Start with a survey based quote

Be wary of a price given without anyone seeing what you are moving. A survey, in person, by video or from a walkthrough video, is how a company works out volume, access and packing needs. It should not cost you anything, and the quote that follows should reflect your actual move.

Ask exactly what is included

Ask for the quote in writing, with a clear list of what it covers and what it leaves out. The things that most often cause confusion are packing and materials, dismantling and reassembly, parking and any London charges such as the Congestion Charge and ULEZ. Our guide prices, for example, do not include parking charges, the Congestion Charge or ULEZ where they apply.

Good to know: Our guide prices do not include parking charges, the Congestion Charge or ULEZ where they apply. Always ask what a quote leaves out.

Understand the insurance

Do not assume that every company's cover looks the same. Ask:

• What is covered, and what is excluded?

• What is the most they will pay per item, and in total?

• How does packing your own boxes affect cover?

• How are valuable items treated?

• How do you make a claim?

Ask to see the policy document or certificate, and read the exclusions. Then check your own home contents policy too, because some policies cover belongings in transit and some do not. We go through this with every customer at quote stage, and our Insurance Explained guide covers the questions in more detail.

Look at their standing

• Trade body membership: ask whether the company belongs to a trade body such as the British Association of Removers, and what that means if you ever need to raise a complaint.

• Reviews: read recent reviews on independent sites, and look at how the company responds when something has gone wrong, not only at the star rating.

• Contact details: a real company will have a full address, a phone number and a website you can check.

Check the practical details

• Are there charges if the move runs late or you need more time?

• What is the cancellation or postponement policy?

• What size of van will be used, and how many people will come?

• When is payment due, and how can you pay?

Compare like with like

If you collect several quotes, line them up against each other. A lower price that leaves out packing, parking or cover is not the same offer as a higher price that includes them. The cheapest quote is only the best value if it covers the same ground.

Trust how they talk to you

Notice how quickly and clearly a company answers your questions, before you have paid anything. A firm that explains things plainly now is likely to do the same on the day. We are happy to answer every question on this list before you book.