Braithwaites Removals are your number one Removals company in Blackpool In this weeks blog we go into details why we feel hiring a removal company really is a no brainer.
Keep it movin’! Nothing in life is permanent, but while change can be stressful, it is often a good thing, a step forward. Whatever your next destination, a removal company is a worthwhile investment and can take a massive weight off your shoulders, particularly if you value your priceless paintings or your vintage furniture collection.
An experienced removal company holds the tools and skills required to securely transfer your stuff from A to B in one piece, with no damage, no headaches, and no fuss. Not only that, but many companies are even willing to aid you in neatly packing your things away before moving them to a specified location.
In this guide, we will walk you through exactly what removals companies are all about and why you should hire one for your next big move!
What do we do and why do we do it?
We’ve been in this business for years and have undertaken all types of removal jobs from a variety of properties. We are specialists in secure packaging, lifting, and moving objects – it is a balance of brains and brawn, as well as having the right tools for the job.
We operate with an acute understanding of positioning and manoeuvrability, all while maximising efficiency and minimising potential risks and damage to your belongings.
Leave it to us or do it yourself?
The biggest appeal of working with a removal company is that we do all the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to concern yourself with the labour and can focus on the more personal aspects of the move.
If you are someone with a business to run or a hectic family life and children to look after, we free up your time and allow you to cater to your priorities, instead of straining your back trying to move furniture around. Leave it to us!
However, if do decide to go down the DIY route for your move, remember to insure your precious items just in case they do get irreparably damaged or lost.
Which company is right for you?
We would advise you to not jump the gun on this one. Do not rush in picking a removal company. Do an adequate amount of research before making any payments and try to get quotes from a few different places.
When getting quoted, inform the companies of what they can expect to deal with – narrow doorways, stairways, elevator access – as these things will impact the efficiency of the move (as well as the price). Once you receive an estimate, you can ask to have it broken down and see how the costs add up, including factors such as mileage, insurance and packing.
How much will it cost?
Of course, no two moves are alike, as each one comes with unique challenges and will demand adaptability. But you may consider general factors, such as the distance of the property to which you’re moving, the number of goods that need transporting, and how fast your need to complete the move.
Since we’re generalising, here are some basic industry estimates:
- £400 to move from a one-bedroom property
- £1,000 to move from a four-bedroom property
- £150-£400 additional charge if you need help packing
To make sure that things flow smoothly from A to B, any removal company will appreciate a thorough briefing sheet, so they know as much as possible about the job ahead of time.
A briefing sheet should include:
- A list of things that need special packing
- A list of expensive and fragile items that demand more consideration
- Sizeable furniture that may require dismantling
- If possible, a floor plan of both new and old properties
Big removal company vs. local business
Some moves are not easy to make, others are a downright nightmare. Fortunately, you have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to hiring a team of capable hands that are ready to help you.
First of all, whether you’re considering hiring a local firm or one that works around the country, it is wise to first do some digging about them. An established firm should be a member of the British Association of Removers with a proven track record. It would also be good to know how long the company has been operating and what kind of reviews they have garnered in that time.
If you’re making a big cross-country move, a company that operates nationally would likely serve you better and be cheaper. But if you’re just moving to a new house on the other side of town, a local firm would be more efficient.
Be it local or national, a competent firm will aim to provide you with a service that is professional and well-planned.
Why not just hire a man with a van instead?
It may well be that you do not need a removal company at all for your move, particularly if there aren’t a lot of things to move and if the two properties are not far from each other. Perhaps asking friends and family for help is enough, but you also have the option of hiring a van (which usually comes with a man ready to lend a hand).
Of course, a professional removal company is a more secure option and can save you a lot of time, as well as help you pack thoroughly and unload your fragile and precious items without a scratch. Unlike the man with a van, a removal firm is there to assist you every step of the way.
Furthermore, another essential benefit of hiring a removal company is peace of mind. Were some unforeseen issues to arise during the move, you could rest assured that there is a team of professionals working to resolve them.
What about insurance?
Prior to hiring a removal company, ask them: “Are you fully insured?” Most removal companies should be covered by insurance to protect your belongings and their business. However, most companies tend to only cover damage costs of around £50. If you’re transferring valuable items, it would be best to get them valued and, possibly, insured as extra cover. Braithwaites offer a new for old insurance policy, meaning you know 100% your items are fully covered through every step of your move.
More Options
Another benefit of hiring movers is the variety of options available for your own preferences. Since every move is unique, there might be some specific things that you need for your moving day.
With a good removal company, expect that your needs will be met without an issue. All you have to do is tell your chosen company about your requirements as early as possible, and if there are some changes, let them know immediately.
Asking the right questions
“What van and lorry sizes are available?”
You want your move to be executed without a hitch, taking comfort in the knowledge that the people you hired are equipped to transport all of your items in one piece.
However, there are more factors you should consider:
- Do you intend on transporting any bulky and long items – furniture, pianos, beds, or things that are otherwise oddly shaped?
- What are the limitations of the streets that would need to be traversed – any obstructions, frequent and severe traffic, closed roads, etc.?
- Does the company have vehicles that are appropriate for reaching your destination?
The majority of moving companies operate a small fleet of vans and lorries, so it’s fair to assume that you will have some options. That being said, it’s still best to specify your requirements in regards to the packing and moving of specific items, overall volume, and any odd streets before requesting this or that type of vehicle.
“Are there any items that you refuse to transport?”
This is an important inquiry, for obvious reasons. Make sure you raise this question before booking a company, as they will know that there are some items that they just won’t or can’t move. Such items are typically not aligned with the health and safety regulations or because they are regarded as “dangerous goods”.
Items may include but are not limited to corrosive acids, flammable substances, or animals and pets. It could even be something relatively safe, like house plants, which can die in long-distance van rides and require particularly delicate packing and securing so they don’t tip or spill or snap. In some cases, it’s actually illegal to move your plant long-distance, since they are a vehicle for localised pests.
This is important and something that must be understood in order to keep you and the team safe on your moving day. Dangerous good and typically corrosive, flammable, or explosive. Such things may include poisonous substances, radioactive materials and compressed gasses.
We will go through a list, and if you spot any of the items, then you may have to take it upon yourself to get them moved. Safety is our number one priority. If you stumble upon some forgotten fireworks from the last bonfire night, please remember to cautiously dispose of them yourself.
The following list will include some common household items that you may not even have thought of. It’s worth taking notes so that you don’t have to rummage around last-minute to repack things.
Some prohibited items are:
- Petrol
- Motor oil
- Lighter fluid
- Propane cylinders
- Matches
- Fire extinguisher
- Firearms and ammunition
- Fireworks
- Aerosols
- Paints and paint thinner
- Nail polish
- Oxygen bottles
- Cleaning solvents
- Liquid bleach
- Radio-pharmaceuticals
We advise you to get busy and thoroughly research which items should be disposed of and which you would be better off bringing to your new home yourself. It would help to look up the labels of chemical bottles for a safe guide on how to dispose of or transport them. If you are lost and need help, contact your removal company for assistance.
“Tell me about insurance again…?”
Well, even if you’ve hired the best moving company in the world, accidents happen. So your best best is to play safe. In the event that something goes wrong in the moving process, it would be best to be protected against any damages to your possessions.
Removal insurance is the industry standard these days, most companies offer it in some form or other. But some insurance policies can be quite strict and refuse to cover certain items, while the more established removal businesses will charge you extra for different types of coverage.
To put it bluntly, you need to settle things on paper first. Be honest and clear about what you want to transport and if those items are, or should be, insured.
“Can your team help me pack my things?”
There are companies that will help you with your move every step of the way. If you require packing materials – packing tape, cardboard boxes, etc. – then you should communicate your needs to the company as soon as possible. It is rather common for companies to refuse to take part in that part of the moving process.
So if this is something that could be an issue for you – if you don’t have the time, patience, or would simply rather avoid the pain of purchasing materials and doing the boxing – it is crucial that you raise these questions early on and find out what the company offers when it comes to packing support and materials.
“What does your quote consist of?”
You need to ask this question early to avoid a monetary slap in the face (we all know how much those can hurt). So don’t get caught off guard! Make sure you are clear on what the removal company offers in their service – and what will accrue additional fees.
Further on this topic: Ask questions regarding.
- Surcharges for specific bulky items
- Extra costs for late-hour services
- Fuel costs, parking, permits, etc.
- Dismantling/assembling furniture
“Do you offer any other services?”
Those companies who want to say ahead in this competitive marketplace have realised that customer service comes first. As such, many companies now offer additional services, such as:
- Quick and secure packing
Stuffing all of your possessions into boxes and bubble wrap can be a hellish task. But having a team of experts do it for you takes away the stress of this necessary part of the move, as well as reduces the likelihood of anything getting damaged while in transit.
- Packing materials
Packing is hell, yes, but finding the right materials to pack is just as annoying. If your removal company offers packing as a service, they will show up with a good amount of boxes of propionate size to fit all of your things in.
- Storage
Some removal companies can provide storage for your things if you’re downsizing. They will have your items indexed, packaged, and neatly sorted, ready for you whenever you’re prepared to take the next step.
- Cleaning services
This can be helpful for leaving your old property sparkling clean for the next tenants, though it isn’t always an option with some removal companies. But if they do offer this as a service, that only makes things smoother and more convenient for you.
“When do I pay?”
As is the norm in most industries, removal companies will most likely request an upfront deposit or even full payment.
Of course, when it comes to money, it’s best to raise this question before you book them. The timing and terms of payment will undoubtedly differ between companies.
“What are your terms of cancellation?”
Life can get messy when moving to a new house, and things may just fall apart at the last moment. Sales, purchase days, handovers – all can impact and derail your move in unexpected ways. So what happens when your plans do change? Are there any fees that a removal company can charge you?
As with most things on this list, it depends on the company and the only way to know is to ask them directly before agreeing on anything. This information will undoubtedly be listed in their Terms & Conditions, though it wouldn’t hurt just to call or email them.
Key takeaways.
- Remember to ask your removal company the important questions before agreeing to anything
- Ask about cancellation policies, payment, and insurance cover
- Confirm exactly what is included in your quote
- Find out what items they can and can’t transport
- Confirm that they have vehicles large enough for your items
- Inquire about additional services they may offer which might make your move easier
The most important thing to remember is: If not sure, pick up the phone and ask.
There are many removal businesses out there and, while they are in the same industry, each company has its own way of doing things. Before you do anything, communicate your needs and ask the right questions.
Why choose Braithwaite’s as your removal company?
So now you know that you have an array of choices when it comes to selecting a moving company that is right for you.
If you found this article helpful, you may also want to know that there are many more ways we can be of use. Keep reading to find out why Braithwaite’s is the right company to help you with your big move!
We have collected great reviews for our services
Upon completion of each job, we ask our customers to share their experience, and if they would consider recommending us in the future. We are pleased to confirm that the vast majority of our clients gave us 5-star reviews on Google and Facebook.
You can read their testimonials on our homepage on Google right here.
Knowledgeable, experienced, dedicated
We have a great team of capable professionals ready to help with the key aspects of your move. We are here to ensure that everything flows according to plan and in alignment with your specific preferences.
Braithwaite is patient and committed to listening and understanding your individual needs. Whatever challenges or worries you are facing as a result of your move, we can help you overcome them and come up with the best game plan to take the right steps forward.
We provide services to support you
Along with our capacity to load and unload in and out of homes and offices, we also provide packing and storage services.
We have a range of different packing services for you to choose from. Below is a list of the most popular with our customers:
- Full packing content
- Breakable packing
- Fragile item packing
- Part packing
- Unpacking
When it comes to storage facilities, we have a set of fully secure 20ft shipping containers near Blackpool in Weeton Village, Lancashire.
From only £140 per month, we store your goods in our clean, purpose-built storage containers. We take great care to keep your items in a way that will preserve their value, and we vow to deliver them back to you in the same condition.
Conclusion
When moving to a new location, you will undoubtedly need additional time to tackle the many tasks that come your way, from moving your belongings to packing. But with our assistance (or that of any other reputable removal company), you can set aside your worries and rest easy knowing that everything is in capable hands. Your belongings are safe and they will arrive in one piece.
If you just do not fancy dealing with the hassle of your next move and would rather opt in for peace of mind, give your local removal company a call.
If you are looking for a strong, reliable team of Preston Movers, give us a call today.
