balikbayan boxes, money remittance, and flight booking, creating a one-stop shop for the Filipino diaspora and others with similar needs. The city of Artesia itself has a significant Filipino population, with data indicating that nearly 18% of residents are of Filipino descent, making such specialized services highly relevant. The business is part of a local ecosystem of Filipino-owned establishments that serve this community. Patrons have expressed long-term satisfaction, with one customer noting they have never had a problem sending money or boxes over a five-year period. Another review praised the "very fast track service," underscoring the efficiency that many clients seek when sending important items or funds abroad.

Potential for Service Inconsistencies

However, the service is not without its occasional flaws. One client reported a positive overall experience but did mention that on one occasion, a box arrived late. This feedback provides a balanced view; while the service is generally reliable, logistical delays, which are common in international shipping, can occur. This is a realistic expectation that potential customers should consider. More concerning are reviews for other Alas Cargo locations, which mention issues with unexpected charges for bulky boxes and significant delays in package delivery, suggesting that service quality may vary across the brand. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile for Alas Cargo, though not for this specific branch, is not accredited and notes a failure to respond to some complaints, which could be a point of caution for new customers.

Points of Contention for Customers

A significant point of criticism raised by a customer at the Artesia location involves business practices, specifically a $2.00 surcharge for payments made with a credit card. The reviewer expressed frustration, believing the practice to be illegal in California. The legal landscape regarding credit card surcharges in California has been complex. However, as of July 1, 2024, California law (SB 478) prohibits businesses from adding undisclosed fees at the end of a transaction, a practice often called "drip pricing." This means any mandatory charge, including a credit card fee, must be included in the advertised price. Adding a separate surcharge at the point of sale is now effectively prohibited. Customers who are unaware of this fee until the moment of payment may feel misled, which can detract from an otherwise positive interaction with the staff. This policy is a critical piece of information for potential clients who prefer the convenience and security of paying by credit card.

Overall Assessment

Alas Cargo & Travel in Artesia serves a vital role in its community, offering a blend of travel and logistical services that are clearly in high demand. Its strengths lie in its helpful staff, convenient seven-day operating schedule, and a proven track record of reliability for many of its patrons, particularly in money remittance and cargo shipping. It functions as more than just a business; it is a facilitator of connections for families living across continents.

However, prospective customers should be aware of potential downsides. The policy of adding a credit card surcharge is a notable drawback and is out of step with current California consumer protection laws. Furthermore, while generally dependable, the shipping service is not immune to the occasional delay. By weighing the strong positive aspects—such as excellent in-person service and a comprehensive service menu—against the potential for extra fees and logistical hiccups, clients can make an informed decision about whether Alas Cargo & Travel is the right choice for their international travel and shipping needs.