Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Removalist
Hiring a removalist is a big step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free move. However, there are common mistakes that people make during this process. Here are some key ones to avoid:
1. Not Doing Enough Research
- Why It’s a Mistake: Many people hire the first removalist they find without researching the company’s reputation, services, and reliability.
- How to Avoid: Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and check if the company is accredited (e.g., members of the Australian Furniture Removers Association). Compare different companies to find the one that best suits your needs.
2. Choosing Based on Price Alone
- Why It’s a Mistake: The cheapest option is not always the best. Some companies might cut corners on service or have hidden fees.
- How to Avoid: Look for a balance between cost and quality. Get quotes from multiple companies and evaluate what’s included in the price (e.g., packing, insurance, fuel costs).
3. Not Checking Insurance Coverage
- Why It’s a Mistake: Accidents can happen during a move, and if your items aren’t insured, you may be left to cover the cost of damage or loss.
- How to Avoid: Ensure that the removalist provides adequate insurance for your belongings. Consider purchasing additional insurance for valuable or fragile items if needed.
4. Not Getting a Detailed Written Quote
- Why It’s a Mistake: Verbal agreements or rough estimates can lead to misunderstandings about what’s included in the service and extra fees may surprise you.
- How to Avoid: Always request a detailed written quote that includes all services, fees, and potential extras (e.g., charges for stairs, long carrying distances, etc.).
5. Booking Too Late
- Why It’s a Mistake: Last-minute bookings may leave you with fewer options, higher prices, or less reliable service.
- How to Avoid: Book your removalist well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons (e.g., end of month, holidays).
6. Not Decluttering Before the Move
- Why It’s a Mistake: Moving unnecessary items increases costs, time, and effort.
- How to Avoid: Take the time to declutter before your move. Donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need, so you only pay to move what’s truly necessary.
7. Not Asking About Hidden Fees
- Why It’s a Mistake: Some removalists may not include certain fees in the initial quote, such as charges for heavy items, packing materials, or additional labor.
- How to Avoid: Ask about all potential extra charges upfront, such as costs for difficult access, multiple flights of stairs, or specific packing needs.
8. Overlooking the Fine Print in Contracts
- Why It’s a Mistake: Failing to understand the terms of service can lead to confusion about liability, payment terms, and cancellation policies.
- How to Avoid: Carefully read the contract before signing. Pay attention to cancellation policies, insurance details, and terms regarding damages or delays.
9. Not Considering Parking and Access Issues
- Why It’s a Mistake: On moving day, if the truck can’t park close to your home, this could lead to delays or extra charges.
- How to Avoid: Ensure there’s adequate parking for the removalist’s truck. If necessary, arrange parking permits or inform the company of any access issues in advance.
10. Failing to Confirm Moving Dates and Times
- Why It’s a Mistake: Miscommunication about the moving date or time could leave you stranded or force you to pay additional fees.
- How to Avoid: Double-check and confirm all details about the moving date, time, and arrival schedule with the removalist before the moving day.
11. Not Preparing Items for the Move
- Why It’s a Mistake: Leaving things unprepared (e.g., furniture not disassembled, fragile items not packed) may slow down the move or increase the risk of damage.
- How to Avoid: Ensure items are properly packed and prepared before the movers arrive. Label boxes clearly and inform the removalists of any special handling requirements.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to hire a removalist who is professional, reliable, and suited to your moving needs, making the entire process much smoother.