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Frequently asked questions
Curious about how we can make your moving experience smoother? Below, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive. Dive in to discover everything you need to know about our services, process, and more!
What size of van will I get?
The size of the van is decided by our staff based on a survey of your home. It is our responsibility to get this right. Always use a company with experience and a good reputation to ensure that they will. If a survey has not been carried out, we will use the information that you have provided us with to calculate the size of van required. As long as you have been honest then it will still be our responsibility to get it right.
Can I move at the Weekend?
We are able to carry out your removal at any time that is convenient to you, different days and times may carry a premium to reflect the extra cost of staff.
How many Men will do my removal?
The size of the removal crew is decided by our staff based on the information we have and is usually between two and four men. The decision depends on the amount of goods to move and the overall schedule for your move. We will be responsible for allocating enough staff for your move.
How long will my removal take?
There are several factors that affect the time it takes to complete a removal. The obvious ones are the amount of goods and the distance they are moving. Some may be less obvious but are just as important. Simple things like having to park ten feet further from your house due to parked cars can severely change the time it takes to load or unload. Try to inform us of anything that may happen or be different on the day of your removal, even if it does not seem that important.
What size are removal boxes?
Most removal companies use a variety of boxes however there are two main types, a book box and a general purpose box. A general purpose box is often referred to as a Pack 2 or a tea chest box and is 18″ x 18″ x 18″. The book box is smaller to restrict its weight and is suitable for heavier items not just books. It is also known as a Pack 6 and is 18″ x 13″ x 13″.
Packing boxes & boxes for moving, do you provide them?
We stock boxes for moving house at our offices and we often include moving boxes in the price of our removals. Of course, you can buy house moving boxes from Nelsons and we will even ship removal boxes direct to you. Our boxes for moving are strong and made from good quality materials – why not contact us and ask for our moving house boxes prices?
I’m moving house, is there a check list I can follow?
We have a moving house checklist in our Downloads & Guides section.
It’s just a short move, will a man and van do?
Possibly, but unless you know the persons reputation then you could be taking a chance – for example, are they insured and how do you know if they will turn up? Nelsons have almost 40 years experience and comply with the British Association of Removers CTSI Approved Consumer Code of Practice. We do get calls from people who have been let down by man and van companies on the day of their removal. If you are unsure, see our testimonials.
What should I look for in a removal company?
You should always choose an insured, BAR registered removal company with a good reputation, offering all round service. Of course, that’s Nelsons.
How many removal companies should I ask to quote?
Phone around until you find a company who you feel comfortable with. Some operate from mobile numbers and home addresses. We have staffed offices and full time staff and are confident that we can offer you the service you require at competitive prices.
Do you do international removals?
We are international movers and provide worldwide service. If your destination country is outside Europe then we can arrange collection, packing, shipping and international remover companies at your destination to deliver and unpack your belongings.
What do removal costs include?
Nelsons removal prices are tailored to your needs. Our basic service supplies you with a removal van with crew and includes travelling, but you may choose extra services such as packing and storage too.
Do you do piano removals?
We have specialist vehicles, equipment and staff experienced in moving pianos.
Who should I inform when moving house?
This information is in our checklist for moving in the Downloads & Guides section.
How do I move house with a cat?
If you chose Nelson Removals then you may borrow one of our special pet carriers on your removal day.
How long does it take for the removal van to get to my new house?
Most vans used for removals have a maximum speed of 56Mph, so over long distances they can take far longer to get to your new house than you will. If you’re new house is over 200 miles away the removal driver will also have to stop for a minimum of 45 minutes. If the distance is very high then it may be impossible for the trip to be completed within the time a driver is legally able to drive.
How big is a storage container?
The industry standard storage containers are made of timber and are 7 feet by 5 feet and 8 feet tall. The inside of the container can hold 250 cubic feet of goods. These containers a specially designed to be loaded onto and off of custom built vans. Because your goods are loaded into these containers at your address and then sealed, your goods are not handled again until they arrive for redelivery. This greatly reduces the risk of any damage to your goods.
How do I pay for my removal?
Once you have accepted our Quote, we require full payment before or on the morning of your removal. This can be paid via cheque, debit or credit card and BACS.
How do I pay for my Storage?
We quote a weekly storage price per container. Once your containers are loaded and placed into secured storage, the total storage cost is calculated into even monthly amounts. This amount can be paid via cheque, card, standing order or BACS.
Can I access my goods in Store?
Containerised Storage is not the same as Self Storage. Your goods are sealed in a container and then stored with other containers in a warehouse. This ensures that your goods are secure but does not make access easy. Access can be arranged in advance, giving time for your container to be located and set down for you. Self Storage allows you to have 24hr access to your goods but is more expensive. We can offer self storage units at various sizes if access to your goods is important to you.
Are my goods insured?
Yes, your goods will be covered by insurance during your removal and during storage. During your removal, your goods will be insured up to £50,000 per van and during storage they will be insured up to £5,000 per container. Because we are members of the British Association of Removers we must carry insurance, always read the full details of insurance and the terms and conditions.
What items are we not allowed to move or store?
Generally any flammable liquids or gases however they are contained cannot be submitted for removal. Paint and oil cannot be transported either due to the high risk of damage to your goods should they leak. The same rules apply for storage with the addition of foodstuffs. There are other items that cannot be stored or moved, like firearms, ammunition and drugs. For a full and detailed list of exclusions, request and read the terms and conditions.
Do I have to arrange parking?
If parking is difficult outside your property or there are restrictions, you will need to contact your local council and organise parking. We can advise how much room or time will be required to carry out your removal. Any parking fines incurred will be added to your final bill and be paid by you.
How much notice do you require?
Household Removals and storage are usually booked between 7-14 days before the expected move takes place. Please always try to give as much notice as possible. Do not fully book your removal until you are sure everything is in place with the sale and purchase of your house, cancellation charges will apply and can be expensive.
Do you dismantle and reassemble my furniture?
Unless this was agreed in the quote, all items needing dismantled are expected to be done and ready to move before the we arrive. If agreed in the quote, our staff will carry out the dismantling and reassembly as agreed. It is essential that you say what is required at the quotation stage to allow for the necessary time and equipment to be provided.
Will you empty my loft?
We will empty your loft as long as it is safe to do so. The access to the loft must have a fixed staircase or ladder, be properly floored and have lighting. If any of these conditions are not met then you will have to empty the loft before the removal van arrives.
Do I have to empty my drawers?
As long as there are no heavy or breakable items left in drawers then it is usually ok to leave them full. Some types of furniture like self assembly units don’t travel well and it is advised that you empty these completely. As long as the furniture itself is sturdy then items like clothing and bedding can and should be left in.
How much will my removal cost?
There are many factors that are taken into consideration when calculating the price, distance, size of vehicle, access and packing are just some of the obvious ones. Always try to get your property viewed to avoid any doubts, getting a quote over the phone does work but is not as reliable as a survey. We only give quotations, not estimates. Try to avoid being given estimates by other companies as their final bill may be larger than you expected
Can I do my own packing?
Yes is the simple answer. If you do your own packing, use boxes that are a suitable size and strength. Make sure you seal all your boxes as well, open top boxes like banana boxes make it impossible to safely stack your goods in the van. Always find out how packing your own boxes affects your insurance, most companies will only recognise damages if the box has been dropped or crushed. If you are unsure or struggling to get suitable boxes, we can supply you with what you need.
Do you do “Self Storage”?
Yes. We have various sizes of units available but we only recommend these for customers that require access to their goods during storage. Self storage is more expensive and not usually required.
What time will the van arrive?
Generally our staff start work between six and eight o’clock in the morning. We aim to be at your address between 8:30am and 9:00am in the morning. If you are moving long distance we will liaise with you and give you an estimated time of arrival. Sometimes, for many reasons we can be delayed however we will always arrive.
Commercial Removals FAQs
Do you provide a Move Manager?
For larger relocations a move manager is an option we recommend. This option gives you a familiar face to deal with directly and their experience is invaluable if something unforeseen happens. This also leaves your own staff free to continue with their own duties.
Do you move IT equipment?
Yes. We can offer any IT services required, from simply moving your PCs to full server and network setup. In partnership with a professional IT company, we can give detailed advice on anything your new office may require from broadband to servers.
Do you move photocopiers?
If the copier belongs to your company we can move and install it. If the copier is leased we will need confirmation from the leasing company giving us permission.
Do you move safes?
Small safes will be relocated with no special requirements. Larger safes require specialist equipment and expert handling. Our surveyor will assess what is needed and include all the details in a commercial quote. Some safes also need to be perfectly level on an even surface to operate correctly. Whatever is needed we can arrange it.
Do you dismantle furniture?
If necessary we will dismantle and reassemble any furniture.
Do you relocate offices during weekends or evenings?
We are capable of carrying out your relocation at any time that is convenient to your business, different days and times carry a premium to reflect the extra cost of staff.
Do you arrange parking?
We can advise you on what is required however it is the customers responsibility to liaise with local council and organise suitable and safe parking at their premises.
Do I have to empty filing cabinets?
All filing cabinets without exception must be emptied for safety.
Do you supply packing crates?
Crates are available for hire with labels and security seals for confidential or sensitive material.
Do you pack the crates?
As with all removals, we can offer a tailored packing service to suite your needs. Most businesses prefer to do their own packing so they know exactly where everything is and almost all do their own unpacking to ensure files and essential items are where they need to be.
Do you protect the floor?
As with all removals, we take care to protect floors, doors and anything else that can be easily damage during your relocation.
Are your staff trained?
Our staff are all trained in house and only experienced staff are used on commercial moves to reduce downtime for your business. Only suitably qualified staff are used to relocate and install IT equipment.
Do you carry out internal removals?
If you are moving anything internally at your premises we can supply staff and equipment for this without the added cost of a van.
Will you store my goods?
We have a secure custom built warehouse and can store your goods safely for any length of time.