Whether you’re moving to a new home, relocating an office, or downsizing your property, hiring Removal Services in Birmingham can significantly reduce stress and physical effort. However, not everything is always included in the base price, and certain items and tasks may incur additional charges.
What is Usually Included in Standard Removal Services?
Most removal companies provide a set of basic services within a standard quote. Here’s what’s generally covered:
Loading and Unloading
The core service in any removal package includes loading your belongings onto the removal van and unloading them at your new location. Trained movers handle furniture, boxes, appliances, and personal belongings to ensure safe transport.
Transportation
Transporting your items from point A to point B is the central part of the service. The company uses vans or lorries depending on the volume and size of your move. The cost of fuel and mileage is usually included in the initial estimate, especially for moves within the same city or region.
Basic Insurance Cover
Most companies offer standard insurance coverage, often referred to as “goods in transit” insurance. This usually protects your items against damage or loss during transport, but only up to a specific value (often around £10,000–£50,000, depending on the provider). High-value items may need extra cover.
Dismantling and Reassembling Furniture
Some companies include the disassembly and reassembly of large furniture items, such as beds, wardrobes, or desks, as part of the package. Others might only do this upon request or charge extra for complicated furniture such as flat-pack units or antiques.
Protective Blankets and Straps
To keep your items safe in transit, movers often use padded blankets, bubble wrap, shrink wrap, and tie-down straps. These are usually part of the service but should always be confirmed before booking.
Packing Boxes and Materials (Sometimes)
Some removal services offer complimentary or rental use of packing materials, such as cardboard boxes, wardrobe cartons, and tape. However, many charge separately for packing supplies if you choose to pack your belongings.
What Typically Incurs Extra Charges?
While the basic service covers a significant amount, several extras can substantially increase the total cost. Let’s look at these add-ons in detail:
Packing and Unpacking Services
Full-service packing (where professionals pack all your items) is usually not included in the base rate. This convenience comes with an extra fee depending on the number of rooms and the complexity of the packing.
Unpacking services, which involve setting up your items in the new property, are also charged separately unless included in a premium package.
Storage Solutions
If there’s a delay in moving dates or you’re downsizing, you may need temporary storage. Most companies offer secure, short-term or long-term storage units, but these come at an additional weekly or monthly cost.
Specialist Item Handling
Some items require extra care, special equipment, or more manpower to move. These may include:
- Pianos
- Hot tubs
- Antiques or fine art
- Large safes
- Gym equipment
- Aquariums
Moving such items typically incurs a specialist handling fee.
Long Carry Charges
If movers must carry your items over a long distance from your home to the van (e.g., due to a lack of parking or elevators), they may apply a long carry fee. This is especially common in urban flats or properties with narrow access.
Stair Charges
Moving from or into an upper-floor apartment with no lift? Expect additional stair charges. These are calculated based on the number of floors and whether heavy items are involved.
Waiting Time Fees
Some companies have a strict schedule. If you cause a delay during loading or unloading (for example, if keys are not released in a timely manner), waiting time charges may apply, calculated in half-hour increments or hourly.
Evening or Weekend Moves
Standard rates usually apply to weekday, daytime removals. If you request a move during evenings, weekends, or public holidays, you may be charged a premium rate for unsociable hours.
Cleaning Services
Some removal companies offer pre- or post-move cleaning services for your old or new property. This is never included in the removal package and will be priced separately.
Final Thoughts:
Removal services and Luton Van Hire Birmingham are a significant help when relocating your home or business. From specialist item handling to packing services and storage, being clear about your requirements in advance can save both time and money.
Whether you’re hiring a local removal team for a small flat move or planning a full-scale cross-country relocation, it pays to ask the right questions and clarify what’s included. A well-planned move with a transparent removal company will make your transition smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
