How to Find a Legitimate Removal Company 2022
If you’ve never worked with a removal company in Dundee or anywhere else, then there are some things you should learn first.
Hiring the first removalist you can find, or the cheapest offer out there is one of the most common moving mistakes.
Here is a complete guide on finding a trustworthy removal company that suits your budget, timeline, and other requirements.
What Do Dundee Removal Companies Do
Removal companies assist people and businesses in transporting goods into a new location (e.g., home or office). Many removalists also offer packing/unpacking and storage services. They can make the delivery of your belongings a lot more organized—whether you’re moving across the country or just a few blocks away.
As the date of move approaches, you may be already overwhelmed by all the paperwork involved. Hiring a legitimate removal company can lift a massive burden from your shoulders.
Ask Removal Company Recommendations from Family and Friends
Personal accounts about services like removals are deemed more reliable. Your family or friend might know a trick or two on how to ease the process or get a discount.
Use Google
The easiest way to find a service provider is to use Google. Simply type “removal companies near me” to get a list of best-reviewed removalists within your locality. You may also try “Top 10 Best Dundee Removals 2022”.
Use Yell
Yell is the online version of the good old Yellow Pages. This website allows users to search companies by location. Typically, a reputable company has a complete profile that shows a list of services, contact numbers, photos of the crew and vehicles, and a link to their official website.
Choose a BAR Registered Removal Company
Finding a reliable company that can move your belongings safely should start looking for the British Association of Removers (BAR) badge.
BAR has been a steadfast promoter of best practices in the removals industry since 1900. They also develop and maintain high standards for customers and their members.
To join, a removal company should meet a stringent set of criteria. It should also adhere to a rigorous Code of Practice because all members are monitored by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI). Membership can be terminated if it’s proven that high standards are not met.
You can expect BAR-registered companies to know the proper handling of different types of goods. They also have a sufficient workforce, tools, and vehicles. BAR also requires its members to acquire specific insurance policies. Therefore, it’s likely that you’ll get quality service from BAR members than non-members.
BAR also offers guidance to unsuccessful applicants keen to reach the standards.
What To Do Before Requesting a Removal Quote
To avoid excessive fees, list down all the items you want to move and get their measurements. By doing this, the removalist will also know what vehicle size is needed for the job. You wouldn’t want to pay for extra space in the truck or multiple trips of a single van.
If you’re going to avail of their packing services, the list can also help get an accurate quote. We would advise that you measure bigger items, such as the sofa and piano. Note that there are also companies specializing in furniture removal in Dundee only.
Book for removal as early as possible. The earlier you decide, the more chances you can avail your desired time and date.
Adding On Insurance Costs
It’s a good idea to check the insurance cost of the transport. Generally, it is a percentage of the value of your belongings or the cost of the move.
Consider a company with Liability Insurance, Reimbursement Insurance, or New for Old Insurance.
Shortlist Your Candidates
Getting quotations from 3 service providers is enough for making comparisons. Ask the following questions to determine who should be included in the shortlist:
Do they have all the services you need? Think about packing/unpacking, re-assembly, storage, climate control, etc. It would not only be costly, but also confusing to hire multiple service providers for a single move.
What areas do they cover? Hiring a mover within site would be practical to avoid additional charges.
What is their track record? Aside from affiliations, look at the customer feedback about your potential removalist. A legitimate removal company would never think twice to provide references.
Are they available on your desired date and time? If your schedule is not flexible, the only choice is the company that can cater to you on your desired date and time. Others are willing to make adjustments for extra charges.
Schedule a Home Survey
A home survey is the best way to get a fixed quote. Most companies offer them for free.
The removalist might request to visit your home or office to assess the stuff you want to move to avoid surprises. This also helps them prepare necessary materials for packing and shipping, especially for items that need special care. Always clarify if the quote is an estimate or a fixed price and have this written.
If you’re packing, they can advise what type of materials suit certain items.
Home surveys often offer the following benefits:
· Give you a chance to bring forward any concerns
· Help the removalist understand your priorities
· Allow the removal company to explain their services in a more comprehensive manner
· Allow the moves to check access and create a plan to how to overcome barriers
Always Ask for a Removal Contract
This can’t be emphasized enough: never do business with a service provider who refuses to prepare a contract.
The contract should indicate the fixed cost, timeline, terms and conditions, and all other pertinent details. Read the contract carefully and never agree on anything you don’t understand. Clarify anything vague for you. Any approved changes should also be in writing.
The British Association of Removers has provided the specific terms and conditions approved by the Trading Standards Institute. These are designed to protect both the customers and the removalists.
What To Do When You’ve Chosen a Removal Company
If all your shortlisted candidates provide the same service quality, same services, same price, and same protection, then you’ll have to trust your gut now.
With whom do you feel confident? Who has made adjustments to suit your requirements? Who is more approachable? Who has catered to your concerns with enthusiasm?
It’s essential that you feel relaxed with the removal company initially. Remember that the point of hiring them is to reduce the stress of your move. So, if talking to them already feels heavy in the chest, move to the next candidate.
How Much Does It Cost to Pay for Removal?
Removal companies in Scotland have different rates, but all of them usually consider the following factors when calculating the cost:
Number and Nature of Items to be Moved
Logically, more items mean more labour, vehicles, and packing materials. To reduce the cost, it’s advised to de-clutter before packing. Dispose of the items that are no longer functional and donate gently-used ones.
The nature of the item is also a crucial factor. For example, it requires specialized equipment and more workforce to move a piano. Expect extra charges for things that need special handling.
The Distance
This is the primary factor when calculating the moving cost. Hiring a removal company near you is the best thing to do because you won’t have to pay for extra distance. Larger vehicles are allowed to pass through certain roads only, which means they might take a longer route.
It’s important to understand that moving companies, like Man with a Van, sets a minimum charge that covers at least 2 hours.
The Timing of Your Booking
Booking in advance increases your chances of getting a good deal. Some removal companies offer a discount for advanced bookings.
Moreover, removal costs are higher during certain times due to high demand. Generally, summer removals tend to be pricier than winter removals. It can also be costly to move during the holidays due to the traffic.
If possible, schedule the move during the low season (fall and winter). We would also advise that you move during weekdays instead of weekends.
The Moving Insurance
There are different types of insurance in the removals industry. Bear in mind that basic moving insurance doesn’t cover the total cost of your belongings. Therefore, if you’re handing the removalist a prized possession, make sure to acquire the right insurance policy.
A reputable removal company will usually discuss needing additional coverage for particular items.
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Money Saving Tips when Hiring a Removals Company
Learn how to save money on your next office or home removal service by following this useful list of tips and tricks. Click the link above to learn more.
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