10 things to check before hiring a removals company
TL;DR: Before hiring a removals company, verify their insurance coverage, read customer reviews, confirm their pricing structure, and check they’re properly licensed. Ask about additional fees, moving dates, staff training, and whether they handle special items. Compare quotes from at least three firms and ensure they’re transparent about all costs.
Introduction
Moving house is exciting but stressful. You’ve got boxes to pack, dates to arrange, and loads to organise. The last thing you need is hiring a removals company that lets you down. A poor choice can leave your belongings damaged, your schedule ruined, or your wallet much lighter than expected.
In the UK, there are thousands of removals firms competing for your business. Some are brilliant. Others, not so much. That’s why checking a removals company thoroughly before you hire them matters so much. You want professionals who’ll treat your possessions like they’re their own. Let me walk you through the ten essential things you should verify before making your choice.
Is the company properly insured?
Insurance is your safety net if something goes wrong. Never hire a removals company without checking they’ve got comprehensive coverage. Ask for their certificate and read the small print.
Most reputable firms carry “all-risks” insurance. This covers accidental damage during the move. Some cheaper companies offer only basic liability, which barely covers anything. Standard UK removal insurance typically costs between £50 and £200 depending on your belongings’ value. If they can’t show you proof, walk away. You don’t want uninsured workers handling your sofa.
What do customer reviews actually say?
Online reviews tell you the truth about any removals company. Check Google, Trustpilot, and the company’s own website. But don’t just look at star ratings. Read the actual comments.
Look for patterns in feedback. One complaint about a broken lamp? That happens. Multiple complaints about late arrivals or hidden charges? That’s a red flag. Pay special attention to recent reviews. A company might’ve been amazing five years ago but gone downhill since. Aim for firms with consistently positive feedback across multiple platforms.
Have you compared at least three different quotes?
Getting just one quote is a false economy. You need to compare prices across at least three firms. But don’t choose based purely on cost. The cheapest option often means cutting corners.
Request detailed written quotes from each company. They should itemise everything: labour costs, vehicle hire, packing materials, insurance, and any additional fees. This lets you compare apples with apples. Most reputable firms offer free quotes within 48 hours. If someone’s vague about pricing, that’s suspicious.
Are there hidden fees you should know about?
Hidden costs turn affordable moves into expensive disasters. Before booking, ask directly about extra charges. These might include:
- Stairlifts or difficult access fees
- Parking permits for your area
- Travel time beyond your local radius
- Packing material charges
- Charges for moving fragile items
- Fuel surcharges
Get everything in writing. A good company will explain all possible extras upfront. If they’re evasive about additional costs, keep looking. You should never get a surprise bill on moving day.
Do they handle your special items properly?
Not everything fits in a standard cardboard box. If you’ve got pianos, artwork, antiques, or electronics, you need specialists. Ask whether they’ve got experience with your specific items.
Some removals companies charge more for special handling. That’s normal. What matters is they’ve got trained staff and proper equipment. Ask for references from previous clients with similar items. Reputable firms won’t mind providing these details.
Conclusion
Hiring the right removals company transforms your moving experience. You’ve now got a solid checklist to work through. Verify insurance, read reviews, compare quotes, ask about hidden fees, and confirm they handle your belongings properly.
Don’t rush the decision. Spend an afternoon checking different firms. It’ll save you stress and money. Ready to find a trustworthy removals company? Search our free UK directory to discover vetted professionals in your area.
FAQ
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a house removal in the UK?
A: A typical local move costs between £800 and £2,500. Long-distance moves range from £1,500 to £5,000+. Prices depend on distance, volume, and complexity. Always get multiple quotes to understand your local market.
Q: What should I ask during an initial consultation?
A: Ask about their experience, insurance details, availability on your moving date, packing services, and whether they guarantee timings. Request a detailed written quote that itemises all costs clearly.
Q: Can removals companies refuse certain items?
A: Yes, they can refuse hazardous materials like paint, petrol, or batteries for safety reasons. Some won’t move valuable antiques without extra insurance. Always declare what you’re moving upfront.
Q: Should I get professional packers or pack myself?
A: Professional packing costs more but reduces damage risk. They’ve got proper materials and expertise. If you’re time-poor or own valuable items, it’s worth considering their packing services.
Q: What happens if something breaks during the move?
A: Your insurance should cover accidental damage. Report it immediately with photos and documentation. Keep the damaged item until you’ve submitted your claim. The company typically arranges repairs or replacement.