How to Choose a Removalist to Move your Home or Office.

Most people seeking removal services have a hard time choosing a removalist. This excerpt provides a detailed guide on how to select a removalist. 

Experience

Most removalists will state that they are experienced in conducting removals. However, it is up to you to evaluate the truth in this statement. An experienced removalist should have removal equipment such as furniture dollies, trolleys, lifting straps, door stops, hydraulic lifts, and furniture straps. This equipment makes the removals process easy and also protects your items from getting damaged. Besides, they also reduce the risk of personal injury. The removalist should also have a team of highly trained professionals to conduct the removals. 

Professionalism

Preferably, hire a removalist that is affiliated to a professional body. Such removalists observe a strict customer relations code. If the removalist is involved in professional misconduct during your interaction, you can seek recourse from the professional body. The removalist should also have an in-depth understanding of the removals process. He or she should present a removals plan that details how you will prepare and execute the removals. Some of the details of this plan include: 

• A house visit to determine the equipment and personnel required to complete the removals. The removalist will also evaluate access areas and the best parking location.
• The removalist should tell you how to prepare for removals. For instance, you should defrost the refrigerator and dry the washing and dishwashing machines.
• For long distance removals, the removalist will inform you of the best route to take to avoid traffic jams and poor weather.
• For inter-country removals, the removalist will inform you of any permits that you require.
• If you require storage facilities, the removalist will look for a suitable storage facility and organise transport to ensure your items are dropped at the facility. 

Terms and conditions 

Inquire about the following: 

• How much deposit is required?
• What is the removalist's cancellation policy?
• Does the removalist have removals insurance? What does it cover?
• What extra charges are you likely to incur? Some companies will charge more during weekends and holidays.
• What happens in case of delays?
• What items are restricted? (Some companies may ask you to carry expensive jewellery)

Extra services 

Extra services such as the provision of packing boxes and storage facilities can significantly ease the removals process. Besides, the removalist should also unpack and arrange your items in the new premises. 

When looking for a removalist, evaluate his or her level of experience and professionalism. The removalist should also have favourable terms and conditions and a range of extra services.