Are you searching for a reliable removals company in Portsmouth?
If you’ve previously tackled moving home yourself, you’ll know it’s rarely as straightforward as it first appears. Each year, countless people underestimate the time needed to pack belongings, disassemble furniture, and handle logistics. This is especially true in Portsmouth, where narrow streets in Southsea, busy roads near Gunwharf Quays, and strict parking regulations in Old Portsmouth can complicate matters.
While it might be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives like a van hire or ‘man with a van’ service, these often lack the experience, insurance, or resources needed for a smooth move. Instead, a reputable Portsmouth-based removals company will offer peace of mind and the professional assistance you need.
To help you make the right choice, here are our top 8 tips for choosing a removals company in Portsmouth.
1. Arrange a Free Home or Video Survey
Your first step should be arranging a free survey. A trusted Portsmouth removals company like Curtiss & Sons will happily offer a home visit or video survey, allowing you to discuss your requirements, ask questions, and receive a detailed quotation tailored to your specific needs.
During the survey, be sure to mention unusual or heavy items, any challenging access points, or parking restrictions outside your property—typical in areas like Southsea or Fratton.
Booking early is vital, especially in peak summer months. Most reputable companies get fully booked weeks in advance, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
2. Check for Accreditation
Always choose a removals company accredited by the British Association of Removers (BAR).
BAR membership guarantees your chosen company adheres to high industry standards, offering dispute resolution and providing peace of mind that your belongings are in capable hands.
Reliable firms will clearly display the BAR logo on their website, as seen on the homepage of Curtiss Moving & Storage.
3. Clarify What Services are Included
Before committing, clarify precisely which services your removals company in Portsmouth offers.
Are packing and unpacking included?
Do they provide secure storage facilities?
Can they assist with specialist items, such as pianos or antiques?
Ensuring you clearly understand what’s included helps avoid unexpected costs or stress on moving day. Always ask about extra services well ahead of your scheduled move.
4. Read Customer Reviews
Reading reviews from previous customers offers valuable insight into the removals company’s reliability, professionalism, and quality of service.
Websites such as Trustpilot and Google Reviews are great places to start.
Positive feedback from Portsmouth residents who’ve previously used the service is always reassuring.
After your move, consider leaving your own review to help others make informed decisions.
5. Obtain and Compare Multiple Quotations
It’s wise to obtain quotations from at least three removals companies in Portsmouth.
This allows you to assess costs, compare service levels, and ultimately select the company offering the best balance of value and service quality.
Price isn’t everything, so ask yourself:
- How detailed and transparent was their quotation?
- Did they appear knowledgeable about Portsmouth-specific challenges, such as parking permits or restricted roads?
- Did they provide clear timeframes and guidance?
- Can they comfortably manage heavy or valuable items?
6. Confirm Insurance Coverage
Even with the most professional removals company, mishaps can occasionally occur.
Always confirm what insurance coverage your chosen company offers.
Reputable Portsmouth removals firms typically provide a form of standard liability cover.
However, for peace of mind, you may want to arrange additional cover—especially for valuable or delicate items.
At Curtiss Moving & Storage we provide our customers with MoveProtect, a contractual liability protection designed to give you peace of mind.
MoveProtect allows you to declare a Maximum Replacement Value for your goods, determining our liability for loss or damage while your belongings are in our care.
7. Payment Options and Terms
Clarify payment options upfront. Professional removals companies will accept multiple payment methods, including debit and credit cards, bank transfers, and cheques.
Be cautious of companies demanding cash-in-hand or large deposits upfront.
Transparent payment terms help establish trust and avoid misunderstandings.
8. Professional Appearance and Uniforms
It may sound trivial, but uniformed staff are a clear indication of a professional, established removals company.
Uniformed removal crews from firms such as Curtiss & Sons reassure you that you’re dealing with a professional outfit, clearly identifying who’s handling your belongings on moving day.
9. Additional Consideration: Portsmouth’s Unique Moving Challenges
Moving within Portsmouth requires special attention to parking restrictions, narrow streets, and busy urban areas.
When selecting your removals company, choose one experienced in handling local moves across challenging neighbourhoods such as Southsea, Cosham, and North End.
Curtiss & Sons have been successfully managing Portsmouth removals since 1871 and hold a Royal Warrant for their exemplary services.
With extensive knowledge of local logistics, they are uniquely positioned to handle the particular challenges of Portsmouth relocations.
Are You Ready to Choose Your Removals Company in Portsmouth?
We hope our guide has simplified the process of selecting your removals company in Portsmouth.
Curtiss & Sons Moving & Storage has been proudly serving the Portsmouth area for over 150 years, offering expert removals, secure storage, and bespoke packing services. As holders of the Royal Warrant for over 80 years, we ensure each move is executed smoothly, efficiently, and professionally.
If you’d like more information about our Portsmouth removals services, contact us today or call 023 9298 5830. Alternatively, complete our quick enquiry form and we’ll be in touch to arrange your free quotation.
Let Curtiss & Sons make your Portsmouth move effortless.
