What to Look for When Choosing a Home Removalist: A Complete Guide for Stress-Free Moving

Moving to a new home—whether down the street or across the country—can be an exciting new chapter in your life. But it also comes with a lot of stress, planning, and logistics, so it’s a job best left to the professional. One of the most important decisions you’ll make during this process is hiring the right home removalist to transport your belongings safely, efficiently, and affordably.

With so many moving companies offering a range of services and prices, how do you know which one to trust with your treasured possessions? In this guide, we’ll explore what to look for when choosing a home removalist, so your next move can be smooth, secure, and worry-free.

10 Things to Look For When Choosing a Home Removalist

1. Reputation and Reviews

Start your search by researching the reputation of the removalist companies in your area. A reputable removalist should have:

• Positive customer reviews on platforms like Google, ProductReview.com.au, and social media

• Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, family, or real estate agents

• A professional online presence including a well-maintained website, clear contact information, and details of their services

Look for consistent feedback. A few bad reviews among many positive ones are normal, but frequent complaints about damaged items, lateness, or hidden fees are red flags.

2. Experience and Accreditation

An experienced removalist is often a safer bet than a newer company still learning the ropes. Here’s what to check:

• How long have they been in business? A well-established removalist company is more likely to have refined processes and trained staff.

• Are they accredited? In Australia, look for membership in organisations such as the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA). AFRA-accredited companies must meet strict criteria in training, insurance, equipment, and vehicle standards.

3. Range of Services

Different moves require different services. Some removalists offer only basic transport, while others provide a complete moving package. Consider what you need:

• Packing and unpacking – Do you want them to pack for you, or will you handle this yourself?

• Furniture disassembly and reassembly

• Temporary storage solutions

• Interstate or international moves

• Pet or vehicle relocation

Look for a company that offers customisable options so you don’t end up paying for services you don’t need.

4. Transparent and Competitive Pricing

One of the biggest concerns when hiring a home removalist is cost. Reputable movers should provide:

• Free quotes or in-home assessments

• Transparent pricing with no hidden charges

• Clear breakdowns of what’s included (e.g., fuel, tolls, packing materials)

Get at least three quotes to compare pricing, but beware of quotes that seem too cheap. Low prices might mean low-quality service or a risk of added charges later.

Also, ask if the quote is hourly or fixed-rate. Fixed rates can provide more peace of mind for longer moves.

5. Insurance and Liability Coverage

Accidents can happen, even with experienced professionals. That’s why insurance is essential.

Ask the removalist:

• What insurance coverage is included in the price?

• Is there Transit Insurance for loss or damage during transport?

• Do they offer Public Liability Insurance for accidents on your property?

• Can you purchase additional insurance for valuable items?

Don’t assume your contents insurance will cover the move—check with your provider and confirm with the mover.

6. Equipment and Fleet

The quality of a removalist’s vehicles and equipment can affect the safety of your belongings. A professional company should have:

• Clean, reliable moving trucks in good condition

• Protective gear like blankets, straps, and dollies

• Lifting tools for heavy or awkward items like pianos or fridges

If they turn up in a battered ute with no padding or straps, that’s a clear sign to avoid.

7. Trained and Polite Staff

The people handling your furniture should be professionally trained, respectful, and efficient. When talking to the company, ask:

• Are their removalists trained or subcontracted?

• Do they wear uniforms or ID badges?

• Are they experienced in handling fragile or speciality items?

Friendly, competent staff can make a huge difference on moving day, especially during stressful moments.

8. Local Knowledge

If you’re moving within the same city or state, choosing a local removalist can offer several benefits:

• They understand traffic patterns and shortcuts in your area

• They may have better availability for last-minute moves

• They might offer more affordable rates than national companies

For interstate or long-distance moves, however, ensure they’re experienced in logistics, border regulations, and scheduling for longer hauls.

9. Flexibility and Availability

Your move might not go according to plan—delays, date changes, or unexpected problems can happen. Choose a company that offers:

• Flexible scheduling and rescheduling policies

• Availability on weekends or holidays (if needed)

• Prompt customer service in case you need help or changes

Check their cancellation policy too—will you be penalised if your settlement date shifts?

10. Clear Communication

From your first contact to the final unpacking, good communication is essential. You should feel confident that:

• Your questions are answered promptly and clearly

• They provide written confirmation of all services and pricing

• They keep in touch about arrival times and potential delays

Avoid companies that are hard to reach, vague in their answers, or pushy in their sales approach.

Bonus Tip: Watch Out for Scams

Unfortunately, there are dishonest operators out there. To avoid being scammed:

• Never pay the full amount upfront

• Avoid movers who only communicate by mobile or won’t provide a physical address

• Be wary of cash-only operators

• Check ABN registration and business licences

Scams can cost you more than money—they can result in lost or damaged items, delays, and serious stress.

Questions to Ask Your Potential Removalist

To help you compare removalists, ask these questions:

1. Are you AFRA-accredited?

2. What insurance do you include, and can I purchase more?

3. Do you charge hourly or a flat rate?

4. Can I see testimonials or references from past customers?

5. Do you offer packing materials or services?

6. What happens if my moving date changes?

7. Are there any extra fees I should know about (stairs, fuel, weekends)?

8. Will the same team pack, load, and deliver?

9. Can you handle special items like antiques, pianos, or large TVs?

10. Do you offer storage if needed?

Final Thoughts

Moving house can be one of the most stressful life events—but choosing the right home removalist can turn a chaotic day into a calm transition. By focusing on reputation, experience, pricing, insurance, and customer service, you can feel confident that your belongings are in good hands.

Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Instead, look for a balance of value, professionalism, and care. Do your research, ask the right questions, and plan ahead.

With the right team on your side, your move can be an exciting beginning—not a logistical nightmare.

Summary Checklist: What to Look for in a Home Removalist

• Positive reviews and reputation
• AFRA accreditation and industry experience
• Transparent pricing with written quotes
• Appropriate insurance coverage
• Trained, courteous staff
• Clean vehicles and proper moving equipment
• Flexibility and good customer service
• Clear communication from start to finish
• No hidden fees or scammy behaviour

Take the time to find the right removalist—it will save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Happy moving!