You’ll probably have hundreds of questions about removals as you prepare for the big day, whether you’re moving locally, long-distance, or planning an international relocation. Here at Britannia Robbins, we have been moving people since 1907, so we know a lot about the process!
Our comprehensive checklists detail all the main tasks you will need to consider when moving home, and also explain when you should tackle them, so feel free to download one below:
– UK Removals Checklist
– International Removals Checklist
Here are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions, but if you would like more information on any aspect of moving home, our expert coordinators are just an email or phone call away – 01792 584 229 or info@britanniarobbins.co.uk.
Planning and budgeting for your removal
How much does it cost for a removal?
That’s a tricky question! No two moves are the same, and we consider lots of factors when preparing our quotes. The main considerations are the amount of goods being moved and the distance between properties. However, we also need to think about vehicle access, the use of lifts and stairs, packing requirements, furniture dismantling and reassembly, and items needing specialist care such as pianos and artwork. All these things may impact the number of staff and days required to complete the move.
If you would like a rough guide price, our quick quote system will give you an idea of likely costs. However, we would need to complete a removals survey before providing an accurate quote. We can do this either in person or using the Britannia video survey app.
If you would like to book your survey, please get in touch with our friendly team on 01792 584 229 or info@britanniarobbins.co.uk.
How much does your removals packing service cost?
The cost of our packing service depends on the amount of belongings you have, along with any specialist items that require additional care such as art, antiques, and musical instruments. Your surveyor will be able to give you a price for packing during your removals survey.
Most customers are surprised at how quickly our crews can pack an entire house, and often comment on what great value our packing service is. We would be happy to provide a quotation both with and without the packing service to help you decide.
Is there a best day / time to save money on a move?
Our prices don’t vary from one day to another, but we do tend to get booked up more quickly at certain times. There is usually particularly high demand for removals at the end of the month, and Fridays are generally very busy.
When should I get a removals quote?
Once you have decided to move, it is never too early to start getting removals quotes! Allow yourself plenty of time to shortlist companies, arrange surveys, and then compare the quotes and make decisions.
You should ideally have chosen your preferred mover 4-8 weeks in advance of your scheduled moving date, as certain times of the year are extremely busy with house moves. We do sometimes get booked up far in advance, especially during school holidays.
In order to give you an accurate quote we will need to carry out a survey, either in person or by video. To arrange this, get in touch on 01792 584 229 or info@britanniarobbins.co.uk.
When should I book my removal?
You should book your move with as much notice as possible to make sure you can secure the services of your preferred mover on your scheduled moving date. Most people confirm their date around 2 weeks in advance, and sometimes it’s much earlier if you’re not involved in a house purchase chain.
We do request a deposit in order to secure a date with us, as per the terms and conditions of our trade association, the British Association of Removers. However, we recognise and understand that for some customers who are battling with unstable chains and short notice exchange and completion, this can be a very stressful situation.
Our best advice is to select a removals company early in the home moving process, and then stay in regular contact with them as your purchase progresses and you gain more understanding of your likely moving date. They can also advise you about especially busy dates in their diary, thereby increasing the chances of a stress-free move.
Do you insure my belongings during the move?
We offer protection policies to give you full peace of mind while you’re moving home. It’s also worth checking your home insurance policy to see whether it already covers your move.
If you’re moving abroad, you must have a marine insurance policy in place. You can arrange this through Britannia Robbins or purchase it independently, and you’ll need to provide evidence that you’ve purchased a policy.
Do I have to pay a deposit?
Yes, in accordance with our terms and conditions we will require a deposit in order to confirm your moving date.
We understand that when you are buying and selling property, there can be some uncertainty around completion dates right up until the last minute, but we recommend asking your conveyancer to plan for at least two weeks between exchange and completion, which should allow you to organise and confirm your move.
What if my moving date changes?
We recommend that you stay in close contact with your Britannia Robbins move coordinator throughout the process, and only confirm your move with us once you have exchanged contracts and are sure of your completion date.
Unfortunately, if you book a date with us and then have to cancel it, we will need to charge a cancellation fee. It’s best to stay in regular contact so we can all work together to try and avoid this.
Do you offer storage?
Yes, Britannia Robbins can offer several different types of safe and cost effective storage depending on your requirements. Self storage – which we offer through our sister company Swansea Self Storage – is perfect if you need regular access. However, if you have a large amount to store then traditional warehouse storage is often the better option.
We even offer a student storage solution which includes collection and drop off to campus.
You can visit our storage pages or give us a call on 01792 584 229 for more information.
Do you move people abroad?
Yes – Britannia Robbins has specialised in overseas relocations for decades. We are a founder member of Britannia Movers International, which gives us access to a dedicated team of export coordinators along with a global network of partner companies.
We carry out overland removals to most European countries, with regular departures to France, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria to name just a few. Our European Removals page is a great resource if you’re moving within Europe.
If your move is long-distance and will require shipping or airfreight, we can provide the right global expertise to get you to almost any country around the world! You can find out more on our International Moves page.
Preparing to move
Do I have to pack my clothes?
If you have chosen our packing service, we’ll transfer your hanging items into special wardrobe boxes so they arrive in perfect condition. Lightweight clothing and bed linen can be left in a sturdy chest of drawers, and we can move the whole unit in one piece. Pack any other clothes into cardboard boxes, as these are easier for us to stack efficiently in the removals truck.
If you are doing your own packing, make sure the clothes boxes don’t get too heavy to lift, and place delicate items on the top so they don’t get crushed.
Don’t forget to separate all the clothing and personal items you need for your first night in the new property. These should ideally travel with you together with any valuables.
Can you move my pets?
Whilst we can pack and move everything from cages to animal beds, we cannot transport your pets in our vehicles. However, we can promise that our team will work hard to get everything in place ready for the whole family (including furry friends) to settle in at the other end of their journey.
If you are moving internationally, then we can recommend a pet relocation service with full confidence. They have decades of experience, and are run by experts with your pet’s best interests at heart.
Do you do removals at weekends?
We do not typically offer removals on Saturdays or Sundays. Our crews work hard, and need to have a rest and some time with their own families at the end of each week. However, for long-distance and business moves sometimes weekend working is unavoidable. Therefore we will consider these on a case-by-case basis.
How do I get packing materials?
If you want to do your own packing, then we can supply materials or you can source them independently. We always recommend our own boxes, packing paper, tape and bubble wrap. That’s because we know it’s high quality and designed specifically for moving household goods.
Is there anything you can’t move?
Items we cannot move for you include:
• Hazardous materials such as paint, gas bottles, and aerosols
• Chemicals or radioactive materials
• Illegal items such as narcotics
• Weapons, ammunition or any explosives
• Valuables such as jewellery, legal documents, and money
• Open cartons, packets, and bottles of food and drink
We can’t move any living creatures either. However, if you’re moving overseas, we can recommend our pet relocation partners PetAir UK. They are experts in this field, with decades of experience.
How do I prepare white goods / appliances for the move?
Empty and defrost your fridges and freezers in advance. Then you will need to unplug and disconnect all of your electrical appliances, and secure loose hoses and cables. If you no longer have the transit bolts for your washing machine, we recommend that you pack it tightly with blankets to minimise the chances of damage.
Who arranges parking for the truck?
If you need to organise a parking suspension to allow our vehicle access to your property, we would usually ask you to organise this. Our representative can discuss this with you during your survey. Where a permit is not needed, it’s usually sufficient to speak to your neighbours in advance. Then you can use bins or cones to reserve the space required before the truck arrives.
Moving day
Can you move plants?
Yes, we can generally move garden pots and houseplants for you within the UK. You will need to mention this during your removals survey. Plants can take up a lot of space in a vehicle because we can’t stack anything on top of them, so we have to plan carefully for this. Transporting plants may also require additional vehicle cleaning after the move is complete.
Certain items such as large trees and very heavy pots may need specialist equipment or contractors to move them safely. Your surveyor should be able to provide further support and advice.
Can you move hot tubs?
In general, yes – we can arrange for your hot tub to be moved to your new property. However, this may involve specialist lifting equipment, additional crew members, or even a large crane. Therefore it’s important to discuss this with us several weeks in advance. This will give us time to put a comprehensive plan in place for a stress-free move.
You will need to drain and disconnect the hot tub in advance of moving day.
Can I travel in the truck?
This is a common question, but I’m afraid we can’t allow customers to travel in the removals vehicle. This is due to our insurance policy restrictions.
Do I need to tip the movers?
Tips are purely at your discretion. Some customers like to tip the removals crew as a way of showing their appreciation. This is often where the move has been complex, delayed, or the team have really been extra helpful. However, it is always optional and never expected.
Will you dismantle and reassemble my furniture?
Yes, this is part of our commitment to offering you a smooth and stress-free moving day. Britannia Robbins crews will always arrive armed with a toolbox and a good working knowledge of furniture dismantling and assembly. Please mention this during the survey, as it’s a service that we would need to plan and charge for.
Our surveyor can advise on any flatpack furniture that isn’t well-suited to being dismantled and rebuilt. For complex items, please ensure that you have a copy of the instructions to hand.
Can you pack my food cupboards?
If you are using our packing service then our crews will come with everything they need to pack your kitchen. This will include any sealed packets and jars of food.
We don’t have the facility to move foods that require refrigeration. Therefore we recommend using up as much as possible in advance. Then you could donate unwanted items, and empty your fridge and freezer prior to moving day.
If you have any other questions about moving home, international removals, or relocating your workplace, get in touch today. Our experienced team will be happy to assist you. info@britanniarobbins.co.uk – 01792 584 229.