Moving can be exciting but stressful, especially when you’re unsure how to find the right removalist to help with your big move. Whether you’re moving across town or to another state, one thing’s clear: you want a removalist you can trust with your belongings.
The last thing you need is someone showing up late, damaging your furniture, or slapping you with hidden fees. So, how do you find a removalist who’s reliable, professional, and within your budget? That’s where this guide comes in.
We’ll walk you through the key steps to ensure you find a removalist that’s right for you, from checking reviews to comparing quotes and ensuring insurance. Platforms like Upmove make this process easier by connecting you with top-rated removalists in just a few clicks.
So, let’s jump in and make your moving experience as stress-free as possible.
Step 1: Check Online Reviews and Testimonials
You’ve probably done this before when booking a hotel or buying a new gadget—checking the reviews is one of the quickest ways to see what you’re getting into. It’s no different when it comes to finding a removalist. But don’t just glance at the star rating; dig a little deeper. Look at what people say about the removalist’s punctuality, how careful they were with belongings, and whether there were any nasty surprises in the bill.
If you’re using Upmove, reviews on the platform are from real customers who’ve used the service. Verified reviews give you confidence that you’re getting the full picture. And if you spot a removalist with consistent positive feedback, it’s a good sign you’re onto a winner.
It’s also a good idea to look for reviews specific to your type of move. For example, if you’re moving interstate, check what people have said about long-distance moves. Did the removalist handle the logistics well? Was everything delivered on time? If their feedback ticks all the boxes, you’re probably in good hands.
Step 2: Compare Quotes
Whether you’ve decided to use Upmove, who take care of reaching out to removalists for you, or you’ve gathered each of the quotes yourself, now’s the time to start comparing them. Don’t just go with the first one that pops up—it’s worth taking the time to get a few quotes to see what the going rate is for your type of move.
Some removalists may include services like packing, while others might charge extra for stairs or narrow hallways. You want to know exactly what’s included in the price. And if a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Suspiciously low quotes can sometimes mean hidden fees or subpar service, so be cautious.
Step 3: Verify Licences and Insurance
This is a crucial step that a lot of people overlook. You wouldn’t hire a builder without making sure they’re licensed, so why should a removalist be any different?
Always check that your removalist is properly licensed and insured, and definitely be familiar with your rights when moving house. You want to know that if something goes wrong—like if your favourite couch gets damaged during the move—you’re covered.
Professional removalists should have public liability insurance, and they all do on Upmove, This takes a huge load off your shoulders and gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re working with professionals. Plus, if they’re a reputable company, they won’t have any problem providing proof.
Step 4: Ask About Experience and Specialisation
Not all moves are the same, and not all removalists have the same level of experience. Some are pros at handling long-distance or interstate moves, while others might specialise in tricky items like pianos or art pieces.
When you’re sourcing through removalist booking platforms, make sure to be super accurate when filling in details about your items. Otherwise, if you’re looking and booking on your own - ask your removalist about their experience with your type of move before you book. If you’ve got fragile or valuable items, make sure they know how to handle them.
For example, if you’re moving from a high-rise apartment with limited access, you want a removalist who’s done that type of move before. They’ll know how to navigate tight spaces, lift heavy items without damaging anything, and work within time constraints.
Step 5: Understand Additional Services and Charges
You’ve probably heard horror stories of people getting slapped with hidden fees after the move is done. To avoid this, use a booking platform like Upmove. It allows users to compare quotes from multiple removalists, including details of services offered such as packing and storage. The platform emphasises transparency in pricing, with a strict “no hidden fees” policy, making sure that customers can see all costs upfront.
If you’re not using a booking platform make sure you fully understand what’s included in your quote. Does the removalist offer packing services? What about disassembling and reassembling furniture? Is there an extra charge for stairs or long carry distances? These are the types of questions you should be asking upfront to avoid any surprises later.
Step 6: Communicate Clearly
It might sound basic, but clear communication is essential when it comes to a smooth move. Once you’ve picked your removalist, make sure you’re both on the same page. Confirm details like the date and time of the move, any special requirements, and access points for the moving truck. The more information you can provide, the smoother the process will be.
Conclusion: Your Move, Made Simple
Finding a trusted removalist doesn’t have to be a headache. By following these simple steps—checking reviews, comparing quotes, verifying insurance, and keeping communication clear—you can make sure your move goes off without a hitch.
When you use Upmove, you’re taking a lot of the guesswork out of the process. You get access to top-rated removalists, multiple quotes, and all the information you need to make an informed decision.
So, whether you’re moving across town or across the country, you’ve got the tools to find the right removalist for the job. Your next move just got a whole lot easier!
