Frequently Asked Questions

General

Who is MTravel.com?
MTravel.com is the independent contractor division of Montrose Travel. Montrose Travel is the actual host agency and has been working with IC’s since 1973. We are a family owned and operated company with small town values and service levels, but significant size and buying power. We are a Top 5 Host Agency and a Top 50 Travel Company nationwide.

How long has MTravel.com been in business?
MTravel.com is a division of Montrose Travel. Montrose Travel has been in business since 1956 and under the same family ownership since 1973. We have a proven track record with independent contractors, our suppliers and our customers.

How long does it take to get my business started with you?
For home based agents, from the time we receive your signed online application and annual fee, it takes about 5 business days to get you set up. For local agents with an established clientele who are interested in moving in with us, we sit down and map out a timetable. Generally, we’re at the mercy of the phone company if you will be bringing your business phone number with you.

What programs do you offer?
We have three programs, for Established Agents, Experienced Agents and people “New To The Industry,” that are detailed on this site. (See “Commissions/Fees” for a complete breakdown of commission splits and fees). In addition, if you reside in the Los Angeles County (or close enough to commute to Montrose) and do at least $250,000 in annual volume, we offer the opportunity to obtain desk space, complete technology and support in-house. This is a great option for agency owners wishing to reduce overhead, increase profits and still maintain their identity. For more information, please email IC@montrosetravel.com or call (800) 870-5799.

If I begin as an Experienced Agent, what’s the criteria for advancing to the Established Agent level to earn higher commissions?
Once you’ve achieved at least $10,000 in commissions in a year, you are eligible to upgrade to our Established Agent level. Upon approval to advance, you will pay the incremental fee (difference between the Experienced and Established Level fees) and all new bookings will be eligible to receive the new commission split.

If I am moving from another host and want to join MTravel.com at the Established Agent level, what proof is required?
You will need to provide us with either a 1099 or copies of pay stubs from your host.

How does the MTravel.com host agency program differ from the others?
The primary differences are: (1) you only pay one annual fee to participate without a lot of optional add-ons that get costly. Based on our review of other host agency programs, this is extremely cost effective and affordable, and (2) it is a very comprehensive program from technology, commissions, marketing, support to training. We believe our program will exceed your expectations of a host agency.

Who do I contact for more information or to get started?
For more information, simply email IC@montrosetravel.com or call (800) 870-5799. Or if you’re ready to sign up now, just click on the “Join Now” tab on this site and complete the online application.

Are there any productivity requirements?
Yes and No. The "Established Agent" program requires a minimum of $10,000 in commissions annually. Recent proof of volume is required via 1099 or check stubs. The other programs have no productivity requirements.

What is the term of the agreement?
12 months from the receipt of your annual fee.

Will I retain ownership of my clients?
Absolutely. You are a self-employed independent contractor and your client list is yours.

Am I considered an Independent Contractor or an Employee with your program?
An Independent Contractor. Participation with MTravel.com means you are self-employed and will be paid with a 1099 annually. We do not withhold taxes from your commission payments.

What travel organizations is Montrose Travel a member of?
We’re a member of all the significant, relevant industry organizations such as ARC, IATA, IATAN, CLIA, ASTA, ARTA, PATH, OSSN, NACTA and Ensemble Travel (formerly GIANTS). See “Affiliations” on this site for details.

How much commission does Montrose Travel earn from its suppliers?
Montrose Travel works with a supplier list worldwide too numerous to count. However, our Preferred Suppliers for leisure travel (cruises, tours, and packages) range from 12-18% with key suppliers. A complete list of these suppliers is available on our Agent Connex Support Site. Hotels and car rental companies pay 5% to 10%. Our on-line dynamic packaging program for agents offers you the ability to determine your mark-up on customized packages. In general, most airlines are no longer paying commissions and we generate income from service fees charged; however, airline consolidators continue to offer net fares, so you can control your own markup.

What commission split does MTravel.com pay?
The standard commission paid is 80% to Established Home Based Agents, 70% to Experienced Home Based Agents and 50% to those New to the Industry. There are some deviations from this pattern noted in the “Commissions/Fees” section of this site.

For Local Agents utilizing our office space and technology, the base split is 50% plus volume-based bonuses. There are some deviations from this pattern noted in the “Commissions/Fees” section of this site.

What type of travel products can I sell through MTravel.com?
We are a full service travel company. Therefore, you have the ability to sell any type of leisure, corporate and group/meeting/incentive travel…airline tickets, hotels, car rentals, cruises, packages, tours, rail, charter buses, travel insurance, incentive certificates and more.

As a Home Based Agent, are there any other costs that I need to be aware of?
Other than the annual fee (or renewal fee in subsequent years), the only other optional add-on is the GDS (Galileo/Apollo) at $15/month available to Established and Experienced Agents only. The complete fee structure for delivery and transactions is outlined in the “Commissions/Fees” section of this site.

If I begin as an Inexperienced Agent, what’s the criteria for advancing to the Experienced Agent level to earn higher commissions?
First, the reason for our two tiered program is that home-based agents who are new to the industry generally need more assistance along the way. This isn’t a cut and dry business and there are many questions that come up (and rightly so) when you’re first learning and dealing with the money and time of your clients. We’ve taken this into consideration. In general, you will be eligible to advance to the Experienced Agent Level upon the completion of one year in the industry. While we’ve set this criteria for advancing, the timing is flexible based on your personal progress. Upon approval to advance, you will pay the incremental fee (difference between the Inexperienced and Experienced Level fees) and all new bookings will be eligible to receive the new commission split.

What other expenses can I expect while operating my business?
The MTravel.com home-based business is structured to operate with very little overhead. The basic expenses that any business would incur would most likely be required such as tax advisor fees, shipping, marketing, office supplies, domain name, software, Internet access and phone charges. MTravel.com allows you to operate a low cost, high profit travel agency at a fraction of the cost of a traditional agency.

Will I receive tax benefits?
It’s entirely possible. In general, the IRS lets self-employed people deduct customary business expenses such as your setup fee, hardware, office furniture purchases, advertising, supplies, etc. We recommend that you talk with your tax advisor about your specific situation.

What are MTravel.com’s support hours?
Of course, you have access to your agent site 24/7. You will also be provided with access to our 24 hour emergency service for clients. Our normal business hours for support are Monday-Thursday 7:30am – 6:30pm, Friday 9:30am – 6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am – 3:00pm (Pacific Standard Time).

Can MTravel.com assist my clients when I am on vacation?
Yes. We will gladly cover for you when you’re away from the office. Please see the change in commission split detailed in the “Commissions/Fees” section of this site.

Can I have brochures shipped to me?
Yes. Your Agent Connex Support Site is equipped with an on-line brochure order form. You may specify which brochures you want and they can be shipped to you or your client directly. The cost depends on the method of shipment, and the details are available under “Commissions/Fees” on this site. However, most of our agents have been ordering directly from the suppliers to avoid double shipping.

Is Montrose Travel a multi-level marketing (MLM) or network marketing company?
No. MLM companies offer a completely different business model with emphasis on recruiting other agents and may offer “referral programs”. For people who are serious about building a travel business, a professional host travel agency like ours would be more to your liking. We do not expect you to spend your time recruiting people; in fact, we’d prefer you cultivate your travel clientele and build your travel business.

Do I need to be “certified” to become a home based travel agent?
No. There is no specific certification required to operate your own home based travel agency. We do, however, encourage you to get educated about the industry and can recommend a variety of ways to go about it.

Groups

I would love to sell groups, but don’t know where to start. Can you help?
Absolutely, that’s what we’re here for. In fact, we happen to be a huge fan of group travel and have established four group training sessions that are generally offered quarterly. We review the basics of the group business including prospecting, negotiating with suppliers, drafting success-oriented proposals, client agreements, closing and handling the business. And, we’re here to advise you along the way.

Is it possible for me to travel free?
Absolutely! If you promote group travel, you’ll not only earn higher commission dollars, but you’ll also be able to travel free with your group. Suppliers offer “comps” based on a specified number of people traveling at the normal group rate. This varies depending on the type of travel (cruises vs. hotel rooms vs. packages vs. tours) and the supplier. The bottom line is that we HIGHLY RECOMMEND developing a group business. You’ll be able to learn more about group travel on our agent support site.

Do you offer blocked space cruises?
Yes. We offer an outstanding roster of hundreds of blocked space cruise sailings on many of the top cruiselines….Princess, Carnival, NCL, Radisson and Holland America to name a few. Destinations include Mexico, Caribbean, Europe, South Pacific, Hawaii, and Alaska. In addition, you’ll have access to another 500 worldwide sailings through the Ensemble Travel blocked space program. You have the ability to sell your FIT or group clients into our space to take advantage of value-added amenities and superior group pricing.

Training

What type of training does MTravel.com offer?
Take your education as far as you want to go. We provide the most extensive library of on-line content and training links available. In addition, you can participate in one to three weekly teleconferences on a variety of topics developed to help you maximize profits and increase your product knowledge. You’ll also be eligible to go on “fams” (familiarization trips designed to educate you on specific destinations and products).

What if I’m unable to attend some training sessions? Will the information still be available to me?
Yes. Not only do we post copies of Powerpoint presentations, we also record most in-house sessions that we conduct. So don’t fret if you can’t make it live. You can still learn!

I’m new to the industry. Does MTravel.com offer any basic travel industry training?
We offer a complete suite of travel agent training courses for those wanting a educational foundation. Individual courses start at $79 each. In addition, we’ve bundled some of the key courses at a discounted rate. See www.MTravelschool.com for details and an application.

Does MTravel.com offer FAM trips?
IC’s with MTravel.com will have access to fam trips offered by suppliers. In order to take advantage of these, you must provide the supplier with the required eligibility such as an IATAN card, business card, etc. (determined by the supplier). For your convenience, fam trip information is provided on your Agent Connex Support Site.

GDS/Air Travel

What GDS system does MTravel.com offer?
Galileo/Apollo is our primary system.

What is Apollo and why would I need it?
Apollo is our Global Distribution System. Its primary function is to allow us to book and issue airline tickets. However, you can also book hotels, cars, rail, cruises, tours, and packages on it as well. The only reason you’d need it is to handle a high volume of airline tickets because it allows you to set your own service fees per ticket (and control your profit). If you do not think you’ll be doing a lot of air ticketing (defined as 20+ tickets per month), then you’ll be able to use our Private Labeled Website to book air as well as these other products. In addition, you may use consolidators to book international travel and determine your own mark-up.

Do I need to learn any complicated formats?
No and yes. If you are a new user, you can simply access Apollo using our point and click version of Viewpoint. However, for some types of transactions, you may need to use regular Apollo formats. If you are an experienced Apollo user, you may use your native formats.

Do I need to know Apollo if I’m going to handle corporate travel?
Absolutely. Corporate travel is a different animal altogether. It requires a full time commitment and extensive knowledge of the GDS to properly service your customers.

Can I use air consolidators?
Yes. We recommend always checking consolidator pricing to properly service your customers and to maximize your profit.

Accounting/Commissions/Fees

How are my bookings communicated to your accounting department for payment?
Your bookings completed on the MTravel.com website (your bookings and your client’s direct bookings from your Private Labeled Website) are automatically tracked to our accounting system. No forms to fill out. However, if you book direct with a supplier by phone or on-line, you will need to submit an on-line booking form to us.

If you are working exclusively in Apollo, your bookings automatically transact to our accounting system. No additional forms to fill out.

How often do I get paid?
Monthly. You will receive payment of all travel commissions earned by the 15th of the month following the date of travel.

When do I get paid on my bookings?
In general, you get paid once Montrose Travel gets paid. While Montrose Travel assists in commission collections, it is the IC’s responsibility to ensure that the commission has been paid to Montrose Travel. If a supplier “goofs”, the IC needs to follow up with the supplier regarding past due commissions. If a booking is paid by credit card to the supplier directly, the supplier must remit the commission via check. This usually takes several weeks after travel is completed. If the supplier is paid by agency check, we try to remit final payment “net” of commission; therefore, we can pay you by the 15th of the month following travel. Airline tickets issued through Apollo or your Private Labeled Website, are posted to your account during the month issued.

Can I charge service fees to my clients?
Absolutely. As an IC, you are self-employed and operating your own business. You have the right to charge fees at your discretion.

Does MTravel.com charge any transaction fees?
Yes. These fees are detailed in the “Commissions/Fees” section of this site. We believe you’ll find these to be competitive with most host agencies. And, most of these fees can be passed through to your customer.

Do I need a credit card merchant account?
No. All credit cards are charged by Montrose Travel’s merchant account or our suppliers.

Are there any fees to process airline tickets?
Yes. If you book airline tickets on your Private Labeled Website, there is an automatic fee of $10/ticket service fee programmed into the price. $5 of the $10 is paid to you. Consolidator pricing on your Private Labeled website offers a higher service fee structure. If you are an experienced agent and are booking through Apollo, you may charge any fee you wish. You will pay a $13 fee to Montrose Travel for any total service fee of $50 or less OR for any total service fee of $51+, the fee is split 50%/50%.

Do I earn commission on my own personal reservations?
Yes, as long as they are commissionable. Fams and other reduced rate travel are not commissionable.

How does MTravel.com track my commissions?
Any booking you make on your Private Labeled Website or Apollo is automatically entered into our accounting system, coded with your agent ID for tracking. Any bookings that you make directly with a supplier by phone or on the supplier website must be submitted to our accounting system via a Booking Form.

How can I see my commission reports?
You may view them at any time day or night on your agent support site under “My Account.”

Travel Benefits

Do you offer the IATAN card?
Yes. To qualify for an IATAN card, an IC must work a minimum of 20 hours per week and earn a minimum of $5000 in commissions annually.

Do you offer the CLIA card?
Yes. To qualify, you must complete the required CLIA training, application and pay the fee. An application is provided for you on your Agent Connex Support Site.

Do you offer a Montrose Travel “card”?
No. Any card issued by a travel agency is essentially worthless from a travel benefit standpoint. Suppliers, in general, do not recognize them.

If I already have an IATAN or CLIA card from a previous agency, may I transfer to MTravel.com?
Yes. All you need to do is complete the transfer paperwork and submit it to us.

Technology

What type of computer do I need?
Our Home-Based Agent Program runs on the Internet. As long as the computer you have offers Internet access and you have your own email address, you’re in business.

What equipment do I need to operate this business?
You need a computer, internet access (preferably high speed), an email account and Microsoft Internet Explorer (recommended). We would also recommend a separate business phone line, fax machine or software to receive faxes, office desk or area to conduct business and a toll-free number (if you’ll be doing business with people out of your area code). Mostly you need motivation and determination to be in the travel industry.

What Internet Service Provider do I use for my connection to MTravel.com?
You may use your current provider. We recommend having a high speed connection, either DSL or cable.

What Internet browser do I use?
We recommend Microsoft Explorer 6.0 or above, however the latest releases of Firefox, Safari and Netscape can also be used.

How can you help me market my website?
We can offer advice and support on how to market your site to increase your online visibility and drive incremental traffic to your site. In addition, your site is set up with Google Analytics to track your traffic.

If I reside in your office as a Local Agent, how will my clients find me?
We encourage you to bring your business phone number(s) with you. We will program our system to allow your calls to ring directly to your phone. We also provide you with a “direct dial” phone line. If you do not answer your phone, your calls can go to voicemail.

What email system will I use as a Local Agent in your office?
We will provide you with Groupwise software to access your email. In addition, we will provide you with a MontroseTravel.com email address.

Setting Up My Travel Business

As an independent contractor, do I need to get licensed and bonded?
Montrose Travel is bonded and licensed as a seller of travel within the state of California. Since you are technically making bookings under our ARC number and collecting checks payable to Montrose Travel, there is no need for you to get bonded. In addition, Montrose Travel is a registered seller of travel in Nevada, Washington, and Iowa. Montrose Travel is exempt from registration under the Florida Sellers of Travel Act. Please check with your local and state governments about any specific regulations that may apply to you.

Do I need to worry about state seller of travel laws?
You will need to determine if you reside in a state that has a seller of travel law. If you do, be sure to review the details of the requirements. Some states require you to fill out an exemption form as an independent contractor. You are responsible for adhering to your state’s seller of travel laws.

What do I need to do to setup my business correctly?
Every town or state has different requirements for setting up a home or office based business, so check with your local chamber of commerce or government office and ask your attorney or accountant.

Can I operate my business under my own company name?
Yes. As an independent contractor, you should operate your business under your personal name or a company name.

Do I have to incorporate my business?
No, you are not required to incorporate. You may choose to incorporate at a later date as your business grows. However, this is another question for your attorney or accountant depending on your personal situation.

What is Errors and Omissions insurance and do I need it?
A form of insurance that indemnifies the insured for any loss sustained because of an error or oversight on your part. It is recommended to anyone self-employed in the travel industry and is included in your annual fee (value $300 - $400 / year).

Do I need Liability Insurance?
Some states require more insurance than others. Please contact your insurance broker to discuss your needs.

Is it possible to join MTravel.com if I DO NOT live in the United States?
No. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept persons residing outside of the US.

Private Labeled Consumer Website

How long does it take to create my website?
It takes about 3-4 business days to add your logo and ID tracking.

Can I use my own domain name for my website?
Yes, in fact, we recommend it. If you already own a domain name, we will provide you with instructions on how to forward your domain name to our servers. If you are interested in pursuing your own unique domain name, we can recommend www.GoDaddy.com or www.NetworkSolutions.com.

Can my clients book directly on my website?
Absolutely. That’s the beauty of your Private Labeled CONSUMER Website. You’re in business 24/7. Earn commissions while you sleep!

Reservations / Suppliers

How competitive are MTravel.com prices?
As a top producer with the worlds leading cruiselines and many world-class packaged vacation suppliers, Montrose Travel has access to deals, pricing and distressed inventory that make you competitive. Further, through our Galileo/Apollo relationship, we have access to all major U.S. airline webfares and our negotiated and merchant hotel and car inventory programs will always make you look good.

Cruise Pricing Case Study

Air Pricing Case Study

How do I identify myself when working with travel suppliers?
When you join MTravel.com, you will identify yourself as a Montrose Travel agent and provide them with our ARC number and/or company contact information. This is the only time when you identify yourself as working for Montrose Travel. Otherwise, as an independent contractor, you are self-employed and market yourself under your own name to your customers.

How do I receive vendor faxes and correspondence?
Your faxed confirmations and quotes are converted to emails by our software and routed to you. Of course, we must be aware that a particular booking is yours.

Marketing

Does MTravel.com offer any type of database program?
Yes, we offer Client Connex, a no cost travel database program that you may access via the Internet. In addition, we offer special rates on ClientEase and ClientBase+.

Do I have to have a database for my travel business?
It is not a requirement, but it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. If you want to be successful in marketing your home based travel business to an organized, usable prospect/client list, you need a program to house it. And, we believe this list is your most valuable business asset. Make your marketing life easier….print labels, do blast emails, etc.

Does MTravel.com offer any marketing assistance?
Absolutely. We offer:

A fabulous no cost html email tool to build professional looking promotional emails to blast to your list
A no cost promotional blast email program that basically allows you to put your email marketing on “auto pilot”
Access to an extremely comprehensive, low cost direct mail and email marketing program including NCOA mail list clean up for address changes, database demographic coding, targeted supplier mailings, and more
Access to a multitude of supplier marketing tools for both FIT’s and groups
And, don’t forget our market leading private-labeled consumer website with online booking capabilities

Does MTravel.com offer a leads program?
No. The majority of leads programs available appeal to price shoppers, which leads to discounting and rebating, not cultivating loyal customers. We will coach you in how to best market your business to develop your own clientele, rather than a one time booking because you were 50 cents cheaper than the next guy.

I recently had the opportunity to share my experiences with a friend of mine who also is interested in returning to travel. She was a MAJOR corporate agent, but took time off to raise her family.

She wants back in but with more flexibility and a sense of self. So naturally, I shared this opportunity. She may be joining the MT Family herself.

Again, thank you for all that you do, and thank you for accepting me into the family.

Chris R.
Center Stage Travel Agency