Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Perth Removalists Before Booking

Moving to a new home is exciting, but let’s face it, it can also be pretty overwhelming. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving across the city or just down the street, finding the right removalists in Perth can make or break the entire moving experience for you. 

With so many companies out there promising affordable prices and great service, it’s easy to get lost in the options and feel unsure about who to trust with your stuff. 

Here’s some advice, before you book anything, taking the time to ask the right questions can help you avoid nasty surprises, protect your belongings, and make sure you're getting the best value for your money. 

We’ve put together a list of the top 10 questions you should ask your removalists in Perth before booking, so you can feel confident that you've picked the right team. 

1. What Exactly are Your Services?

The last thing you want is to book a company and find out halfway through the process that they don't provide the kind of service you need. Before you book them, ask if they provide packing services. This should even be part of the things you ask about in your very first conversation.

Some removalists will pack your things for you, including fragile or expensive items, while others will just transport what you've already packed. 

Also, ask if they can handle moving your items in and out of multi-story buildings. Not all companies have the equipment to do this easily, especially if you live in an apartment or somewhere with stairs. You’ll want to be sure they can move your stuff safely, without any damage.

2. How Early Should I Book Your Services?

If you're moving during busy periods (like weekends or the end of the month), it’s a good idea to book well in advance. Some removalists might have a minimum booking window, especially during peak times, so the earlier you lock in your move, the more likely you’ll get your preferred dates.

3. Are You a Licensed and Insured Perth Removalist?

You must always ask and ensure the removalist you’re planning to hire has the right insurance to cover any damage to your items or property while they’re in transit. 

Some companies may offer transit insurance, which can cover things like breakages, lost items, or even damage to your new home. Always ask what exactly the insurance covers, and make sure you fully understand it. 

You should also ask if the company is part of the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA). AFRA sets the standards for moving companies in Australia. If a company is certified by AFRA, it means they meet the required guidelines, have the right equipment, and follow safe practices, so you know you’re getting a professional service.

4. Do You Have Special Means of Handling Fragile Items?

If you're packing fragile or valuable things like antiques, electronics, artwork, or family heirlooms, it’s important to ask the removalists about their specific methods for handling these.

 Any good removalist should have a clear plan for how they’ll protect your delicate belongings from start to finish. You also want to make sure that the company uses high-quality, new packing materials. 

5. What’s Your Average Time Frame for a Removal in Perth?

A typical removal in Perth can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on how big your property is and how much stuff you have. 

If you’re moving out of a small apartment, for example, it could be done in just a few hours. But if you have a larger home with lots of furniture, it could take a full day to get everything packed, loaded, and unloaded. 

Nonetheless, you still have to ask the moving company how long they expect the move to take based on the size of your place, so you can plan your day around it.

6. Can I See the Break Down for Your Quote?

It’s always a good idea to get a clear understanding of how your removalist charges before agreeing to anything. 

A reputable removalist will provide you with a detailed breakdown of the costs, including things like hourly rates, travel charges, packing services, and any additional fees for handling specialty items like pianos or antiques. If they can't offer this, it might be a red flag.

7. Will There Be Any Miscellaneous Charges?

Some companies might have hidden fees, such as charges for carrying items upstairs, long-distance transport within the house, or fuel surcharges. Make sure to ask about these upfront. 

Always confirm whether the quote you’ve received is the final price, or if it might change based on additional services or unforeseen circumstances.

8. Are There Specific Items You Will Not Move?

Many removalists have restrictions on moving things like chemicals, paint, or even plants in some cases. Make sure to clarify what the removalist is comfortable moving and whether you need to make separate arrangements for special items​.

And it's not just chemicals or plants. Some of them also refuse to take certain items like hazardous materials, large furniture, or fragile antiques. 

9. Do You Have Any References I Can Crosscheck With?

A good Perth removalist will have no trouble providing you with testimonials or contacts from past clients who can share their experiences. 

You can also check online reviews to see if others have had positive experiences, but speaking directly to past clients can give you more insight into the quality of service you can expect​

10. Do You Have a Cancellation Policy?

Things can change, and sometimes plans don’t work out as expected. It’s quite necessary to ask about the cancellation policy before you book. 

Some companies offer flexibility, while others may charge a cancellation fee, especially if you're cancelling close to the scheduled moving date. Make sure you understand the terms to avoid any financial surprises along the line.

Also Read: How to Choose the Best Perth Removalists for a Stress-Free Move