Questions to ask your removals company before hiring (Manchester)
Questions to Ask Your Removals Company Before Hiring in Manchester
TL;DR: Before hiring a Manchester removals company, ask about insurance coverage, pricing structure, experience with your home type, and what’s included in the service. Verify they’re fully licensed, check online reviews, and confirm their availability on your moving date. Getting answers upfront prevents costly surprises.
Introduction
Moving house is stressful enough without hiring the wrong removals company. Manchester’s busy moving market means plenty of options, but not all are created equal. A good removals company will make your moving day smooth and worry-free. A bad one could damage your belongings, miss deadlines, or charge hidden fees. Asking the right questions before you sign anything is crucial. It takes just 20 minutes to phone around and ask key questions. This simple step could save you hundreds of pounds and tons of stress. We’ve compiled the essential questions every Manchester household should ask their removals company.
What Insurance Coverage Do They Provide?
Do they offer full insurance protection for your belongings during the move?
Most reputable removals companies provide basic liability coverage. However, this often covers just a few pounds per item. Your valuable possessions need better protection. Ask what their standard cover includes and whether you can upgrade. Some companies offer all-risks insurance for an additional fee. Get the details in writing and ask about exclusions.
Many people assume their home insurance covers removals. It doesn’t. Your belongings are unprotected during transport unless the removals company insures them. Request a copy of their insurance certificate. Check they’re covered by the British Association of Removers (BAR) if possible. This membership shows they meet professional standards.
How Much Will the Move Actually Cost?
Can they provide a detailed written quote breaking down all charges?
Never accept a phone quote alone. A reputable company will visit your home to assess the job properly. They’ll count boxes, measure furniture, and estimate how many staff you’ll need. This takes 20-30 minutes but ensures accurate pricing.
Ask if the quote includes packing materials, packing labour, transport, and unloading. Some companies charge extra for stairs, long carries, or awkward access. Confirm whether VAT is included. Request the quote in writing so you can compare fairly with other firms. Ask about their payment terms and what happens if you cancel. Understanding the full cost prevents bill shock on moving day.
Have You Moved Homes Like Mine Before?
What experience do they have moving properties similar to yours?
A flat removal in Manchester city centre differs from moving a detached house in Stockport. Ask how many moves they’ve completed in your area. Find out if they’ve handled similar properties. If you’ve got tricky access (narrow stairs, difficult parking), mention it now. They should reassure you, not hesitate.
Ask whether they bring equipment like furniture sliders and moving straps. Check if they’ve experience moving valuable items like pianos or antiques. Read reviews from previous customers in Manchester specifically. Local reviews matter most because they reflect service in your area.
What’s Actually Included in Your Service?
What tasks are covered, and what costs extra?
Some companies include packing. Others charge per box. Some offer free quotes. Others charge £50-100 for the assessment. Ask specifically about transit insurance, tape and boxes, furniture wrapping, and unloading. Confirm whether they’ll take old boxes and packaging away. Find out if they’ll disassemble and reassemble furniture.
Ask how many staff will arrive and for how long. A two-bedroom flat might take four hours with two people. A larger house could take eight hours with three staff. Understand these details before moving day arrives.
Are They Licensed and Properly Insured?
Request their business registration and insurance certificates. Verify they’re members of professional bodies like BAR or the National Operatives Association. Check Google reviews and Trustpilot feedback from recent customers. Ask for references from previous moves they’ve completed. A legitimate company will provide these willingly.
Conclusion
Taking time to ask these questions before hiring a removals company saves money and stress. You’ll understand exactly what you’re paying for and what to expect. Don’t hire based on price alone. Cheap doesn’t mean good value. A professional team costs more but protects your belongings and your moving day. Get everything in writing and compare at least three quotes. Find a removals company near you by searching our free UK directory today.
FAQ
Q: Should I pack everything myself?
A: You can, but removals companies often pack cheaper and faster. They know how to protect items properly. Compare pricing between DIY and professional packing.
Q: What if my moving date changes?
A: Ask their cancellation policy before booking. Most require 14 days’ notice for free date changes. Late cancellations often incur fees.
Q: Do I need to be home during the move?
A: Yes, you should be present to answer questions and check items off. You’ll also need to sign the inventory paperwork.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: Book 4-6 weeks ahead for Manchester moves. During summer months, book 8 weeks early. Last-minute bookings limit your options.
Q: What should I do if items arrive damaged?
A: Document damage with photos immediately. Report it to the company within 7 days. Keep all packaging materials as evidence for insurance claims.