Obtaining a quotation

First of all, in the quite complex business of moving house, you want everything to require as little brain power on your part as possible. When it comes to booking a removals firm, they should come out and survey your items for free, provide you with a no-obligation quote, and provide you with a no-obligation quote, together with their terms of business and contract on headed paper with company registration and VAT numbers.

Well-maintained vehicles

Reputable removals companies will have a vehicle upkeep policy, to make sure their fleet is in tip-top condition to reduce the chance of ill-timed breakdown incidents. This also includes compliance with UK transport laws, which includes things like the weight limit of vehicles.

Branded vehicles

Companies proudly advertising their name and branding on the side of their vans, are more likely to be good to do business with, as they’re happy to have a public reputation, as opposed to hiding behind the anonymity of an unbranded white van. 

Well-trained staff

One question to ask when obtaining a quote from a removals firm is how long they’ve been trading, how long their staff have been working there, and what training they’ve undertaken. Legitimate companies won’t mind the question (and will probably quite enjoy telling you about their level of experience) while others might clam up, or try and change the subject.

Correct procedures for heavy handling of furniture

This goes hand in hand with well-trained staff, but awkward and heavy furniture won’t be a problem at all to reputable companies. Where appropriate, they’ll even be able to dismantle furniture before loading, and then rebuild it in its new location.

Confirmation of quote to include VAT & registered company number as well as trademarks

If you’re looking for a reputable removals company rather than a man with a van, you’ll be able to find this information on the written confirmation of your quote. Hiring a removals company is a big commitment both financially and in the trust you’re placing in your movers – so there’s absolutely no harm in using these details to look them up online to find company information.

Companies from comparison sites or online marketplaces

One thing to look out for, especially if you’re trying to find a reputable removals company online, is the rise of removals marketplace sites. 

What do we mean by this?

Well, we’re one removals company, and if you contact us via our website to book our services then you’ll be booking Pitmans Removals to turn up. However, there are some websites that are purposefully designed to look like one company, but in fact, when you book via them, they contract the work out to other providers. This is where the branded vehicles come in – you’ll know exactly who you’re getting! A well-known marketplace provider was on BBC Watchdog recently for ripping people off, and not fulfilling their promises. 

Filling in online quote forms from removals comparison sites also are rarely accurate, as there are so many different variables that go into putting together a professional quote. Our job is so varied, that we would actually say it’s impossible to provide a quote without seeing the items for moving, and asking all of the right questions.

There has been a rise in this sort of service since the pandemic, due to the stamp duty holiday as well as lockdown inspiring people to move into homes with more outdoor space. If you can, please make sure you book your removals company ASAP to avoid needing to rely on a service you can’t guarantee will be great.

If you’re looking for a reputable removals firm in the South West of England, our HQ is in Blandford Forum, Dorset – but we cover the whole of the UK. We’ve been in the removals business for over 30 years, and there’s nothing we like better than helping our customers move smoothly from A to B. Get in touch to arrange a quote, or visit our Blandford depot, and come and see us personally!