You’ve found your dream home and you can’t wait to move in. You have enough on your plate right now, so you need a removals company to help you transport your belongings to your new home. But with so many things to think about, you’re wondering, when is the best time to book a removals company?
This guide will help you determine the best time to get a quote, what to expect from your chosen company, what they’ll need from you, and when to book your move.
What’s the best time to book a removals company?
Ideally, you should start looking for quotes from removal companies around 4 to 6 weeks before your expected moving date.
Even if you don’t have a confirmed date yet, you’ll usually have a rough idea of your completion timescale at this stage.
Do I have to wait until I’ve exchanged contracts to book a removals firm?
No, you don’t need to have exchanged contracts or have a completion date to get quotes for your removals.
Make sure you know what type of service you’ll require when getting quotes and booking your date.
A good company will usually offer a free home survey, or if that’s not possible, alternatives such as video surveys or inventory lists. However, a home survey is typically the best way to get an accurate quote.
What information do I need to give a removals company?
When getting a quote, provide as much information as possible to avoid unexpected charges on moving day. You should include details such as:
- Location
- Access details for both properties, including any restrictions for vehicle height or width, narrow country lanes, street parking, driveways, or permit zones
- Type of property such as townhouse, bungalow, terraced, or flat (and which floor, with or without a lift)
- If you need part or full packing services
- All items for removal, including garages, sheds, and gardens
- Any specialist items such as pianos, grandfather clocks, or artwork
- Whether you require furniture dismantling or reassembly
- An approximate number of boxes
- Your estimated moving date
What questions should I be asking a removals company?
When comparing removal companies, you’ll want to make sure they can deliver on their promises and meet your needs. Key questions to ask include:
- Do they have availability around your moving date?
- Are they insured, and how much coverage do they provide? All reputable companies should have public liability and goods-in-transit insurance.
- Do they offer packing services if needed?
- Do they supply boxes?
- What protection do they provide for your belongings (blankets, covers, TV protection, etc.)?
- If moving long distance, how long will it take? For example, a move may involve loading and travel one day, then unloading the next.
- Do they require a deposit? Most reputable firms do, as it confirms your booking and ensures commitment from both sides.
- Are there any extra charges for waiting for keys? Some companies include this as a key waiver, while others charge by the hour after a certain time.
- Bonus question: What are their preferred refreshments? (This one’s a joke, but a thoughtful gesture never goes unnoticed! 😊)
How many quotes should I get, and how do I choose between them?
Aim for at least two, ideally three quotes. That way, if your preferred company isn’t available, you’ll have alternatives ready.
Meeting representatives from each company will give you an idea of their professionalism and help you gauge whether you’ll feel comfortable with them on moving day.
Good rapport matters. You’ll be trusting them with your belongings, so mutual respect and transparency go a long way.
While price is a factor, remember it often reflects the quality of service. Cheaper isn’t always better, especially if insurance and protection standards are lower.
Also, check the size of vehicles provided, number of staff, and whether they can clear your house by 1 p.m., as most completion-day moves require this.
When should I confirm my booking?
This varies between companies, but never pay a deposit until your solicitor confirms your completion date. Booking prematurely can risk losing your deposit or facing extra costs if the date changes.
Find a trusted removal company in Burnley, Clitheroe, and Blackburn
To summarise, here’s what you need to know when booking your removals company:
- Contact removal companies 4 to 6 weeks in advance
- Know the details you need to provide
- Ask the right questions to ensure they meet your needs
- Choose your preferred company
- Book your moving date
If you’re looking for a reliable removals company in Burnley, Clitheroe, Blackburn, and surrounding areas, request a free quote today and get your move underway! 😊
