Give yourself plenty of time to shop around
It’s no good contacting firms the weekend before you are due to move. Removal firms can be booked up weeks in advance, so as soon as you know when you’re moving, start contacting companies, even if this is months in advance. Contact a few (ideally at least three) to get a quote – don’t just enlist the help of the first company that you find. Don’t forget, you can also search for a removal company on Friday-Ad.co.uk. Arrange a house visit to ensure a more accurate quote. Be aware that if you are moving on the weekend, this is likely to be a higher price than a midweek move. The price will also vary depending on how far you are moving – if you are moving to a house two streets away it is going to be cheaper than if you are moving to a town two hours away.

Get recommendations from people you know
Talk to friends, relatives, work colleagues and neighbours to find out which company they used and how they found their move. Ask them about their experiences and find out what they liked or did not like.

Check a removal firm’s reputation
Find out if a company is a member of The British Association of Removers or The National Guild of Removers and Storers. These organisations expect high standards and set a code of conduct for their members. You can also ask the removal firm to provide you with references from previous customers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, as a good company should want your custom and have your best interests at heart. Remember that the cheapest option is not always the best! Trust your instincts, as you’ll be relying on a company to move all of your possessions.

Double check what service you are getting for the price you are paying
Some removal companies will offer a packing service to help you take care of everything, while others will expect you to have everything packed so that they can simply load up a vehicle and go. Make sure you know how much help you are getting so there are no nasty surprises on the day of the move.

Check your belongings will be covered by the firm’s insurance
Accidents do happen, so make sure that if any of your items are damaged in transit, you’ll be covered. Check that all of your appliances work once they have been moved, and look over items as you unpack them. Most companies give you a set time period in which to make a claim for any damages.

Get everything in writing
Request a copy of the company’s terms and conditions, as well as a signed contract with confirmation of times, dates, and the price you are being charged. Ask for an in-depth invoice, as this will show you exactly where your money is going. It will also make it simpler for you to spot any charges for something you did not agree to.

Ask the company what you can do to help them
Find out if there is anything you need to do before the day of the move to make things run more smoothly. For example, does the company need floor plans of your new home? It’s also worth having a good declutter before moving day. After all, there is no point in paying to transport things you will eventually want to chuck away. Finally, it’s a nice gesture to offer the occasional cup of tea or coffee to the staff helping you move – after lifting heavy items and driving for a long time they are sure to appreciate the thought.

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