Moving Home Can be Easy

Posted on 24/07/2010

Here at Clear Lets we’re well aware that when it comes to top stress-inducing situations, moving home is right up there with the best of them.

So how can you make the whole experience much easier for yourself? Well, firstly you can get a removal firm that knows what it's doing. Forget the cowboys, when it comes to your beloved possessions you want someone you can trust.

First off, plan well in advance. That means start ringing round and getting quotes from removal firms several months in advance of your actual move. Consider price and timescale involved (most removal companies will send someone to your home to assess and give you an accurate costs). Also look at the kind of service the company is offering ie does it include packing?

Take into consideration when you are planning to move. If it's during the school holidays or at the weekend then the cost is going to be far higher. It's also going to be more difficult to book a company during these popular periods.

Avoid the dodgy firms by ensuring any removal firm you do contact is recognised by either The British Association of Removers or The National Guild of Removers and Storers. Members for both these organisations are governed by a strict code of conduct.

Maybe you're confident you can do the whole lot on your own. After all, you've managed to pack all the boxes yourself. Don’t be fooled. Remember, you're not just going to have to unpack them but in many cases, cart them up from the van to your new home and probably several flights of stairs too. This can be physically draining, especially if you're on a tight moving schedule.

To make your move quicker and for the sake of convenience for the removal company, provide a layout of the new property if possible ie the width of the doors for getting bulky items through, the number of stairs and parking possibilities etc.

Insure against the move but check your home contents insurance first as you may already be covered. Knowing you’re insured will make you feel more relaxed and, more importantly, you won't be out of pocket if, horror of horrors, that valuable antique vase and family heirloom ends up smashed to smithereens at the foot of the stairs.

The best way to choose a removals firm is by word of mouth ie a friend or family recommendation. If this isn't possible then go with your gut instinct.

For tips on choosing a removal firm contact Clear staff at any of our offices.