Moving Tips
Some thoughts for you to consider ahead of, and then during your move. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions. We are always happy to help you plan moving day.
Moving Tips
Choosing a removal firm. Questions which will ensure you get the right removal package for you –
When should I look to book a free pre-move survey?
It’s never too early to consider removals once you have agreed to sell your property. Do not leave it until contracts have been exchanged. We are happy to provide a fixed price quote pending confirmation of your actual move date. Fridays are a particularly busy time for removal firms, so you may find you get better value quotes if you consider moving on a different day.
Will all of my furniture fit out of our current property and into our new one? Did we build any of our furniture in situ? Has subsequent building work changed access to the building (loft conversion/extension)?
We can work with you to agree if items need to be disassembled and reassembled. If you choose to do this yourself, remember to keep all screws and bolts safe. We are pleased to help with furniture disassembly and assembly as an additional service.
Am I downsizing? Will our new property suit our existing furniture? Will I still have access to a garden?
If there are items you no longer need then speak to us about our recycling and clearance service. We work closely with local furniture recycling projects to maximize reuse and minimise disposal. We can quote to take those items at the time of the move as opposed to you managing this yourself or with a clearance firm.
Do I want to pack myself or would I rather someone helps?
We are happy to move customer packed boxes, or to offer a full packing service at an inclusive cost including all packing materials. If you prefer, we can only pack certain items for you – i.e. precious ornaments, the kitchen contents or sideboard glasses…
If packing myself, where will I get boxes and packing materials?
These can be very expensive. Speak to us about our free box loan offer if you would like to avoid this cost. We also offer good quality double walled removal boxes to buy and keep together with a range of great value packing materials.
What insurance coverage should I expect?
All reputable removal firms will have goods in transit insurance. We offer a standard level of cover of £25,000 per vehicle. Insurance can be increased to up to £50,000 per vehicle at no additional charge by completing our insurance declaration form, giving our customers market leading protection. Consider checking to ensure the quotes you receive offer equivalent protection. We also have comprehensive public and employers liability insurance policies in place.
Who will actually move me on the day? What vehicles will they use?
We suggest you always ask about the team who will actually be moving you on the day. Does the firm use contract or temporary staff? What checks do they perform on those staff? At Westbourne Removals we only use modern purpose built larger removal vehicles giving space for your possessions rather than relying on smaller Luton vans. We do not use temporary or agency staff.
How will I be asked to pay for the service? Will I get a receipt?
If you are being asked to pay cash or by bank transfer, this is likely for the convenience of the removal firm, not you. While we accept payment by bank transfer and cash, we also accept payment online and in person with all major debit and credit cards and PayPal. We will always provide you with a receipt.
Would a fixed price move or an hourly man and van rate give me the best value?
For larger moves, a full fixed price is invariably the best option, but for smaller projects please speak to us about our rates for man, or two man & van services.
Parking & Access
- Our quote will be based on agreed access to both properties. If we have quoted based on good access and this turns out not to be the case then this may result in an adjustment to the quoted price.
- Please consider how the removal vans will park at or near your property. If you have designated parking, please agree with neighbours where the vans can park.
- If there is no off road parking, then a space 3 car lengths long being free will ensure a smooth move.
Packing Tips
- Its often best to pack a room at a time. Label each box with its contents and where you would like us to place it in your new home.
- Its advisable to use good quality double walled cardboard boxes and tapes. These are designed for moving and storage and will protect your precious items. We have a range available to borrow, or buy and keep.
- Please do not overload boxes. Use small boxes for DVDs, books, china, glassware and other heavy items. Larger boxes should be used for lighter items only.
- You can best protect fragile items with specialist wrapping paper and bubble wrap. Again, we can provide these if needed.
- There is no need to pack up drawer contents. We can load these separately for you.
- When packing plants, we are happy for these to be left in open top boxes. We will pack them last and put them into your new home first to minimise impact.
- Unless we have agreed otherwise ahead of the move, please ensure items in the loft have been brought down into the house.
White Goods
- Unless agreed otherwise we ask that all white goods be unplugged / unplumbed ready for the move. We recommend you seek professional advice regarding gas and electric cookers.
- Refrigeration with open shelves can be packed at the last minute with items stored in cool bags. While we advise running down stocks, freezer compartments with basket storage can usually be left as is, dependent on weight of the unit. If unsure we can agree the best approach with you ahead of the move.
At Your New Property
- Please ensure someone is available to direct where you would like your furniture and boxes placed.
- Labeling of boxes and on doors of each room will make this task easier.
- Fridges and freezers should not be turned back on until their gases have had a chance to settle for a few hours (ideally overnight).
- If using our box loan service, there is no rush to unpack. Take your time and call us when ready. We will then come and collect boxes and packing materials for reuse and recycling.
Get in Touch
Open Hours
6am - 9pm Everyday
Our Office
7 Branksome Hill Road
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH4 9LD
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