Moving to a new place is both exciting and a bit scary. We’ve all felt a little nervous about making sure our belongings are safe during the move and that the whole procedure goes well.
And the experts confirm it: according to psychologist Meredith Fuller, moving has been ranked as one of the top five most stressful life events. And why, you may ask? Well, it turns out that 23% of households couldn’t afford the expenses associated with moving, while 19% just couldn’t muster up the energy to make it happen. There were several reasons for the increased mobility, refer below table data by Australian Bureau of Statistics (2013-2014).
Top reasons for moving by Australian Bureau of Statistics (2013-2014)
But why is moving so stressful? Well, it’s a time of change and uncertainty, which can trigger feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. There are also the physical and logistical challenges of packing up your entire life and relocating to a new place.
One crucial decision you will make during the moving process is selecting the right removal company. Making the right choice of hiring a reliable and reputable removal company can ensure a hassle-free and seamless move.
Conversely, choosing the wrong removal company can result in lost or damaged belongings, delays, and additional unforeseen expenses. To help you make an informed decision, here are some smart questions to ask before hiring local removalists.
Don’t Forget to Ask Your Removalists These Questions
Before you call a removalist, it’s important to ask a few questions to ensure you’re getting the best service for your money. Here are some of the top Qs to ask:
Q1: Are You Licenced and Insured?
When it comes to hiring a removal company, you want to ensure that you’re working with a team that operates legally and professionally. That’s where licensing comes in–it’s like a stamp of approval that they follow certain standards and regulations. And who doesn’t love a bit of peace of mind, right?
But let’s not forget about the importance of insurance! Accidents happen, and you want to ensure you’re covered in case of any damage or loss of your precious belongings during the move.
A reliable removal company should have not just one, but two types of insurance–public liability and transit insurance. This way, you can rest easy knowing you’re protected from any potential mishaps.
Q2: What Services Do You Offer?
Different removal companies offer different services. Knowing what services you need and what the company offers is essential. Some common services that removal companies offer include:
- Disassembly & Assembly
- Packing and unpacking
- Loading and unloading
- Transportation
- Temporary storage solutions
If you require any of these services, ask about them upfront. Companies may offer package deals that include multiple services, saving you time and money in the long run.
Q3: What Are Your Rates?
Ah, money–the topic no one wants to talk about, but everyone needs to consider. When hiring a removal company, knowing the cost of their services is crucial for budgeting and planning purposes. You don’t want to be hit with a surprise bill at the end of the move, do you?
So, let’s talk pricing. Some companies charge by the hour, while others offer a flat rate. Hourly rates are based on how much time it takes to complete the move, while flat rates are calculated based on the total weight or volume of your belongings. It’s important to ask which pricing model your potential removal company uses to ensure you get the best deal.
But wait, there’s more–additional fees can sneak up on you if you’re not careful. Make sure to ask if there are any petrol surcharges, stair fees, or added costs for extra packing materials. By clarifying these details upfront, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises at the end of the day.
Refer to the below screenshot from our home page to get an idea of how much we charge based on manpower, volume, and truck.Â
Q4: Do You Provide Packing Materials?
Now, let’s talk about packing–the key to ensuring that your belongings survive the move unscathed. And how do you achieve that? With suitable packing materials, of course! Boxes, tape, bubble wrap–they’re the unsung heroes of the moving process.
But not all removal companies are created equal when it comes to packing materials. Some may provide them as part of their service, while others may require you to purchase them separately. It’s important to clarify this upfront so you can factor in the cost of packing materials in your budget.
And here’s a pro tip: don’t forget to ask about the quality and durability of the materials. You want to avoid being stuck with flimsy boxes that can’t hold up to the weight of your belongings or bubble wrap that doesn’t provide enough cushioning. By ensuring that the packing materials are up to snuff, you can rest easy knowing that your precious belongings are in good hands.
Q5: How Long Have You Been in Business?
You want a removal company that knows the ins and outs of the process like the back of their hand. And who can blame you? You’re entrusting them with your most prized possessions, after all.
So, how do you ensure that you’re working with a team of seasoned pros? Look for a company that has been in business for many years. Having more experience under their belt means that they’ve likely encountered a wide range of situations and have developed the expertise to handle any challenges that come their way.
And here’s another perk of working with an experienced removal company–they may have a more extensive network of resources at their disposal. From a fleet of trucks to state-of-the-art equipment, they’ll have everything they need to make your move successful.
Before you sign on the dotted line, ask about the company’s experience and how long they’ve been in business. With a team of seasoned pros on your side, you can have a hassle-free experience.
Q6: Can You Provide References?
Contacting these references can give you an idea of the level of service you can expect. Some questions to ask are:
- Was the company professional and courteous?
- Did they arrive on time and complete the move within the agreed-upon timeframe?
- Were there any damages or losses to your belongings during the move?
- Would you recommend this company to others?
If they can’t provide references, then you must at least check customer reviews or testimonials. You can reach out to their former clients and be ready with your set of questions.
Q7: What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
Picture this: you’ve got your move all planned out, boxes packed and ready to go. But then, life throws you a curveball, and you must cancel or reschedule your move. Yikes!
That’s why knowing the ins and outs of a removalist company’s cancellation policy is crucial before you sign on the dotted line. Some companies may charge a pesky cancellation fee if you cancel within a certain timeframe. Others may allow you to reschedule without any penalties.
So, what’s a savvy mover to do? Ask the company about its cancellation policy and any associated fees or charges. That way, you can prepare for unexpected changes and decide which local removalist service to hire. After all, knowledge is power, and being in the know can save you time, money and a whole lot of stress.
The Bottom Line
But don’t stop there–make sure to do your research. Compare quotes from multiple companies, read reviews from other customers and get a sense of their overall reputation in the industry.
Once you’ve found the right cheap removalist company, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a seamless move to your new home. After all, anything is possible with the right team by your side!
Are you looking for a removalist company that goes above and beyond to make your move a breeze? Look no further than Six Brothers Removalist, the experts in home and office removals. Our team offers a range of services to make your move as stress-free as possible. From packing and unpacking to storage options, we’ve got you covered. Contact us if you’re looking for removalists in Sydney!
