Choosing the right removal company
It’s no secret, there are dozens of removal companies in operation in Yorkshire. However, in the months prior to your big move you may find yourself wondering how to select the moving company that’s right for you. Fortunately, we have already written about pitfalls to avoid in our article, 5 Signs NOT to Hire a Man & Van Firm. Be sure to check out those tips, you’ll definitely thank us later! We’ve also offered our top recommendations when comparing removal quotes. These guidelines apply to light removals, house removals, furniture removals, etc. Now, we further the discussion by sharing 5 key factors to consider when choosing a removal firm in Yorkshire.
Identify your budget
Having looked over your belongings and decided that neither your schedule nor the number of things in your possession afford you the option of a DIY move, it’s time to consider your budget. The reality is that, unless your finances indicate otherwise, you will most likely have to determine what you can realistically afford to pay a moving company before entering into a contractual agreement with them. When determining costs, removal companies primarily consider distance; amount of manpower required; and the number of items to be moved. However, depending on the company, they may also be willing to suggest cost-saving measures to ensure the move doesn’t break your bank. For good measure, we recommend factoring in a 10% contingency for any unforeseen incidental expenditure. Once your budget is determined, you will be able to filter out the removal firms that fall outside of your budget and focus on those within.
Read reviews
It is a good rule to thumb to check what former customers have said about the company. Unfortunately, nowadays we seem to live in a world that thrives on negativity, so some reviews may be overly critical. Our advice would be to take such reviews with a pinch of salt. Of course, please do not ignore a significant number of overwhelmingly negative feedback. Similarly, be aware of overwhelmingly positive feedback. This is also a red flag – the company has either paid customers to write positive reviews. Or they are removing their critical feedback. Like any relationship, it is essential to build on a foundation of trust. Balance is key, there is definitely some merit to devoting time to read both positive and not-so-flattering reviews. They will likely give insight into the moving company’s strengths and weaknesses. Thus helping you decide which is right for you.
Look for registered companies
Frankly, while York is a quaint city, it is not void of near-do-wells, looking to pull a fast one over the unsuspecting. So when choosing a removal firm, we highly recommend that you do your due diligence. The aim should be to find a reputable company. Ensure that the business has an active website, working phone numbers and/or email address. Even a verifiable physical address would be a good indicator. A registered company is insured and licensed. A company’s legal status ensures the safety of your belongings. It also ensures that you do not become the victim of fraudulent activity, theft or mishandling of your possessions. Of course, you certainly don’t need to have a degree in criminal investigation. A simple Google or Facebook search should reveal more than enough credible information about registered removal companies in Yorkshire.
Compare services
This should come as no surprise. As a budget-conscious consumer, you are already likely in the habit of shopping around. Whether it be for supermarket goods, internet and/or phone services, motor vehicles, real estate agents, etc., in these economic times many of us are searching out the options available to us before deciding where to spend our money. When it comes to removal firms, the same principle applies. It is best to compare the pricing and services of at least three companies before deciding on the one that is right for you. Fortunately, this does not involve calling around aimlessly or endlessly searching online. There are many third-party websites that allow you to compare quotations from several removal companies based on different criteria. So give it a go! Once you’ve found some removal firms that interest you, you can carry out steps two and three mentioned above.
Have a chat
Still very much a part of the selection process, we suggest making an appointment to have a face-to-face conversation about the company’s services and charges. If circumstances do not allow, at least schedule a call with a member of the team to discuss the particulars. You are about to enter into a short-term, binding agreement with a company. The degree of comfort you feel with their staff is important. Once you are convinced that you are dealing with professionals, who are at the same time personable and knowledgeable, and you have done the necessary research, trust your gut. Moving is naturally a high-stress situation, so having a good rapport with the persons that you are inviting into your old and new homes could mean a less stressful experience. At the end of the day, isn’t that what we all want?
We hope that these five simple suggestions will be useful in helping you choose a removal company that’s right for you. If you’re reading our blog, it means that you are likely looking for reliable, van removal services in the York area. With years of experience in removal services, a sterling reputation in York and hundreds of satisfied customers, we would be only too keen to help you with your move and ensure that the experience is as stress-free as possible. Contact us today for your free quote. We’ll be pleased to chat with you.
07931 849 112 | 01904 375 995 | Get your removals quote online | admin@vanmanyork.co.uk
