Moving house is one of the more stressful times in our lives. There is so much to consider, and even more to organise, before you can even think about relaxing in your new home. The good news is that, if you hire an expert removals team, the whole process becomes much smoother and easier. Before you get there though, you need to determine who to hire.
These are the key factors to consider before you make a decision on what moving company to go with.
1. Local
Although there are some big names in removals, our first advice would be to look local. You’ll get the same excellent service, if not better, with an additional level of care from working with a small team. Family-run businesses, in particular, take a lot of pride in their work — and you’ll reap the benefits.
Remember to start this research early so you have plenty of time to compare companies and estimates.
2. Cost
Most removals companies will charge based on the amount that needs to be moved, and the resources needed to do it. Other influential factors include packing time, access, size of vehicles and number of staff required.
Consider how much it could cost to complete your move, and what your budget is. Once you’ve done this, you should ask reliable removal companies for a quote.
Keep in mind that, if you live in a small one bedroom with not many items, you might be able to hire a van and move yourself. For anything bigger, a removals team still remains your best bet.
Quote
Your cost should be available in an accurate and tailored-to-you removals quotation. In other words, your quote should be specific to your move, right down to the specific items that need to be moved. A good removals firm will explain their charges, and how you might be able to lower the cost.
Remember that the cheapest quote is not necessarily the best. It’s worth investing in a more expensive service, if it means your move is smooth and secure.
As a golden rule, if a moving company doesn’t give you an estimate or quote, you shouldn’t hire them!
3. Reviews
Yelp, Trustpilot and Google My Business Reviews are a great indicator of how trustworthy a moving company is. You’ll want to pick a team that has delivered excellent service in the past, based on good reviews and authentic customer testimonies.
Keep in mind that trust and experience go hand-in-hand. The chances are that the more experienced your team are, the better their service and facilities. We know this to be true – our 131 years of expertise at Falconer Removals is reflected in our 5* reviews.
Word of Mouth
As well as online reviews, word of mouth and in-person referrals from family, friends and colleagues are a good indicator of if you should choose a particular removals team.
Alternatively, if you’re working with an estate agent, you can ask them if they have any reliable movers they trust.
4. License and Insured
This might seem obvious, but make sure your moving company is licensed and insured. Although things don’t often go wrong, a good removals firm should have comprehensive insurance to cover your items if anything were to happen.
5. Can They Accommodate Your Requirements?
Do you have antique, valuable or otherwise awkward items that need to be moved? Make sure your removals team are qualified to move them. Whether its a delicate grandfather clock, a valuable painting, a heavy garden statue or just some odd shaped furniture, your removals team should factor this in to their plan and costs for you.
You should also check if your removals teams do the basics. Will your movers pack for you? Will they provide boxes, blankets, and other moving supplies? Ask the right questions to avoid unexpected costs and stress.
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To learn more about our purpose-built storage facilities or removals services, take a look at out our website or contact Nathan. At Falconers we use meticulous moving techniques, passed down and perfected through generations for over 132 years, to ensure your furniture and white goods are stored and kept in perfect condition.
For more expert advice on how to pack, move and store your belongings — or other important information on how removals work — check out our blog page.
