Finding a good removal firm, with an excellent reputation, is a big part of the puzzle when it comes to having a stress free move.
When you’re trusting someone with all your worldly possessions, you want to make sure you make a wise and considered decision. You want them to take care of your fine china, your antique furniture, your favourite pictures and your prized HDTV as if they were their own.
So, how do you find that trusted removal firm to use? Here are some top tips from us:
- A great track record. Many removal firms have been going for some time – look for one which has a long and well-respected history. When you’ve been going more than 50 years like McCarthy’s, you’ve seen it all and overcome all kinds of moving-related challenges – so nothing phases us!
- Check for BAR approval. The BAR (British Association of Removers) is our industry body. To be a member you have to follow a code of conduct and as a customer it gives you guarantees and somewhere to go if you’re unhappy with the service provided. You always want to ensure your removal firm is a BAR member – and don’t just take their word for it – check on the BAR website or you can even give them a call.
- Phone a friend. A great way to find someone you can trust is to ask friends and family for their recommendations. There’s no greater endorsement than genuine word of mouth!
- Avoid things that seem too good to be true. The saying goes “if you pay peanuts, you get monkeys”. If someone is charging a ridiculously low fee to offer you a removal service, you need to question why. Perhaps it’s as simple as them not sending more than one person, or a small van – but if you’re moving a whole house is that suitable? How much extra time will it take for multiple journeys, and will someone be waiting to move into your old house? What if it’s not completed within the day?
- Beware the cowboys. Be careful of any removal service which only has a mobile number to contact them – and no office premises. That makes for someone who could be impossible to get hold of when you really need them. After all, if they fail to turn up on the day and aren’t answering their mobile number, what option would you have?
- Extra services. Might you require storage as part of your move? What happens if you find out you have to move out of your old home but your new home isn’t quite ready? Ask if they can provide storage in relevant situations, or what they would recommend.
- Look for reliable reviews. Don’t rely on ones from a ‘Mr Smith in Leeds’ supposedly quoted on a website or Facebook page, take a look at whether they have an independent review system such as Reevoo or Feefo. They should give you a good indication of the quality of the service offered.
- Gut feel. There’s a lot to be said for gut feel. Make sure you meet someone face to face and speak to them on the phone. Can they easily and confidently answer any questions or worries you may have, without sounding like they’re fobbing you off? Don’t ignore it if your inner alarm system is trying to make a bit of noise!
If we can help make your move as stress free as possible, why not give us a call?
