Choosing the right removal firm

The cheapest way to move is to do it yourself but this can take some time and can be hard work. Moving is not going to be cheap so set a side a budget for moving even moving yourself is not going to be cheap.

Shop around
It is important to get the best deal you can from the removal firm you opt for. So shop around and get a few quotes before you decide which one you want to use. A reputable removal firm would not offer you a quote until they have seen your possessions. Call a few different firms to come out and have a look at what you intend to move. You should write them out a full list of things that you are wanting moved and also a list of things that you will be moving yourself. Only then can they give you a honest quote. Make sure that you get the quote in writing so that they can't add any extra costs once you decide to use them.

• The removal firm will come to your house and give you a free estimate of the cost of your move. Expect to pay more if you want to move during a peak period (Bank holidays, Fridays, etc). Find out if the quote includes VAT and insurance.
• Find out if the firm is a member of British Association of Removers (BAR) accredited. BAR is the trade association for the removals and storage industry. This indicates that a firm is reputable, and means you will be protected by the Association's code of practice.

What you will pay
What you pay will depend on how many rooms of furniture you have, the distance you're moving and if there are any obstacles to your move, for example, piece of furniture that must come through a window because it won't fit through the doors.

Removal service
You should decide on what kind of removal service you require. For example, do you want the company to do your packing and unpacking for you, or do you want them to pack but not unpack your belongings or simply just move what you've already packed? Anything you pack yourself will not be covered by the insurance they provide.

If you are doing the packing yourself ask the removal firm if they can provide you with some packing boxes or crates. (They may charge you a small fee for this.) Or go to your local super market and get some large boxes.

Once you have chosen a firm
Make sure they know exactly how to get to your home, and give them a spare key if necessary. Also make sure you give them a mobile number so that they can contact you on moving day.

The big day
If you have done the packing yourself make sure you give them an inventory plan of all your goods and keep a copy for yourself so that you don't forget what has been packed and what boxes they are in. Once everything is unpacked make sure that everything is in order and that nothing is broke or lost. If anything is broken or lost contact the removal firm as soon as possible to ensure that you can get the insurance back off of it.