What happens at your first removals company appointment?
What Happens at Your First Removals Company Appointment
TL;DR
Your first removals appointment is when a surveyor visits your home to assess what you’re moving, measure items, check access, and provide an accurate quote. They’ll ask about your moving date, destination, and special items. This free survey typically lasts 30-60 minutes and helps the company plan your move properly.
Introduction
Planning a house move can feel overwhelming. You’ll need to find a reliable removals company, but what actually happens when they visit? Your first appointment with a removals surveyor is crucial. It’s when they assess your belongings, evaluate your property, and give you a realistic quote. Understanding what to expect helps you prepare better and get accurate pricing. Most removal companies in the UK offer free surveys at your convenience. This visit isn’t just about giving you a number. The surveyor gathers important information that determines how many staff, vehicles, and time your move will need. Let’s walk through what happens step by step.
What Will the Surveyor Actually Do During the Visit?
Your surveyor will walk through your home and measure your belongings. They’ll check furniture dimensions, count boxes, and assess special items like pianos or artwork. They’ll also examine your property’s access points and note any potential challenges. This thorough assessment takes 30-60 minutes usually.
The surveyor needs to understand the full scope of your move. They’ll visit every room where you’re moving items from. They’ll measure doorways, staircases, and hallways to ensure large furniture fits through. They’ll check for tight corners or low ceilings that might cause problems. They’ll also assess external access, including whether lorries can park nearby and if there are any building restrictions. They’ll take photos of awkward items or spaces. All this information helps them plan your moving day properly.
How Should You Prepare Your Home for the Appointment?
Tidy your rooms so the surveyor can access everything easily. Have a list of items you’re definitely taking and definitely leaving. Show them any fragile or valuable items that need special care.
Clear pathways through your home before they arrive. Move boxes, toys, and clutter out of the way. The surveyor needs to see your actual furniture and belongings. If you’ve already started packing, let them know what’s in boxes. Have measurements ready if you’ve already taken them. Make a note of any tricky items like fitted wardrobes, hot tubs, or garden structures you’re moving. Tell them about any pets that might affect access. Prepare tea or coffee if you’d like, but it’s not necessary. Just being organised saves time and helps them give you an accurate quote.
What Questions Will They Ask You?
The surveyor will ask your moving date, destination address, and access details. They’ll enquire about special requirements like weekend moves, piano moving, or storage needs. They may also ask about your timeline and budget expectations.
They’ll want to know whether you’re taking everything or just specific items. They’ll ask about your destination property’s access too. Can a lorry park outside? Are there stairs to climb? Are there any restrictions in a flat or building? They’ll discuss whether you need packing services or if you’re doing it yourself. They’ll ask about your preferred moving date and whether you’re flexible. Some companies also ask about your budget to manage expectations. Don’t be shy about mentioning anything unusual. The more they know, the better they can plan.
When Will You Get Your Quote and What Does It Include?
Most removals companies provide quotes within a few days. Your quote should detail the number of staff, vehicle size, estimated hours, and the total cost. It’ll outline what’s included, like boxes, packing materials, or insurance options.
A good quote breaks down the costs clearly. It shows the base moving cost, any additional services, and insurance pricing. Check whether your quote includes travel time and how they calculate charges. Some companies charge by the hour, others charge by volume. Ask what happens if the move takes longer than estimated. Confirm whether the quote’s valid and for how long. Most quotes remain valid for several weeks. Compare quotes from at least two or three companies. Don’t automatically choose the cheapest option. Consider their reputation, reviews, and the services included instead.
Conclusion
Your first removals appointment is straightforward once you know what to expect. The surveyor assesses your belongings, checks your property, and gathers information for an accurate quote. Preparing your home and having details ready makes the visit quick and efficient. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of costs and what moving day will look like. Ready to book your survey? Find a removals company near you by searching our free UK directory today. Get quotes from trusted professionals in your area.
FAQ
How much does a removals survey cost?
Most removals companies offer free home surveys. They want to assess your move properly before quoting. Some companies may charge a small fee, but this is uncommon in the UK.
Can I arrange a survey without being home?
Some companies will do surveys without the owner present, but it’s not ideal. They won’t know about special items or access details. It’s best to be there so you can answer questions and discuss requirements.
What if I’m not happy with the quote?
You’re not obligated to use that company. Get quotes from multiple removals firms and compare them. Different companies may price differently based on their assessment.
How long is the survey appointment?
Most surveys take 30-60 minutes depending on home size and complexity. A small flat might take 20 minutes. A large house with many items could take 90 minutes.
Do I need to tell them about items I haven’t shown them yet?
Yes, definitely mention everything you’re moving. Include items in lofts, garages, and sheds. Tell them about garden items, bikes, or anything stored elsewhere.