What Questions Should You Ask a Removal Company?

Published on , in FAQ's, Van Size, Moving Home.


If you are planning to move house, you know how challenging it can be to settle for that one removal company that meets your needs. A simple Google search on "house removal companies near me" will bombard you with hundreds of results. And when you've combed the reviews and gone through a dozen removal companies' websites, there are high chances you'll be even more confused than when you started your research.

Hence, to help you narrow down your search, here are key questions you should ask the removal services which make it to the final list of your search.

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When Will You Conduct a House Removal Survey?

A house removal survey is usually free and conducted before the actual move. The first thing you want to do is ask the removal company when they will be available for the house removal survey. The survey allows the moving services company to determine the volume of your items.

Your role here is to ensure when they come for the survey; all your belongings are visible. Apart from things in the main rooms, also look into the items in the attic and garage. You'll only get an accurate quote if the moving company takes inventory of all your belongings. Otherwise, you risk confusion or, worse, a higher quotation to reflect the additional items.

Additionally, take advantage of this time to inquire about any specific requirements you may have. Get information about their availability on your moving day and how long your move will take on the actual moving day.

What Does the Quote Include?

Of course, the quote includes the cost of moving your items. However, it's best to get a breakdown of the quote. What exactly does it entail? Additionally, inquire about any other charges that may pile up on the moving day.

There could be extra charges for heavy items. Suppose you've also booked packing services. You want to know whether the cost includes packing materials, dismantling furniture, or unpacking in your new home. You don't want surprises. So, make sure you understand each cost in your quote.

When Should I Pay?

Once you have a quote, it's important to ask when you are expected to pay and the payment methods the moving company accepts. Some removal companies accept cash. Others allow bank transfers, card payments or even cheques.

Additionally, house moving companies have different policies when it comes to when to pay. Some require clients to pay the full amount in advance, others need a deposit, while some expect payment once they've completed the moving house service.

Usually, the standard waiting period after booking is a minimum of seven days before the move. Of course, there are house removal companies that will help you move sooner, but this is the standard for removal companies accredited by British Association Removers.

What Size of Vehicles Do You Have?

Van sizes

It's particularly important to know the kind of vehicles a removal company has. This is for several reasons. You don't want to wait for hours on end as their mini-vans are loaded, transport your item to the destination, then come back to load again. A big van or lorry that packs all your items in one go is what you should be looking for, especially if you have many household items.

But then again, a small van may be ideal if the alley to your old or new house is narrow. In which case, you'll have to inquire about the number of trips they'll make and if they have several vans that will make the move more efficient and save time.

Secondly, you don't want to reach your new home only to find out that your delicate possessions or furniture are damaged because they were crammed together. Knowing the type of vans or lorries the house removal company uses will give you peace of mind. At least, you'll be assured that your items will be safe.

If you are moving to or from York to any part of the UK, moving van size should be the least of your worries. Why is that? 1 Van 1 Man Removals have spacious, well-equipped vans that can handle even the largest house removal job. We've got you! The only thing you need to do is get in touch with us today.

Do You Have Insurance?

Most removal companies have insurance cover, but often the cover doesn't extend to valuable items. So, it will be great to know in advance what is covered and what isn't so that you can look into supplementing the existing cover.

Feel free to ask for a copy of the insurance cover to be sure. Most moving companies will allow you to see it without a fuss. In the same breath, ask about the licensing. Not everyone with a moving van operates a legitimate removal company. So, to avoid rogue movers or scammers, make sure you confirm that the moving company is licensed by BAR.

What's Your Cancellation Policy?

Don't shy away from asking about the cancelation policy, although it's often included in the terms and conditions. Some moving companies charge an hourly rate when there are delays. In case you cancel or postpone your move, some removal companies will charge you a percentage of the total estimated moving cost.

Thus, knowing what the policy stipulates in advance will help you make an informed choice. Suppose there are delays with selling your house or purchasing a new one, and you have to cancel, postpone, or delay your move within a few hours.

Are Your Staff Regularly Trained?

Professional staff

Since it's your personal belongings we are talking about here, it's crucial that you ask whether the staff is regularly trained. It goes without saying that trained staff will better take care of your belongings. And it's not just about being trained. Go further to ask how often they are trained. This will help you gauge whether they are up-to-date with moving techniques and knowledge in the industry.

It's equally important to find out whether the movers are permanently employed with the removal company, or they are contractors. Time has proven that more often than not, contractors are more concerned with getting the job done than with the quality of the work.

Another crucial aspect to ask about the staff is whether they are uniformed. Since you've never met this team before, uniforms will make it easy to identify the people working for the removal firm when you'll be moving.

Do You Need Help Moving House?

Look no further. 1 Van 1 Man Removals is your go-to removal company. We have well-trained removal professionals that are experienced in their craft. We'll go above and beyond to ensure your belongings reach your destination safely. Get a free quote today, and let's get started with your moving arrangements.

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