Once you have decided that a move is definitely on the cards for your office, it’s best to start talking to potential removal companies so that you can gain an understanding of how much your move will cost, what you need to do to prepare and when they would be available.
So how do you go about choosing a removals company for your office move, and what should you look for?
Accreditations
It’s fairly easy to set up a website and tell people that you can do something, but if you can really do it, then you can be backed by accreditations and should be covered with insurances. Unfortunately, we get too many calls from people who have needed us to step in when they have been let down by an unqualified supplier. It may take longer to do the checks involved with ensuring that accreditations and insurances are held, but it will be worth it in the end. So how can you check that companies really are who they claim to be? If they state they are members of bodies such as the Association of Independent Movers, you can check to see if they really are.
Insurances
Ensure that you know what your removals company covers in their insurances and what they don’t so that you can be completely clear on what eventualities you have covered, should anything go wrong.
Make your budget realistic
While you may have an idea and a hope of how much your move will cost, the best way to get a realistic idea is obviously to speak to the removal companies, but we would like to tell you to take this one step further: ask the removal companies to come to you to quote. This way, they will be able to give you a completely informed estimate, as they will be able to see exactly what you need, what your building layout is like and how the day could work out for both of you.
Check what’s included
Does your price include packing or unpacking? Will it include packaging? Or is it simply a move? Will you need storage? Can they provide it? Make sure you’re clear on what you’re paying for.
What about a dedicated commercial manager?
You should have an experienced commercial manager running your office move, who will ensure that you have one point of contact throughout every stage of your move.
What do other customers say about them?
It’s never been easier to find out what other people think about everything and everyone, including companies that you may want to work with. Check out their social media and any reviews that they have online. If you are part of community groups, ask other people what they think but remember to take any negativity with a pinch of salt. If you can see a theme then you’re getting a feel for what they are like but be sure to get to know the removal company a bit yourself before making a final decision – you’ll know best who you are comfortable working with.
Ask for case studies
Has the removal company you’re hoping to work with undertaking projects similar to yours? It woud be great if you could hear about them.
Is there anything else that you would like to know about a move and how to prepare? We’d love to talk through all your removals needs – get in touch!