How to Choose the Best Removals Company

Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter, but the process of getting there can be overwhelming.

Anyone who has moved before knows that packing up your life isn’t just about boxes and bubble wrap.

It’s about entrusting strangers with your cherished belongings.

Thousands of people underestimate the time and effort required to move each year, which often leads to unnecessary stress and last-minute scrambles.

A DIY move is incredibly challenging and often dangerous!

Many injuries are sustained through inexperience in handling heavy objects, and it takes significantly longer, requiring more trips.

A man and van option can also be problematic.

These services often lack the professional expertise, equipment, and insurance coverage that established moving companies offer.

It’s no wonder that many choose to leave their move to the experts.

But with countless moving companies vying for your attention, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

Whether you’re a first-time mover or a seasoned relocator, this guide to choosing the best removals company will help you navigate the maze of options and find a company that meets your needs.

Start Early: Schedule a Free Removals Survey

Booking a free no-obligation removals survey is the best way to get an accurate quote for your move. 

Top-tier moving companies are in high demand, especially during the busy peak seasons like the summer holidays.

To secure your preferred moving date, initiate the process well ahead of your anticipated move.

Begin by arranging an accessible home or virtual survey.

Booking a removals survey is crucial for the following:

• Assessing Your Needs: A professional surveyor will evaluate the volume of your belongings and identify any special requirements, such as navigating tight staircases or handling bulky furniture.
• Accurate Quoting: An in-person or video assessment ensures you receive a precise quote, minimising the risk of unexpected costs on moving day.
• Planning Ahead: Early surveys give you ample time to address any challenges, like obtaining parking permits for the moving truck or scheduling elevator use in apartment buildings.

Check for Accreditation and Credentials

Choose a BAR member for your move.

Trust is paramount when hiring a moving company.

One way to gauge reliability is by checking for industry accreditations:

• British Association of Removers (BAR): Membership indicates adherence to high standards and a commitment to professional excellence.
• FIDI & OMNI Affiliations: For international moves, these global organisations ensure the company meets stringent quality benchmarks worldwide.

Affiliated companies are regularly audited and provide dispute-resolution mechanisms, offering you peace of mind.

Evaluate the Services Offered

Choose a company that offers everything you need.

Not all moving companies offer the same range of services.

Identify what you need before the move and pick a company that offers these services.

If you haven’t moved before or simply aren’t quite sure what you need, check out some of the services White & Company offer below:

• Packing and Unpacking: Do you require assistance boxing up your items or setting them up in your new home?
• Specialty Item Handling: If you own pianos, artwork, or antiques, ensure the company has the experience and equipment to handle them safely.
• Furniture Assembly/Disassembly: Professional movers can take apart and reassemble most items of furniture, saving you time and effort.
• Storage Solutions: If there’s a gap between move-out and move-in dates, inquire about short-term storage options.

Always communicate your specific needs upfront to avoid misunderstandings and additional fees further down the line.

Compare Quotes from Different Companies

While cost shouldn’t be the sole deciding factor, it’s essential to get value for your money.

Obtain at least three quotes from different companies to compare:

• Pricing: Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than others—they might be cutting corners.
• Services Included: Ensure each quote outlines what’s covered to make an apples-to-apples comparison.
• Flexibility: Consider companies that offer customisable packages to suit your unique needs.

You should also take the time to ask each of the companies about any specific requirements you may have.

Asking questions is a great way to get a feel for a company, and the answers they give you could really set them apart!

But what questions should you ask? Let’s explore a few next!

Key Questions to Ask Prospective Movers

Find out everything you need to know about your move with these key questions.

• Experience and Expertise: How long have they been in business? Do they specialise in local, long-distance, or international moves?
• Customer Feedback: Can they provide references or direct you to customer reviews?
• Insurance Coverage: What kind of liability coverage do they offer? Is full-value protection available?
• Delay and Cancellation Policies: What happens if your move is postponed or cancelled?
• Complaint Resolution: How do they handle customer complaints or disputes?

Read Reviews and Testimonials

Customer reviews give a great insight into how well a company performs.

First-hand experiences from previous customers can offer valuable insights. Look for reviews on independent platforms like Trustpilot or Referenceline.

Pay attention to these details:

• Consistency: Are customers consistently satisfied with their services?
• Response to Criticism: How does the company address negative feedback?

Be cautious of companies with overwhelmingly positive reviews that seem generic or fabricated.

Though most companies go out of their way to ensure the move is carried out professionally, sometimes things do go wrong, and misunderstandings occur.

However, the way your complaint is handled can turn a negative situation into a positive one.

Understand Insurance Options

Find out what insurance options are available for your move.

Protecting your belongings during the move is crucial. Discuss insurance options with your mover:

• Standard Liability Coverage is often calculated per item or per pound but may not cover the full value of high-end items.
• Full-Value Protection: Offers more comprehensive coverage but may come at an additional cost.
• Third-Party Insurance: For valuable items, consider purchasing extra coverage from an external provider.

Always read the fine print to understand what’s covered and any exclusions that may apply.

It also pays to check with your home insurance company as some cover house moves.

Clarify Policies on Delays and Complaints

Unforeseen delays can happen. Knowing the company’s policies helps you prepare:

• Delay Policies: Do they offer storage solutions if there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates?
• Complaints Procedure: Is there a straightforward process for addressing issues that may arise?

A company with transparent policies demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Special Considerations for European and International Moves

If you are moving overseas, you may need a different service.

If you’re relocating abroad, additional factors come into play:

• Customs Expertise: The company should guide you through customs documentation and regulations.
• International Partnerships: Affiliations with global moving networks can ensure consistent service standards.
• Additional Services: Assistance with pet relocation, vehicle shipping, and cultural orientation can be invaluable.

Engaging with expat communities online can also provide support and practical advice for settling into your new country.

Ready to Move? Get a Quote Today

At White & Company, we’ve been helping individuals and families relocate for over 150 years.

We understand that every move is unique, and we’re committed to providing tailored services to meet your specific needs.

Why Choose White & Company?

• Experienced Professionals: Our skilled team handles your belongings with care and expertise.
• Comprehensive Services: From packing and storage to European and international shipping, we’ve got you covered.
• Nationwide Presence: With 19 secure warehouse locations across the UK, we offer convenient solutions wherever you’re moving.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our long-standing reputation speaks to our dedication to exceptional service.

Get Your Free, No-Obligation Survey

We provide a completely free-of-charge, no-obligation removal survey as part of our removals service.

Our friendly surveyors can visit your home or arrange a video call to assess your moving needs.

We’ll provide a detailed quote and answer any questions you may have.

Ready to make your next move your best move?

Call us or fill out our Quick Quote Form online.

A member of our team will be in touch promptly to help you get started.

Moving doesn’t have to be a worrisome experience.

With a trustworthy moving company by your side, you can focus on the exciting journey ahead.

No matter where your next life chapter is taking you, let White & Company handle the heavy lifting so you can settle into your new home with ease (minus the backache)!

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.