Moving to a new home is always a big transition. Whether you're making a short hop within Norwich or settling into a new place in Suffolk, everyone hopes for a smooth, stress-free experience. That's why picking the right removal company becomes one of your most important decisions. Getting it right starts with being informed before you make your choice.
We've put together this helpful guide on seven essential questions to ask any East Anglia clearance and removal company before you book their service. Think of this as your personal checklist to help you spot a truly trusted partner to make your move easy.
1. Are You Fully Insured, and What Does That Cover?
This isn't just a good question; it's absolutely necessary. A reputable removal company should always have comprehensive insurance in place to protect your belongings against any unforeseen loss or damage that may occur during transit.
But do you just take their word for it? Feel confident asking for proof!
What to ask: "Could you please confirm your insurance coverage?"
What to look for: Look for clear, specific figures on the policy coverage.
For instance, here at WeOne Removals and Clearances Ltd., we're fully covered with Goods in Transit insurance as well as Public Liability insurance.
What to watch out for: Any hesitation to provide precise insurance details or if a company only mentions basic third-party liability that won't adequately protect your possessions.
2. What is Your Approach to Protecting My Belongings?
Beyond insurance, you'll want to know about their practical methods for safeguarding your possessions during transit.
How do they handle your goods?
What to ask: "How do you handle furniture and fragile items during transit? Does your company take special measures to ensure our goods are safe from physical damage?"
What to look for: Look for professional, trained staff who expertly load and secure items. Ensure they use protective measures, such as blankets or specialist wrapping, for delicate pieces. Also, ensure that their vehicles are well-maintained.
What to watch out for: A lack of clear answers might mean the company is cutting corners on packing materials or proper handling.
3. What is included in Your Quote?
You deserve to understand exactly what you're paying for, avoiding any hidden fees that could unexpectedly inflate your moving budget.
So here you go!
What to ask: "How do you calculate your quotes? What exactly is included in the quoted price? Do you offer a fixed price or an hourly rate?"
What to look for: Does the company offer transparent pricing? Are there any benefits available for you with local moves?
A bonus would be if the company offered a free, no-obligation on-site survey for larger moves. It allows them to properly assess the volume of your belongings, any access challenges, and specific item needs, ensuring the most accurate and fair quote.
Read more on the pricing system by WeOne Removals and Clearances.
What to watch out for: Quotes given vaguely over the phone without any detailed assessment, a lack of clear breakdowns, or a refusal to put everything in writing.
It is best not to commit to a removal company without receiving a detailed written quote.
4. Are You a Licensed Waste Carrier?
If you are looking for a clearance service or decluttering your place, you'll want to ensure that everything is handled legally and responsibly.
What to ask: "Are you a licensed waste carrier? Can I see your license number?"
What to look for: A company that can immediately provide their Environment Agency waste carrier license number.
This is your assurance that they are legally authorised to transport waste and dispose of it correctly, protecting both you and the environment.
What to watch out for: Any company that cannot provide a license number but is offering to dispose of items.
Using an unlicensed carrier could, unfortunately, leave you liable if your waste is illegally fly-tipped.
5. What is Your Experience with Moves Like Mine?
Every single move is unique. Some might be relatively straightforward, while others involve awkward items, long distances, or even very specific timelines.
You want a company that has seen it all, or at least enough to handle your particular challenge.
What to ask: "How much experience do you have with your specific type of move?"
It could be a 4-bedroom house move, downsizing one, or a long-distance move from East Anglia to Scotland. It might also involve specialist items, such as a piano or antiques.
What to look for: A company that shows confidence and demonstrable knowledge regarding your particular needs.
Ask for examples of similar past jobs they've handled successfully.
What to watch out for: Evasive answers or a company that seems overly eager to take on a job they might not genuinely have adequate experience for.
6. Can You Provide References or Direct Me to Customer Reviews?
Hearing directly from past clients is often one of the very best indicators of a company's reliability, professionalism, and overall service quality.
What to ask: "Can you share any recent customer testimonials, or to where I can find some independent reviews of your service?"
What to look for: A strong, consistent presence on independent review platforms like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or Facebook, with plenty of positive feedback.
It's also a good sign if they respond thoughtfully to any negative reviews, showing how they handle and resolve issues.
What to watch out for: Only glowing testimonials without external verification or a lack of client reviews are red flags to watch out for.
7. What Happens if There's an Issue or Delay on Moving Day?
Even with the most meticulous planning, sometimes, reality often has other plans. There is an unexpected issue: your keys might be delayed, or the weather may be unfavorable for the shift.
It is always a good idea to know how the company would handle such situations.
What to ask: What is your protocol if something goes wrong and there is an unexpected hold on moving day?
What to look for: A clear, reassuring response outlining their problem-solving approach.
They should have practical contingency plans in place and maintain open communication channels with you.
What to watch out for: A dismissive attitude or one of overconfidence that "nothing ever goes wrong".
In Conclusion
Take the time to ask questions before you finalize on a removal or clearance company. You'll gain invaluable insight into the company's professionalism, reliability, and genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.
Here at WeOne Removals and Clearances Ltd., we genuinely believe that an informed client is a happy client. We'd love you to ask us questions about everything that comes to mind.
We are confident in our transparent pricing, comprehensive insurance, licensed operations, and our unwavering dedication to making your move as smooth and stress-free as humanly possible.
Ready to get a clear, no-obligation quote for your East Anglia removal or clearance? Contact WeOne Removals and Clearances Ltd. today, and let's get talking.