How to choose a removal company

This step is normally very time consuming as you have to do some research and make a number of phone calls to get reasonable quotes from quality house removal companies. A good way to start is to ask friends and family whether they can recommend a firm for you. Besides this, search for removal companies that are members of the British Association of Removers. Alternatively, rather than phoning around for full-rate quotes, you can list your home removals request with Shiply and get quotes from thousands of rated home removal companies.

Before calling home removal firms or listing up your moving request, decide which level of service you require. Full-service is the most convenient option, as the home removal firm carries out all aspects of the removal from the packaging up of your goods and furniture, loading/unloading and then unpacking at the new address. However, this is also the most expensive option.

Semi-service is a popular choice if you want to save money, as the removal firm will only handle loading and unloading goods while you will be responsible for packing/unpacking.

Self-service (the cheapest option) is for when all you require is either someone to drive their removal lorry or drive a lorry you have rented yourself. You will remain responsible for the packing/unpacking & loading/unloading of your goods at both ends. It can be tempting to select this option but make sure that you have sufficient time and manpower to carry the work.

It is also important that you have a list of the items you want to transport (i.e. inventory) as it is a key area which home removal firms will look at when giving you the quotes. Often home removal firms may request to visit your house before making a quote to get to know the amount of furniture and boxes that you are moving so they can provide the right number of staff and appropriate sized vehicles to help with the move.

Do not forget to agree on the date you require your home to be moved. You may wish to move on a Friday, which gives you the whole weekend to unpack before you have to go back to work. However, make sure all the facilities in your new home are running smoothly as a weekend without power and gas is not a pleasant way of starting your life in the new home.

All home removal firms should have adequate insurance coverage. However, don’t take their word for it. After all, this is your life possessions and your prerogative that they remain protected in transit. So, be sure to see copies of the relevant insurance prior to the moving date.

Finally, do give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your moving date by booking your removal firm as soon as possible (ideally at least a month before your desired move date). You will find that by leaving it to the last minute, there may be a lack of reputable movers still available along with the most competitive quotes.