Whether you’ve moved multiple times in your life or are planning for your very first relocation, you likely know (or are quickly learning) that choosing the right removalist is a big deal. Make the right choice and your move goes off like a dream. Make the wrong one and it can quickly turn into a nightmare.
But it only takes a quick internet search to find that your area is likely inundated with removalists, many of whom make incredible promises on the service they will provide for what seems to be an impossibly low price.
So how can you possibly know which removalist is right for you?
As one of Sydney’s most trusted removal companies, we know how important it is to choose the right moving team. That’s why we’ve gathered this list with 4 ways you can compare moving companies and choose the team that’s best for you.
Before you can compare…
You should plan to get customised quotes from a minimum of 3 removalists (and make sure they come to your home and physically walk through your space before crafting the quote). Once you have those in hand, you can make the following comparisons:
1. Compare Price
No surprise here as price is often at the top of every homeowner’s list. And it is wise to go into the comparison game with a firm budget in mind because there are plenty of convenience services that can be added to your quote, driving up the cost of your move. It’s also important to remember that rates vary dramatically depending on whether you’re making a local or interstate move.
Another tip: be sure your quotes include the cost of moving any specialty items like pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, and any other unusual pieces in your home.
You should also be wary of any company that requires you to leave a deposit or refuses to accept credit card payments.
And keep in mind the company with the cheapest quote shouldn’t necessarily be the one that gets your business. If a company gives you a quote that is wildly cheaper than the others, that may be a red flag that the quote is too good to be true.
2. Compare Accreditation/Insurance Information
When making this comparison, people often learn why some of those bargain-priced removalists have prices that are so much lower than their competitors. That’s why it’s so important to compare insurance and accreditation information when choosing the right movers for you.
As you compare removal companies, find out if they are members of the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA). AFRA accreditation is optional, and they don’t approve just anyone. Companies bearing the AFRA seal of approval have undergone a rigorous vetting process and have been found to uphold the highest safety standards in the industry. AFRA members are also required to carry liability insurance for the protection of their employees and customers.
If you have quotes from removalists who are not AFRA accredited, ask them what insurance they carry and factor their answer into your decision.
3. Compare Reviews
Pricing and accreditation won’t matter much if you’re working with a company that makes its clients unhappy. One of the best ways to predict your experience with a removal company is by reading the reviews from clients who have already used their services.
It never hurts to ask moving companies for referrals, but you should also read public reviews on Google and on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Customers are often most vocal when they are either supremely satisfied or deeply disappointed, so taking time to read customer reviews should give you a good idea as to what former customers experienced.
4. Compare Personal Interactions
As you compare information, think about your personal experience with each removalist. Were they easy to get in touch with? If you had to leave a message, were they quick to reply or did you have to hunt them down? Were they happy to provide you with information regarding their accreditation/insurance or did they beat around the proverbial bush?
Your gut is a keen judge of character and, while instincts shouldn’t be the only criteria for choosing a moving company, they certainly should play a role in the decision you make.
And so…
Moving is a big deal and the companies you’re considering should see it as such. If you have a move in your future and are looking for reputable removalists who will treat your belongings like their own, we hope you’ll contact us at Holloway Removals. Our team is AFRA accredited and fully prepared to create for you a custom quote full of everything you need and nothing you don’t. Our goal is to get you into your home as efficiently and safely as possible.
Make your next move the right way…with Holloway.
