Professional removals companies will do all they can to make your move go as smoothly as possible. All AIM members use Terms & Conditions and a Code of Practice that try to cover every eventuality on the run up to, and the day of, your move. Further to this (and for added peace of mind) they will be happy to answer any questions you have with regard to your move, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Here are some key questions worth asking.
What if I don’t have a confirmed date to move?
At the time of quoting, the mover doesn’t necessarily need to know the exact date of your move but may offer a quote based on the move being on a normal working day. Although the quote might change if the date falls on a weekend or Bank Holiday, the price quoted is normally valid for a set period (usually 30 days).
Some movers allow customers to make provisional bookings and keep them informed on availability for that day. However, until the booking is confirmed there is no guarantee that they will be available.
If your date is not confirmed, it is always worth discussing options with your mover. The contract between the customer and the mover only comes into effect once the booking is confirmed, so as soon as you get confirmation you should tell your mover.
What are my options for insurance?
The insurance industry is highly regulated, so removals companies are subject to laws and regulations that limit what they can offer. Companies vary in what they can provide, but the most common is an extended liability to cover your goods. This basically means the mover can offer to have your goods covered by their own insurance while your goods are in their care.
It is worth considering that (to insurers) cartons/boxes that are packed by the owner are not viewed in the same way as those packed by professionals, so it’s worth considering a packing service, particularly for fragile items.
Under extended liability, your goods are covered to the replacement value or for the cost of repair. It will not be a new for old policy.
Alternatively, you may settle for limited liability cover which will only cover your goods up to a basic amount (usually £40) per item.
Your mover will be happy to discuss insurance options with you.
What happens if my move is cancelled?
Once a removal company has confirmed your booking it is highly unlikely that they will cancel. Movers have the option to sub-contract work to other professional movers, so even if unforeseen events prevent them from turning up, they can still fulfil the contract. If they do cancel, you are entitled to a full refund on any money paid.
If you have booked your move and circumstances have changed to prevent you from moving on the specified day, you may have to pay a cancellation fee as laid out in the mover’s Terms & Conditions.
Some movers offer a Cancellation/Postponement Waiver. As with the other questions, your mover will be happy to discuss this with you.
