Are you planning a house move and unsure which questions to ask your removals company before hiring them?

Relocating can be exciting and overwhelming, and with so many tasks to juggle – packing, logistics, timeframes – it’s crucial to find a trustworthy mover.

Below, we outline ten must-ask questions to help you pick the right firm for your needs.

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Why These Questions Matter

Every home move is unique, and removal firms vary in service level, pricing, and experience.

By asking the right questions early, you can:

Avoid Hidden Costs: Gain clarity about potential extra fees or surcharges.
Assess Reliability: A reputable company should be transparent about insurance, staff training, and resources.
Alleviate Stress: Confidence in your mover lets you focus on the rest of the moving process without undue worry.

1. How Long Have You Been Operating?

Experience often separates a smooth relocation from a chaotic one.

Enquire about how long they’ve been in business:

Established Movers: Years of service indicate refined practices, stable pricing, and well-trained crews.
Check Reviews: Newer firms can still excel, so consult independent reviews and testimonials to confirm quality.

A proven track record usually means stable pricing and a more efficient service.

2. Are You a Member of the British Association of Removers (BAR)?

BAR-accredited movers adhere to industry-recognised standards, undergoing regular inspections and promising consistent service:

Payment Protection: BAR members protect your deposit if something happens before or during your move.
Professionalism: Strict codes of practice minimise risks and enhance reliability.

Choosing a BAR member helps ensure your belongings are handled carefully, giving you invaluable peace of mind.

3. How Many Vehicles Are in Your Fleet?

A bigger fleet can mean greater flexibility, enabling the firm to:

Handle Large or Complex Moves: More vans or lorries can accommodate multiple jobs or big moves with ease.
Offer Backup Options: If a truck breaks down, another vehicle can step in with minimal disruption.
Schedule Flexibly: You’re more likely to secure a move date that suits your timetable.

Smaller companies can still be excellent, but confirm they have enough resources for your move’s size and demands.

4. When Is the House Survey Scheduled?

A pre-move survey helps the removals team plan your transfer:

Accurate Quotation: By seeing bulky furniture or awkward stairways, they can price the job more realistically.
Efficiency: Early surveys let you tackle packing or last-minute tasks, avoiding panic closer to moving day.
Bespoke Strategy: Surveyors will assess any special packing requirements, such as a piano or fragile valuables.

5. Do You Offer Video Surveys?

Video surveys are becoming the norm, especially for busy schedules:

Convenience: Display your home via Zoom or a dedicated app, saving time and unnecessary travel.
Remote Planning: Great for those juggling work or who haven’t yet moved into the property.
Detailed Insights: Surveyors can highlight awkward corners and talk you through special packing needs.

6. Is Storage Available?

Sometimes schedules change and you need a holding area for your belongings:

Short-Term Storage: Ideal if your new home isn’t immediately ready.
Long-Term Solutions: Handy if you’re downsizing or planning extended travel.
Single Provider: It’s simpler if your mover handles both transport and storage, bundling costs into one package.

Confirm whether they offer safe, insured storage that fits your budget and timeline.

7. What Does Their Insurance Cover?

Insurance differs among removal firms, so clarify the coverage:

Standard Policies: Some companies limit payouts or require higher-value items to be declared.
Extra Coverage: If you own valuables surpassing their threshold, you might need upgraded protection.
Documentation: Keep records of expensive items and alert the mover beforehand.

Knowing exactly what’s insured wards off nasty surprises if something gets damaged or misplaced.

8. Do You Supply Packing Materials?

Packing can be daunting without the right supplies:

All-Inclusive Bundles: Some firms offer complete kits, sparing you the hassle of sourcing boxes, bubble wrap, and tape.
Advice on Quality: Durable boxes protect delicate items better than flimsy alternatives.
Early Delivery: Request packing materials ahead of time if you prefer to pack gradually.

Ask whether they can supply specialist crates for large mirrors, artwork, or electronics.

9. Are Your Removal Teams Fully Trained and Background-Checked?

Reputable movers emphasise staff training and vetting:

Proper Training: Handling techniques reduce the risk of breakage. Staff who know how to wrap fine china or lift heavy furniture are invaluable.
Security Checks: For peace of mind, ask whether employees undergo background checks or sign confidentiality agreements.

Skilled staff also communicate better, making your move day run more smoothly.

Choose Curtiss Moving & Storage for Your House Move

We hope these questions to ask your removals company guide you towards a reliable, customer-focused mover.

With the right team on board, you can handle the challenges of packing, timelines, and logistics with much less stress.

At Curtiss Moving & Storage, our decades of experience ensure a smooth and hassle-free move – from complex logistics to robust insurance plans, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to find out more?

Call us on 023 9298 5830 or fill out our quick online quote form.

Our friendly staff will be happy to discuss your specific requirements and customise a removals package perfectly suited to your home, budget, and schedule.