Looking for an accurate Removals Quote? Look no further!
Moving home is a significant investment. With the cost of relocating having risen sharply over the last decade, ensuring you receive a clear, comprehensive, and accurate removals quote has never been more important. A vague estimate can lead to unexpected charges and stress on moving day, which is the last thing anyone needs.
At Barnes of Lincoln, we’ve been providing transparent and honest removal quotes for over a century. We believe an informed customer is a confident customer. This guide will walk you through the entire process, explaining what to expect from a home survey and what to look for in a quote to ensure there are no hidden surprises.
1. The Key to Accuracy: The Home Survey
The foundation of any accurate quote is a thorough home survey. This is where a professional Move Consultant assesses everything you intend to move. The primary factor determining the cost is the ‘volume of effects’ (the total space your belongings will occupy in our vehicles), but distance and extra services also play a role.
To ensure accuracy, it’s vital that you show the surveyor everything.
- Check all rooms: Include attics, basements, garages, and sheds.
- Point out hidden items: Don’t forget the contents of cupboards, wardrobes, and drawers.
- Mention outdoor items: Include garden furniture, pot plants, and children’s play equipment.
If an item isn’t included in the survey, it won’t be in the quote. This can lead to extra charges or mean the team arrives without the space or equipment to move it on the day.
Expert Tip: “People often forget about the contents of their loft or shed. Before your survey, make a quick list of items in these ‘out of sight’ areas to ensure nothing is missed. It’s the single biggest cause of inaccurate quotes.”
2. Be Prepared: What to Expect During the Survey
The survey is a two-way conversation. Our Move Consultant will need to understand the specifics of your move, and it’s your opportunity to ask questions. Be ready to discuss:
- Your ideal moving date: Are you flexible, or is it a fixed completion date?
- Access details: Are there any parking restrictions or difficult access points at either your current or new property?
- Your timeline: What time do you need to be out of your current home?
- Items you’re moving yourself: Be clear about anything you plan to transport personally.
This is your chance to get a feel for the company. A professional surveyor should be knowledgeable, thorough, and happy to answer all your questions.
3. Beyond the Basics: Discussing Extra Services
A standard removal is just one part of the process. A truly comprehensive quote will account for any additional services you might require. Consider if you’ll need:
- Professional Packing Services: A full or partial packing service can be a lifesaver, ensuring your items are safe and saving you weeks of effort.
- Dismantling & Reassembly: For items like beds, wardrobes, and trampolines.
- Specialist Items: Pianos, antiques, or valuable artwork require special handling and sometimes custom-built crates.
- Secure Storage Solutions: If you’re downsizing or there’s a delay between moving out and in, we offer secure, containerised storage, often at more competitive rates than self-storage units.
4. Understanding Your Insurance Cover
Reputable removal companies, especially BAR Members like Barnes of Lincoln, will have ‘Goods in Transit’ insurance as standard. However, the level of cover can vary. It’s essential to ask:
- What is the standard level of insurance included in the quote?
- Is there an option to purchase enhanced cover for high-value items?
Clarifying this during the survey ensures you have complete peace of mind and understand your rights in the unlikely event of damage.
5. How to Compare Removals Quotes Correctly
It’s wise to get 2-3 quotes, but it’s crucial to compare them like-for-like. The cheapest quote is rarely the best value. Look closely at what is included:
- Are packing materials included?
- Is VAT included in the final price?
- Are potential costs like waiting time waivers or parking permits mentioned?
- Is the company a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR)?
A professional quote from a company like Barnes of Lincoln will be a detailed document outlining every service and its associated cost, leaving no room for ambiguity.
Get a Transparent, No-Obligation Removals Quote from Barnes of Lincoln
When you’re ready, our team is here to provide a clear and detailed quote tailored to your exact needs. We can arrange a visit to your home or conduct a convenient virtual video survey at a time that suits you.
We will create a full solution for your timeline and budget, and our experienced team can manage as much or as little of the process as you wish. Once we have the full details, we will send you a comprehensive written quote. If you’re happy, we’ll provide a full schedule to ensure a smooth and stress-free move.
