How to Select the Best Removals Company
Moving home comes with plenty to organise, and choosing a removals company is just one of the tasks that most people want to get sorted quickly. However, trusting people outside of your friends and family with your belongings can bring understandable levels of discomfort, so it is important that you conduct appropriate research before committing to the right removals team. For your peace of mind, this isn’t just a recommendation but a necessity.
At Jack and Jill Removals, we know better than anyone that your removals company can make or break the moving experience. And when this should be an exciting day full of new opportunities, we want you to feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible with the people who are here to help it happen. So here’s our handy guide of what to look for when scouting your removals company.
Check that they’re properly insured
Insurance might not be the most exciting part of arranging a move, but it’s important. A reputable removals company should be upfront about what they’re covered for and able to explain it in plain language. When a company has the right insurance in place, it protects both you and your belongings.
A good company won’t hesitate to show their documents if you ask. This openness is a strong sign that they take their work seriously and operate responsibly.
The key types of insurance to look for are:
- Goods in Transit insurance: This covers your items while they’re being handled and transported
- Public liability insurance: This protects your property in case of accidental damage
Look for experience
Experience makes a huge difference on moving day. An experienced team has seen all the usual challenges before, tight staircases, narrow hallways, oversized furniture, and knows how to handle them calmly and efficiently.
They’ll load the van in a way that keeps everything stable and safe, and they’ll know how to protect fragile or awkward items without making a big fuss about it.
You should feel comfortable asking questions such as:
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you regularly handle moves similar to mine?
- Are your staff in house rather than temporary hires?
Read reviews from real customers
Reviews are one of the simplest ways to get an honest feel for how a removal company works. They can tell you whether the team turns up on time, treats belongings carefully, communicates well, and handles problems sensibly if they arise.
Of course the company themselves will say they’re good at what they do, but reviews will provide an accurate source of information from real people.
Ask about their services up front
Before booking, it helps to be clear on exactly what a company can offer. Every move is a bit different, and knowing what’s available can save you time and stress later.
Common services worth asking about include:
Packing
These can be a real time saver. A packing team brings the materials, wraps everything properly (especially the fragile bits), communicates with you about what you need ahead of time, and keeps things organised.
Furniture dismantling and reassembly
Things like beds, wardrobes, sofas, shelving units, and large tables sometimes need taking apart to move safely. Check whether the company handles this and whether it’s included in the price.
Storage
If there’s a gap between moving out and moving in, or you simply have more than you can take right now, short term storage can be very useful. Some removals companies will offer this service so if it’s something you definitely need or think you might need, always enquire during your first conversation.
Handling fragile items
If you’ve got anything particularly heavy, delicate, or unusual, ask how the company normally deals with it. Getting this information early means you won’t be caught out on moving day.
Get a clear, written quote
A clear quote makes everything more straightforward. It protects you from surprise charges and helps you compare companies fairly. Most good removals companies will offer to visit your home or arrange a video survey before quoting which gives them a proper look at what needs moving and a clearer idea of any complications that could prove a challenge on the day.
Your quote should clearly show:
- The date and time of your move
- How many movers and vehicles are included
- Whether packing, dismantling, or storage is part of the service
- Any possible additional costs
- Whether VAT is included
Make sure communication is good
Good communication goes a long way on moving day. When you speak to the company, pay attention to how they deal with your questions.
You’ll be working closely with the team on the day, so choosing people who communicate well and have a steady approach will help everything run more smoothly.
A friendly, helpful team will usually:
- Listen to what you need
- Explain things clearly
- Respond promptly
- Stay calm and organised
Trust Your Gut Feeling
Once you’ve checked the basics, your instinct is often a good guide.
If a company comes across as organised, honest, and easy to talk to, that’s usually a positive sign. If something feels a bit off like unclear pricing, slow replies, or a rushed approach, it’s okay to look elsewhere. Moving home is busy enough without extra worries, and choosing a removal company should feel comfortable and straightforward.
Moving house can feel like a daunting task, but with the right team around you, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
At Jack and Jill Removals, we’re here to take the strain out of moving day so you can focus on the joy of starting fresh. Our Home Removals team has years of experience in smoothing over the moving process and making things as easy for you as possible. Once the boxes are unpacked and the kettle’s on, you’ll realise that all the effort was worth the hassle.