Moving can be stressful, but good planning makes a big difference. One of the first steps is arranging a quote from a removal company.
At Maidstone Removals, we usually recommend a home visit from one of our estimators. This isn’t just about assessing volume and pricing. A survey allows us to offer guidance on the moving process and gives you a clear sense of our professionalism and service standards, helping you make an informed choice when selecting a removal company.
Step 1: Research Removal Companies
When planning a move, one of the first steps is researching and comparing removal companies. Not all companies offer the same level of service, so it’s important to choose one that is reliable and trustworthy.
Start by searching for removal companies in your area or asking friends, family, or local community groups for recommendations. Local Facebook groups can also be a useful place to hear about people’s experiences.
Next, research each company on your shortlist. Check independent reviews on platforms such as Google Reviews or Checkatrade to understand their reputation and service quality. It’s also worth seeing whether they belong to professional organisations, such as the British Association of Removers, which can indicate recognised industry standards.
Once you have gathered enough information, compare your options. Look at factors such as pricing, services offered, availability, and insurance cover. Aim to shortlist around three companies so you can compare quotes and spot any that seem unusually high or low.
Finally, contact the companies to discuss your move and arrange a pre-move survey, which will allow them to provide an accurate quote. You can also request a quote from Maidstone Removals to get started.
Step 2: Understanding Pre-Move Surveys
A pre-move survey helps the removal company properly plan your move and provide an accurate quote. During the survey they will:
- Calculate the volume of items to be moved
- Assess packing and loading requirements
- Identify items that need special care or handling
- Check property access so the correct vehicle can be used and enough time allowed for loading and unloading
- Review internal access to plan how large items will be moved through tight spaces
- Answer any questions you may have about the move
- Note valuable or fragile items that require extra protection
- Carry out a risk assessment to ensure the move can be completed safely
Understanding these details helps ensure the quote is accurate and fixed, and that the move is properly planned with the right vehicle, equipment and number of crew on the day.
Tips for the home survey:
- Share as much information as you can – from potential move dates to access information at your new home, any concerns you may have, and how you envision the process unfolding in an ideal world. The more information you provide, the more accurate the quote will be, ensuring a seamless and stress-free moving experience for you.
- Show them ALL the items that require moving – open up cupboards, show them garages, lofts, and outdoor spaces etc. so that the removal company can accurately assess the resources needed for your move in full. Also, be sure to mention any new purchases you plan to make before the moving day.
- Point out what items you DON’T want to be moved – this will ensure everything is delivered to the right place and prevent you from paying for unnecessary items.
- Highlight any special care or valuable items that require extra protection or handling.
- Talk about the type of assistance you’d like – whether you need help with packing or prefer to handle it yourself, or if having a handyman assist with dismantling items would be beneficial.
- Be upfront about any challenging situations – not all moves are straightforward, so it’s essential to inform the removal company about any potential obstacles such as poor access, restricted parking, or tricky items. Transparency will help avoid additional charges or complications on the moving day.
- Don’t be tempted to book a visit with only one company and share information from their home visit with others. Each survey is a manual calculation based on the surveyor’s expertise, and having multiple surveys allows you to compare and spot any significant discrepancies that could impact costs or the moving process.
Step 3: Decide on Services Needed
Consider what services you require beyond transportation.
- Packing: Our professional packing services can save time and ensure your items are handled correctly.
- Storage solutions: If you need to store items temporarily, short-term or long-term, ask about our storage facilities and solutions.
- Specialty services: If you have unique items like pianos or artwork, inquire about specialized handling and packaging.
Step 4: Understand the Quote
When you receive quotes, pay attention to the details. Here are some key elements to consider:
- Breakdown of costs: Ensure you understand what is included in the quote (number of days, transport, packing materials, etc.).
- Insurance coverage: Check if the company offers insurance for your belongings during transit and understand the level of cover. Maidstone Removals offer insurance as standard on all quotations, providing your acceptance form is completed and returned to us.
- Terms and conditions: Read your terms and conditions, this will help you fully understand the terms of each company. Check the booking arrangements and cancellation policy.
Step 5: Ask Questions
Some questions you can ask include:
- What is included in the quote? Make sure you understand what services are covered and if there are any additional charges.
- How long have you been in the removal business and what are your qualifications? Experience and expertise is important when it comes to handling your move.
- Are my belongings insured for the move? It’s crucial to choose a removal company that has adequate insurance coverage in case of any damages or accidents during the move. Removal companies all offer different types of insurance so take the time to understand your cover properly to make sure you’re comfortable.
- Do you provide packing materials? If you need assistance with packing, ask if the company provides packing materials and what the additional cost is.
- What is your availability? Make sure the company can accommodate your preferred moving date and time – if you don’t have one yet that’s not a problem, you can work with estimates and confirm nearer the time.
Step 6: Read Reviews and Check References
- Once you have narrowed down your options, take time to read customer reviews and, if possible, ask for references. A company with consistently positive feedback and a strong reputation is more likely to deliver a reliable and stress-free moving experience.
- After choosing your removal company, confirm your moving date as early as possible. Booking in advance gives you the best chance of securing your preferred date.
- When reviewing quotes from different removal companies, look beyond the price alone. The lowest quote is not always the best choice, so it’s important to consider the service offered, what is included, and the company’s overall reputation.
Final Thoughts
Arranging a removal company quote is an important step in planning a successful move. By researching reputable companies, arranging a pre-move survey, understanding what is included in your quote, and asking the right questions, you can avoid surprises and ensure your move runs smoothly.
Taking the time to compare options and plan ahead will help reduce stress and give you confidence that your belongings are in safe hands on moving day.
If you’re planning a move and would like professional guidance from an experienced team, Maidstone Removals would be happy to help. Get in touch with or friendly team if you have any questions, or go right ahead and book a survey today, and start planning your move with confidence.