What questions should I ask a removals company before booking them?

Choosing the right removals company is one of the most important decisions in any house move. Asking the right questions upfront saves you from nasty surprises on the day. Here are the key areas to cover before you commit to a booking.

• Insurance and liability: Ask whether the company holds goods-in-transit insurance and public liability insurance, what the coverage limits are, and how they handle damage claims. Reputable companies such as Astra Removals carry full goods-in-transit and public liability cover as standard.
• Written quotes: Always ask for a written, itemised quote rather than a verbal estimate. Check whether the price is fixed or subject to change, and ask what could cause the final bill to increase — for example, long carry distances, parking restrictions, or staircases.
• Experience and specialisms: Ask how long the company has been trading and whether they have handled similar moves — for instance, large family homes, flats with no lift access, or long-distance relocations from Dorset to elsewhere in the UK. A company with decades of local experience will know the quirks of Bournemouth and the surrounding area, including parking challenges on coastal roads and narrow access in older properties.
• Crew, vehicles, and equipment: Find out how many crew members will attend, what size lorry or van will be used for your volume of goods, and whether they supply packing materials or only transport boxes you pack yourself. Ask if they have specialist equipment for heavy or fragile items such as pianos or antiques.
• Availability, cancellation, and references: Confirm the company can move you on your preferred completion date, ask about their cancellation or rescheduling policy, and request references or check independent reviews. A long-established, family-run business will usually have a verifiable local reputation built over many years.