7 questions to ask a removals company for a quote
7 Questions to Ask a Removals Company for a Quote
TL;DR: Before hiring a removals company, ask about their insurance, hidden costs, crew experience, timescales, storage options, payment terms, and whether they offer free surveys. These questions help you compare quotes fairly and avoid nasty surprises on moving day.
Introduction
Getting a house move quote sounds straightforward. You ring up a removals company, tell them what you’ve got, and they give you a price. But here’s the thing: not all quotes are created equal. Some companies hide charges in the small print. Others don’t include what you’d expect. That’s why asking the right questions about removals company quotes matters so much. Whether you’re moving across Manchester or from London to Cornwall, a proper conversation upfront saves stress later. This guide covers the seven questions you absolutely should ask when getting a removals quote.
1. What Insurance Do You Provide as Standard?
You need to know what’s protected if something breaks during your move.
Every removals company should offer basic insurance. But the coverage levels vary wildly. Some provide limited liability only. This means they’ll only pay a small amount per item, even if it’s worth thousands. Ask specifically what their standard cover includes. Will they protect your furniture against damage, loss, or theft? Do you need extra cover for valuable items like artwork or pianos? Get the answer in writing. You might pay £50 to £150 for additional cover, but it’s worth it for peace of mind. Know exactly what you’re getting before moving day arrives.
2. Are There Any Hidden Costs I Should Know About?
The best removals companies are transparent about all charges upfront.
This is crucial. Ask if the quote includes everything or if extras cost extra. Some firms charge for things like boxes, bubble wrap, or packing materials. Others add fees for awkward access, narrow streets, or flights of stairs. Insurance might not be included either. Ask about fuel surcharges too. These can fluctuate. Will the price change if petrol costs spike? Get a written quote with every cost itemised. There should be no surprises when the invoice arrives.
3. What’s the Experience Level of Your Moving Crew?
You want experienced people handling your possessions, not trainees learning the job.
Don’t just assume all removal workers are equally trained. Ask how long the crew members have worked for the company. Are they trained in handling delicate items? Do they specialise in certain types of moves, like office relocations or piano moves? A company that invests in staff training usually delivers better results. Experienced crews work faster and cause less damage. They know how to navigate tight spaces and protect your belongings properly. This often means paying slightly more, but you’re paying for quality.
4. How Long Will the Move Take and Can You Confirm Dates?
You need certainty about when your move happens to coordinate other arrangements.
Ask for a realistic timescale. A local move might take one day. A long-distance move could take two or three. Get them to confirm the specific dates you need. Will they arrive at a set time or give a time window? What happens if they run late? Can you access your old house and new house simultaneously? Discuss these details before booking. Some companies guarantee dates with refunds if they’re late. Others offer flexible windows. Know what you’re getting.
5. Do You Offer Storage Options If I Need Them?
Sometimes moving dates don’t align perfectly, and you’ll need a place to store your stuff.
Your new house might not be ready when you move out. Or you’re moving before furniture arrives. Ask if the removals company offers storage. Is it secure? How much does it cost per week or month? Are there minimum stay periods? Check the temperature control. Damp storage can damage your belongings. Climate-controlled storage costs more but protects wooden furniture and electronics better. Get storage rates in the quote too. This prevents nasty surprises later.
6. What’s Your Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy?
You should understand when you need to pay and what happens if plans change.
Most companies want a deposit to secure your booking date. This is normal. Ask how much they want and when the balance is due. Do they accept cheques, bank transfers, or card payments? What’s their cancellation policy? If you cancel, do you lose your deposit? Can you postpone instead? Get these terms in writing. Reputable firms are usually flexible within reason. They understand that circumstances change.
Conclusion
Asking the right questions transforms the quote process from confusing to straightforward. You’ll understand exactly what you’re paying for and what to expect on moving day. Compare multiple quotes using these questions as your checklist. The cheapest option isn’t always the best one. Often, paying a bit more for transparency and experience saves money and stress overall. Find a removals company near you by searching our free UK directory today. Get three competitive quotes and move with confidence.
FAQ
What should I do if quotes vary wildly between companies?
Check what each quote includes. One might add insurance, packing, and storage to the price. Another might exclude these. Compare like with like. Then assess whether you’re paying for better service or just different coverage.
Can I negotiate on removals quotes?
Sometimes, yes. If you’re flexible on dates or can help with packing, companies might offer discounts. It’s always worth asking, especially for large moves. Don’t expect huge reductions though.
How far in advance should I get quotes?
Six to eight weeks before your move is ideal. This gives you time to compare options and book your preferred company. During summer months, book even earlier.
Do I need a survey before getting an accurate quote?
Yes, ideally. Many companies offer free home surveys. The surveyor sees everything and gives you an accurate quote. Phone quotes can underestimate the volume.
What if I’m unhappy with a quote after booking?
Get everything in writing first. Check the terms and conditions carefully. Most companies honour their quotes if circumstances don’t change. If you’ve got concerns, raise them immediately with the company.