Questions to ask your removals company before hiring
TL;DR: Before hiring a removals company, ask about their insurance coverage, pricing structure, experience with your moving type, cancellation policies, and whether they offer packing services. Request references, confirm their availability dates, and understand what happens if they damage your belongings.
Introduction
Moving house can feel overwhelming. You’ve got a thousand things to think about, and choosing the right removals company shouldn’t add to your stress. Asking the right questions upfront saves you money, headaches, and potentially protects your precious possessions. A good removals company welcomes questions. They’re used to helping customers understand the moving process. This guide covers the essential questions to ask your removals company before you hire them. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice.
What Insurance Coverage Does Your Removals Company Offer?
This is your safety net if something goes wrong during the move. Ask specifically about full replacement coverage and what items aren’t covered, like jewellery or artwork.
Insurance isn’t optional. It’s essential protection for your belongings. Standard liability coverage often covers just a percentage of your item’s value. Full replacement coverage costs more but protects you properly.
Ask your removals company:
– Do they hold professional indemnity insurance?
– What’s included in their standard coverage?
– Can you increase coverage for valuable items?
– Are there hidden exclusions?
Get everything in writing. Don’t rely on verbal promises.
How Much Will This Move Actually Cost?
Request a written quote that breaks down all charges: labour, transport, materials, and any extra fees. Confirm whether the price is fixed or if it might increase on moving day.
Pricing varies wildly across the UK. A local move in Manchester costs differently than London to Cornwall. Most removals companies charge per hour or by volume.
Key questions:
– Is this a fixed quote or an estimate?
– What does the price include?
– Are there charges for things like stairs or long carries?
– Do you charge for waiting time?
– What’s your cancellation fee?
Always get multiple quotes. Compare what’s included, not just the total price.
Can You Handle My Specific Type of Move?
Not every removals company handles piano moves, business relocations, or international shipping equally well. Confirm they’ve got experience with your particular moving situation.
A company brilliant at local house moves might struggle with piano relocation. You need specialists for specialty items. Check their track record.
Ask them:
– How many moves like mine have you done?
– Can you handle my fragile items safely?
– Do you provide packing services?
– Can you move on my exact dates?
– What happens if you can’t complete the move in one day?
Get references from previous customers with similar moves.
What’s Your Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy?
Life happens. Ask what happens if you need to cancel or postpone, when you need to notify them, and whether you’ll lose your deposit or face penalty charges.
Plans change. Job offers fall through. Sales fall apart. You need flexibility. But removals companies have schedules too.
Important details:
– How much notice do you need?
– Will you refund my deposit?
– Can I reschedule to another date?
– What happens if you need to cancel?
– Is there a charge to reschedule?
Get this in writing before you book.
Do You Offer Packing Services, and What’s Included?
Some companies pack everything, others provide boxes only, and some charge extra for packing materials. Clarify exactly what you’re paying for and whether it’s included in your quote.
Packing services save time and stress. But they’re not always included in the basic price. Professional packers also protect your items better.
Ask about:
– Do you provide packing as standard?
– What does packing cost?
– Are boxes and materials included?
– Can you pack only certain rooms?
– Do you pack fragile items differently?
Factor packing costs into your budget from the start.
Conclusion
Asking these questions before hiring a removals company protects your move and your budget. Don’t feel rushed. A reputable company expects these questions and answers them happily. Take time choosing. Get everything in writing. Check references. Trust your gut instinct about the company’s professionalism.
Ready to find the right removals company for your move? Find a removals company near you by searching our free UK directory. We’ve listed vetted removals specialists across the country ready to help.
FAQ
Q: How far in advance should I book a removals company?
A: Book at least 4-6 weeks ahead for house moves. During summer months, book earlier. Last-minute bookings are possible but cost more and offer fewer options.
Q: Can I get a quote online without a home visit?
A: Most companies provide initial estimates online. However, an in-person survey gives you an accurate fixed quote. Virtual surveys are increasingly available too.
Q: What should I do if my belongings get damaged?
A: Report damage immediately with photographic evidence. Contact your removals company within the timeframe specified in your contract, usually 30 days. Document everything for your insurance claim.
Q: Are removals companies responsible for my items left in my old property?
A: No. They’re only responsible for items they’ve packed or transported. Items you’ve left behind are your responsibility.
Q: Can I pack my own boxes and have the company move them?
A: Yes, most companies allow this. However, they’re not responsible for items damaged inside your own packed boxes. They’ll likely charge the same regardless.