At some point in life, we all have to face the tedious task of moving house: moving into your first flat, changing address, and so on. Sometimes there are so few boxes to move —or so we think— that we decide to carry them ourselves.
Yet those who have been through it strongly recommend hiring a removals company, because, among other things, they are professionals who know how to move furniture and belongings so nothing is put at risk.
Even so, the fear of entrusting our prized possessions to someone else grows when we hear about other people’s bad experiences, where items didn’t arrive in the best condition.
The key to avoiding this is knowing how to choose the right removals company; but how? We’ll give you the answers.
What to keep in mind
The market is full of companies that offer to take our furniture and belongings wherever we tell them, assuring us they’ll do it with every guarantee.
Still, on rare occasions they fall short. To make sure it doesn’t happen to you, here’s what to keep in mind when choosing a removals company:
Ask for several quotes
The only way to choose well is to compare several options. Don’t settle for the first one you find just because it’s the cheapest.
There are many rogue operators in the sector, and the best way to avoid them is to steer clear of bargains and be wary of quotes given over the phone without a prior visit. It’s best to plan ahead, request quotes from several companies well in advance, and take your time before deciding on one.
Check the prices of at least 3 companies that offer guarantees, such as belonging to a recognised trade association. Also make sure the quote covers points like the move’s destination, the type of belongings, the mode of transport and the dates, among other things.
Ask about possible extra charges
Nobody likes surprises on moving day, so it’s worth making sure you ask about any extra charges, based on the services you’ve requested, that could be added to the final bill. If you’re dealing with experts, they’ll always make the terms of each service clear, so there are no surprises.
Consider packing services
Most people dread the idea of packing all their belongings, especially when there are special items we don’t know how to protect properly. Look for a local removals company that offers packing services: this choice can really take the stress out of a move.
Consider a storage service
The dates for leaving and arriving at the new place don’t always line up exactly, nor do they always suit our move-in needs.
In those cases, we can consider a storage service that keeps our belongings safe and protected for as long as we need, until they can be unpacked in the new home.
Check the company has the right vehicles
This is a decisive factor, because it’s the company that should have vehicles suited to our move, not the other way round. It’s also essential to know whether they have specialist equipment such as pulleys and hoists (for example, to move a sofa).
Experience counts
While it may be tempting to hire a removals company offering very low prices, let’s not forget we’re talking about entrusting our belongings to other people.
That’s why it’s essential to find a professional removals company with the experience needed to do the job properly. The quality-to-cost ratio is key here.
Check the company can adapt to different schedules
A professional removals company will know how to fit in with our needs without our own time having to pay the price.
Look for a close, personal touch
This is added value that’s always worth considering. Good communication is key, and it’s far easier with people who can understand us and reach agreements.
At Mudanzas Trallero we offer clear quotes with no surprises and a personal touch in Barcelona and Madrid. Get in touch and ask us for a no-obligation quote.
