Professional Removal Company or Do it yourself?

A question many home buyers often ask when planning a house move, should I use a professional removal company or do it myself?

Choosing either option is entirely in your own hands, however you must evaluate the pros and cons for each option before making your decision.

Hire a professional removal firm or hire a van yourself?

Choosing between a DIY move or hiring a professional company is not an easy decision and is usually based on time versus money.

Hiring a removal company may will save you time, but could be expensive, whereas moving yourself will save money but will be more time-consuming.

Other factors that may sway your decision is the distance to be moved, the number items involved.

In addition, whether you will require storage or not between moving dates.

However, never underestimate the amount of physical and mental organisation it takes to move home.

Packing boxes is one thing, but transporting them from A to B, is a different matter.

It can be extremely exhausting, especially if you’re on a tight deadline.

DIY Removals Option

Many people choose this route when looking to cut costs after buying a house.

Even though you are likely to save money, make sure you can perform a move without creating unnecessary stress.

Think! Hiring a van yourself can be costly, especially for moves that take place over long distances (Van hire cost + petrol) and international moves should especially be done by professionals.

e.g. considering border crossing and the paperwork that may be required.

Also, you will need to take into account the cost of any damage that may occur in transit.

It may be best to hire a vehicle suited for removals and get help from family and friends.

Other benefits of a DIY move include packing items in your own time, safely handle fragile items and know exactly what goes where.

Finally, you can also work to your own schedule but on the day of the move, you must be prepared to do multiple trips back and forth.

Tips for DIY

If you choose DIY, it is important to be ready.

Make sure your transport is suitable and available if so, begin to plan the move.

• Start upstairs and empty one room at a time.
• Use durable boxes or plastic containers for better storage and handling.
• Label everything using a decent marker to help you at the other end.
• If you have fragile items, make sure they are properly packed.
• Do an inventory of your stuff and make notes on where you packed everything.

Professional Removals Company Option

Choosing a removal company, you need to think about budget, your schedule and whether you want just removals or full packing and unpacking services.

To get a good indication of costs make sure that you get at least three quotes from reputable companies.

Tips for using a professional removal company

It is essential that you give all your moving requirements and logistics to avoid any unnecessary costs at a later stage.

• Write a brief for the company
• List all the contents you want moving
• Mark particular valuable items (consider separate insurance cover for these)
• Will any items need to storage until you are fully settled in to your new home
• Check the Review and testimonials of the company you are going to use
• Get your quote in writing

Once you have accepted a quote, a date can be set, and your move can begin.

In conclusion

Using a professional removal company seems the least stressful way to move if your budget allows, but don’t ignore the risks.

Damage of possessions is a real possibility, so make sure your insurance covers the move.

However, if you are on a tight budget and have plenty of people to help a DIY removal can be the best option but be under no illusions it will be stressful and hard work.

The choice is yours!

Are you planning to move in 2024? Or perhaps you’re planning to upgrade or downsize in 2025?

Speak to a member of our team to find out how we can take the stress out of moving home.