Top 5 Questions You Should Ask Your Removalist

Moving house is a huge undertaking, and it's important to ensure that you have partnered with the right service provider so that everything advances according to plan. You leave your removalist in charge of all your valuable possessions; therefore, you have to think carefully and consider all relevant points. Below are five of the most important questions that should be answered before making your final decision:

1. How long have you been in service?

The ideal removalist should have been in the business for at least a few years. Like everything else, experience helps to hone a removalist's practising skill. In addition, longer periods give you more references to check with, so that you're better assured of the quality of service. However, you may still consider a new company provided the business owner has proven extensive experience in the field.

2. Are you registered?

Not only should your removalist be a registered company, they should also be registered with AFRA (Australian Furniture Removers Association). AFRA membership gives you reassurance that they have the right premises, equipment, premises and staff to handle moving projects professionally.

3. Are your staff permanently employed?

Be wary about removalist companies that only hire casual labourers as this may indicate that they are small or just starting out. If the company is not yet able to employ workers on a full-time basis, they may also not have the resources to fully cover liability should anything get damaged in the course of your move.

4. Do you have insurance?

The ideal removalist should have comprehensive insurance for their transport vehicle as well as your possessions. Where the company offers insurance for your possessions, you should be given a Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement. They should be able to answer all your questions. Find out if there are any exclusions that void your insurance. Does the package cover goods being loaded or off-loaded and arranged, or is it only for goods in transit? Make sure to read the fine-print.

5. What does your quote include?

Ensure you fully read your quote, which should include details of all possible charges for easy comparison with other providers. Some removalists charge an hourly rate, while others charge according to distance or quantity. If you have complex circumstances such as difficult-to-reach locations, inter-state or international moves, you need to indicate that and get a quote for all possible charges.

In addition, find out their policies on unanticipated circumstances, e.g. if the move takes longer than estimated, if there's bad weather or if you need to cancel the contract before moving for any reason. Finally, find out how payment is done: Is there a deposit? How are damages reimbursed? Be confident about the reputation of removalists that expect full payment before the job is done.


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