Removal Services Guide

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Guide to Removal Services

Removal company costs and the pressures associated with moving house are not to be taken lightly, but being armed with all the information necessary to move house makes moving house more of a pleasure than a chore. After all, you’ve got a new home to look forward to!

The first step is moving your possessions from your current house to your new address. It’s amazing how much we can all accumulate, so be ruthless in deciding what to take and what to leave behind.

If you are getting rid of possessions, bear in mind that something you don’t need could be useful to someone else, including many charities.

Establishing contact with a removal company at an early stages allows the house mover to be well prepared for the physical act of moving.

Researching the suitable companies in your area, and getting and comparing a quote from each should be a matter of course. Many movers have specific questions and requirements for their removal company, so don’t be afraid to ask. Similarly, don’t cut corners – your possessions will be in their hands!

For this reason, price may not be the primary factor in deciding who to move with. Be very clear and honest with your removal company as to what you want from them. Let them know the specifics so they can bring along everything that they need in order to do the job properly.

Preparation saves time, money and stress

When getting a quote from removal companies, be aware that many will wish to visit your home to ascertain the cost and the size of van or lorry needed to move. If each removal company is asked the same questions and have the same idea of the task, it will be easier to compare the quotes accurately. You also need to work out the logistics of the move, and how much of a physical part you and your family are going to play.

Sorting your possessions into piles and packing them into boxes will make the process easier and quicker, and cheaper, for the removal company. Make sure that you clearly label all valuables and pack them well.

Being aware in advance of whose responsibility each aspect of the move is, such as who has to dismantle beds pr wardrobes, should be agreed in advance. When it gets to the other end, make sure heavy or dismantled items are placed in the rooms where they will be erected, or you may end up with heavy lifting. Also remember that most flatpack furniture is not designed to be dismantled and reassembled. If you have any problems, make sure that you address them in advance with the removal company.

Choosing a removal company

Each company is different and the company choice is yours. Set aside the prices quoted for a while and consider what you need from a removal company and which one best suits your criteria. You may prefer a small family firm that prides itself on its good reputation or a large well known chain that can handle whatever you require of them.

Get recommendations from friends and family, as you may well be surprised at how many of those you know have moved home. It is worthwhile to get recommendations as they are invaluable. This is in many cases the best way of selecting a company.

When you have a date, notify your top choice removal company. Should they be booked up then you will have other quotes to pursue. Certain companies may be booked fully on your given date for moving. It is best to avoid Friday for moving.

That day stands to be the most popular day for moving especially towards the end of the month. Due to Friday being the most popular day for moving, removal companies unfortunately often inflate prices to balance quieter week days.

If you book a specific day and then cancel you need to check the small print relating to "terms and conditions". You may well have to pay a cancellation fee which can be up to 60% of the removal cost.

Leading up to the move

In the run up to the move, make sure that everything is packed and ready to go. Although this sounds obvious, it is incredible how much stuff can easily be left behind. For instance, remember the contents of the garage and garden, and dispose of items that would otherwise be left behind.

Supervising the removal is a good idea, although respect must be given to let the removal company do their job. Make sure that the removal company fulfils all of the criteria on the inventory list, and does their job professionally. If they do not, don’t be afraid to make a noise about it.

Common questions to ask the removal company

• Does the removal company offer insurance?
• If so, what does it cover and what does it not cover?
• Ask about the history of the company
• Is the company a member of a relevant trade association or part of a removal chain?

If you need to buy any more insurance first check your own household insurance policy. You may find that you are already covered. Household polices usually cover scratches and dents, any damage caused by strikes, weather conditions and even delay. It does not cover anything that is not packed and unpacked by the known professional removal company.

Verify logistics of the move. When is the removal van going to arrive? How long will it take to load up and how long will it take to complete the job.

Try and get some references if possible. Ask if you are able to contact previous clients?

Common questions the removal company may ask you

• Where is it that you are moving to?
• What will the access be like (in terms of parking as well as getting furniture in?)
• Is there a set date for the move?
• Will the new owners move in on the day that you move out?
• Should that be the case, what time do the new owners need access to the property?
• What time do you expect to have access to the new home?