There are certain things that you should bare in mind when booking removal services or when choosing a removal company. It’s not just as simple as going online and calling the first company you come across. Different removal companies differ in the ways that they operate, so it’s important that you recognise some of the tell tale signs of quality from a professional and well reputed company and when you’re being taken for a ride by the new kids on the block.

1.    First things first, decide if you actually need a removal company.
If you’re the type of person that likes to take control of a situation and you feel you can move house on your own without any help, then start looking into removal van hire services.  However, don’t underestimate the amount of work that goes into a removal job. It will require a lot of hard work on your part, heavy lifting, and possibly some toing and froing back to your old house. If you are considering carrying out the move yourself, don’t be a hero. Ask for some help from friends or family to help you with the lifting and unloading so that you don’t arrive at your new place exhausted and in a crumpled mess. If you’re moving from a small one bedroom apartment and don’t have a lot of possessions to move, then fair enough. But if you’re moving a large amount of items, and some big, heavy items of furniture, call up a company that specialises in house removals, so that you can concentrate on the other aspects of your move.

2.    Look around and do plenty of research before making a booking.
There are plenty of companies that will offer you attractive deals to draw you in, but when the time comes to put their words into action, they’ll deliver you a substandard service, adding a great deal of stress to what is already a stressful time for you. Avoid this by getting quotes from as many companies as you can. Most companies will offer you a quote on their website, however it’s better to give them a call so that you can describe in detail what you need helping with on moving day, which will enable you to get a more accurate price assessment in return. But don’t rush this process. Start getting quotes well before you’re due to move, because it’s highly likely that the best companies are booked up for weeks and months at a time, so do your research well in advance.

3.    Don’t forget about insurance.
Most of the top quality companies will be able to provide you with insurance to protect your items in the case of any damages or theft during their transportation. But make sure you ask if this is the case and don’t just take it for granted that you’ll be getting your items insured when you make a booking.

4.    For cheap removals, try to arrange your house move on a weekday to avoid the busiest times.
Many people tend to move on a weekend, so to save yourself a bit of extra cash, move on a weekday instead. Negotiate with your company and see if you can get any cheeky discounts, if you move at a certain time or day etc.

5.    Be wary of man and a van companies.
Although most of these companies will deliver you with a quality service at cheaper prices, there are some that are just general handymen and will agree to take on your job without knowing the first thing about removals. Get some recommendations first to help you choose the right company.