1. Is your quote fixed or subject to change?
A fixed price means you pay the quoted amount regardless of how long the move takes. An hourly rate is riskier — delays (traffic, slow lifts, complex access) can push the bill up significantly.
2. What exactly is included in the quote?
Ask for a line-by-line breakdown. Packing, materials, dismantling, parking permits, congestion/ULEZ charges, and stairs surcharges can all be extras. Get every inclusion listed in writing.
3. What are the potential additional charges?
Common extras include: waiting time if completion is delayed, long carry charges (if the van can't park close), stairs surcharges, and fuel supplements. Ask them to list everything that could add to the final bill.
4. Is VAT included in the quote?
Always check — some quotes are given exclusive of VAT, which adds 20% to the price. If the company isn't VAT registered, this could mean they're a very small operation (not necessarily a problem, but worth knowing).
5. Do you charge extra for a Friday move?
Friday is the most popular moving day and many firms charge a premium. If your completion day is flexible, ask what the mid-week saving would be.
6. What goods-in-transit insurance do you carry?
Ask for the total cover amount and whether it's based on weight (e.g., £40 per kg — outdated and poor value for electronics) or declared value. The latter is far better for high-value items.
7. Are self-packed boxes covered?
Many insurers exclude damage to self-packed items unless the damage is due to an accident involving the vehicle. If you're packing yourself, check the specific terms.
8. How do I make a claim if something is damaged?
Ask for the specific claims process — timeframes, documentation required, and who handles claims. Firms that make this process unclear may be harder to deal with if something goes wrong.
9. Can I purchase additional all-risk cover for high-value items?
Especially important for antiques, artwork, pianos, and electronics. Some firms offer enhanced cover; others require you to arrange this through your own home insurer.
10. Are you a member of the BAR or RHA?
BAR (British Association of Removers) membership provides financial protection (advance payment guarantee) and access to an independent dispute resolution service. Always verify membership at bar.co.uk.
11. How long have you been in business?
Longevity isn't everything, but it's a useful indicator of reliability. Also check Companies House and Trustpilot/Google reviews for independent verification.
12. Will you subcontract my move to another firm?
Some removal companies act as brokers and subcontract moves. This can be fine, but you should know in advance — and check that the subcontractor carries adequate insurance and has your agreed price confirmed in writing.
13. What time will your team arrive?
Typical start times are 8am–9am. Knowing the arrival time allows you to plan the morning — especially if you need to be out of the old property by a specific time.
14. How many crew members will come?
Ensure enough people are allocated for the move — especially if you have lots of stairs, a large property, or heavy items. Too few crew members means a much longer moving day.
15. What happens if completion is delayed?
Completion delays are very common in property chains. Ask what the policy is — will the team wait? Is storage available? Is there an hourly waiting charge? Get this in writing before signing any contract.
16. What if something is damaged during the move?
Understand the process: report damage at the time, photograph it, complete an inventory, and submit a claim within the required timeframe. Knowing this in advance avoids complications later.
17. Do you do a final walkthrough at the old property?
Reputable companies do a final check of all rooms, loft, shed, and garage before leaving to ensure nothing is left behind. Confirm this is part of their standard process.
18. Can you supply packing materials?
Ask for a packing materials price list — boxes, tape, bubble wrap, wardrobe boxes. Compare this to buying your own; sometimes it's better value to buy independently.
19. Can you move my piano / large artwork / antiques?
Not all removal companies have specialist equipment for pianos or the expertise for fine art. If you have such items, ask explicitly and get confirmation that they carry appropriate specialist insurance.
20. What items can't you move?
Standard exclusions include: flammable liquids, gas canisters, live plants, pets, cash and jewellery, perishable food, and certain batteries. Know what you need to transport yourself.
21. Will you disconnect and reconnect appliances?
Most removal firms will not disconnect gas appliances or plumbing. Ask specifically about washing machines, dishwashers, and fridge-freezers — and arrange a plumber if needed.
22. Do you offer storage if I need it?
If there's a gap between your move-out and move-in dates, ask about short-term storage options. Get pricing for 1 week, 2 weeks, and a month so you can budget if completion is delayed.
☐ 1. Fixed or variable quote?
☐ 14. How many crew?
☐ 2. What's included?
☐ 15. Completion delay policy?
☐ 3. Potential extras?
☐ 16. Damage process?
☐ 4. VAT included?
☐ 17. Final walkthrough?
☐ 5. Friday premium?
☐ 18. Packing materials supplied?
☐ 6. Insurance level?
☐ 19. Specialist items covered?
☐ 7. Self-packed boxes covered?
☐ 20. Prohibited items?
☐ 8. Claims process?
☐ 21. Appliance disconnection?
☐ 9. Extra high-value cover?
☐ 22. Storage available?
☐ 10. BAR/RHA member?
☐ 23. ULEZ/congestion charge?
☐ 11. Years in business?
☐ 24. Parking suspension help?
☐ 12. Subcontracted?
☐ 25. Payment terms & deposit?
☐ 13. Arrival time?