10 Questions to Ask Your House Removalists Before Moving Day

Moving can be one of the most stressful events in life, but it doesn’t have to be. Choosing the right removalist can make the whole process easier and more efficient. However, before you hire a moving company, it’s important to ask the right questions. This helps ensure that there are no surprises on moving day and that you’re fully prepared for the big move.

In this guide, we’ll go over 10 essential questions to ask your house removalists before moving day. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to ask so you can feel confident and ready for your move.

1. Are You a Licensed and Insured Removal Company?

The first and most important question to ask is whether the company is licensed and insured. This ensures that you’re dealing with a legitimate business that follows industry regulations. Insurance is particularly important because it protects your belongings in case of damage during the move.

Why It’s Important:

If a company is not licensed or insured, you could be putting your items at risk. In case something goes wrong—such as damage or loss—you might not be able to get compensation.

What to Listen For:

• Does the company have proper insurance to cover any damage?
• Can they provide proof of licensing?
• Are they members of professional organizations like the British Association of Removers (BAR)?

2. What Services Are Included in Your Quote?

Always ask what’s included in the quoted price. Some companies offer just basic services like loading and unloading, while others provide additional services like packing, unpacking, or disassembling furniture.

Why It’s Important:

Knowing exactly what you’re paying for will help you avoid any unexpected charges. Some removalists may charge extra for packing supplies, moving heavy items, or even for stairs and narrow spaces.

What to Ask:

• Does the price include packing materials?
• Are there any hidden costs, such as fuel surcharges or fees for long distances?
• Will they disassemble and reassemble large furniture pieces?

3. Do You Offer Packing Services?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of packing up your whole home, ask if the removal company offers packing services. Some companies will pack everything for you, from your kitchen dishes to your wardrobe. Others may only offer partial packing services.

Why It’s Important:

Packing services can save you a lot of time and stress, especially if you’re busy with work or family responsibilities. Professional packers know how to pack items securely to avoid breakage.

Follow-Up Questions:

• How much extra does packing cost?
• Will they provide the packing materials, or do you need to supply your own?
• Can they pack fragile items like glassware, mirrors, or electronics?

4. Do You Have Experience with Moves Like Mine?

Not all moves are the same. For example, moving from a small apartment is different from moving to a large family home or a commercial space. It’s essential to know if the removal company has experience handling moves similar to yours.

Why It’s Important:

You want to be sure the removalists know how to handle your specific needs. For example, if you have large furniture or delicate antiques, they should know how to move them without causing damage.

What to Ask:

• Have they handled large homes, long-distance moves, or high-rise apartment relocations?
• How do they handle bulky or heavy items like pianos, safes, or pool tables?
• What’s their strategy for moving fragile items like artwork or expensive electronics?

5. What Measures Do You Take to Protect My Belongings?

One of the biggest concerns when moving is the safety of your belongings. It’s essential to know how the removalists will protect your items during the move. Ask about the materials they use and their general process for securing your furniture, boxes, and valuables.

Why It’s Important:

You don’t want your furniture scratched or your boxes crushed during the move. Knowing how your movers will protect your items gives you peace of mind.

What to Ask:

• Do they use protective materials like blankets, bubble wrap, or furniture pads?
• How do they handle fragile items like mirrors or glass tables?
• What’s their process for loading and unloading the truck to avoid damage?

6. Do You Have Reviews or Testimonials?

A reputable removal company should be able to provide customer reviews or testimonials. This gives you an idea of what previous customers thought of their services. You can also check online review platforms or social media for honest opinions from past clients.

Why It’s Important:

Reviews offer a clear picture of the company’s professionalism, punctuality, and customer service. If a company has lots of negative reviews, it’s a red flag.

What to Ask:

• Can they provide references from previous customers?
• Where can you find their reviews (Google, Yelp, Trustpilot)?
• How do they handle complaints or negative feedback?

7. How Will You Handle Delays or Problems on Moving Day?

Moving can sometimes be unpredictable. Delays, bad weather, or traffic can affect the timing of your move. It’s a good idea to ask how the company deals with unexpected problems, so you know what to expect.

Why It’s Important:

A good removalist should have a plan in place for handling delays or issues that may arise on moving day. This way, you won’t be left waiting or stressed.

What to Ask:

• What happens if there’s a delay or the truck arrives late?
• How do they handle poor weather conditions, like rain or snow?
• Will they communicate with you if they’re running late or need to make changes to the schedule?

8. What Is Your Cancellation Policy?

Sometimes, plans change. You might need to reschedule your move or cancel altogether. Before signing any contracts, make sure you understand the company’s cancellation policy.

Why It’s Important:

Knowing the cancellation policy can help you avoid unexpected fees if you need to make last-minute changes to your move date.

What to Ask:

• How far in advance do you need to cancel without paying a fee?
• Is there a cancellation fee, and how much is it?
• Can you reschedule the move without extra charges?

9. Can You Provide an In-Home Survey for an Accurate Quote?

Many removal companies offer quotes based on the size of your home or the number of rooms you have. However, for a more accurate quote, it’s best to ask for an in-home survey. This allows the movers to see exactly what you’ll be moving and give you a precise estimate.

Why It’s Important:

An in-home survey gives you a clearer idea of the total cost and avoids surprises later. It also helps the movers plan for any specific challenges, like narrow staircases or heavy furniture.

What to Ask:

• Is there a charge for the in-home survey?
• How long will it take for them to inspect your home and provide a quote?
• Will the price they quote change, or is it guaranteed?

10. What Payment Methods Do You Accept, and When Do I Pay?

Understanding the company’s payment process is essential. Some removalists require payment upfront, while others may ask for a deposit and the rest on the day of the move. It’s also important to know what payment methods they accept, whether it’s cash, credit card, or bank transfer.

Why It’s Important:

Knowing when and how to pay avoids any confusion or stress on moving day. You’ll also want to avoid any last-minute surprises when it comes to payment.

What to Ask:

• Do they require a deposit?
• When is the final payment due?
• What forms of payment do they accept (cash, credit card, online transfers)?

Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Removalists

Now that you know what questions to ask, here are a few extra tips to make sure you choose the best moving company for your needs:

• Start Early: Contact removalists as soon as you know your moving date. This gives you enough time to compare quotes and services.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first company you find. Get at least three quotes so you can compare prices and services.
• Read the Fine Print: Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the contract. This includes cancellation policies, fees, and what happens in case of damage.
• Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, or if the company is not transparent, it’s okay to walk away. You want to feel comfortable with your choice.

Conclusion

Asking the right questions before moving day is crucial to ensure that you choose the best house removalists for the job. By covering important topics like insurance, services included, handling delays, and getting a clear quote, you’ll avoid surprises and feel more confident in your moving process.

With a bit of preparation and clear communication, your move can go smoothly and stress-free. Remember, a good removal company should always be transparent, professional, and happy to answer all your questions.