Understanding Your Removals Quote: What’s Included and What’s Not?
Having trouble understanding your removals quote?
Moving house, right up there when it comes to stress, can feel like an endless to-do list, and one of the most confusing parts of the whole process is deciphering your removal company’s quote.
At first glance, it might seem like a bunch of numbers and industry terms, but the truth is, not all quotes are created equal and many struggle to understand the jargon.
Some companies include packing, storage, and insurance as standard, while others charge extra.
Knowing what’s covered (and what isn’t) helps you budget correctly and avoid those nasty “surprise” costs on moving day.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key things to look for in your quote so you can feel confident and prepared when you book with a reliable mover like GoodMove.
Table of Contents
The Basics: What You’re Actually Paying For
At the heart of every house removal quote is the cost of transporting your belongings from A to B.
This generally includes the van, the fuel and the removal crew’s packing time.
But don’t assume that’s the whole picture.
Some firms quote only for the actual move itself, while others include extras such as furniture disassembly and reassembly or protective covers.
Make sure you read the breakdown carefully so you know what “the basics” mean with your chosen provider.
A company such as GoodMove prides itself on clarity, so don’t hesitate to ask for an itemised list that spells out exactly where your money is going.
Packing Services: Convenience vs. DIY
One of the most significant variables in a removals quote is whether packing is included.
Many removal firms, including BAR-accredited companies, offer full or partial packing services.
A full pack means the removal team will handle everything; they will wrap, box, and label everything for you, saving you hours of stress.
With a partial pack, there are some things you, as the client, want to pack yourself. Of course, if you’d rather pack your own home, you can cut costs by removing this service.
However, just be aware that self-packing generally affects your insurance cover (more on that later).
The key is deciding whether convenience, speed, hard work, and reduced stress are worth the extra expense of leaving it to the professionals, or whether you’d rather take the DIY route.
Insurance: Don’t Overlook the Small Print
It’s easy to skim past the insurance section, but it’s one of the most critical parts of your removals quote.
A reputable company should offer goods-in-transit insurance to protect your belongings in the event of accidental damage or loss.
Some even include it as standard, while others make it optional at an additional cost.
Some also offer further cover for those items that are of high value.
Check whether there’s a claims limit and whether certain items (such as antiques or high-value electronics) require separate cover.
For further guidance, the Financial Ombudsman Service provides clear advice on consumer protection.
Companies like GoodMove, which are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR), will always be upfront about their cover levels, so you know exactly what’s protected.
Additionally, as GoodMove is a long-time member of the BAR, should you have any concerns at all, you have someone to turn to with regards to dispute resolution.
Hidden Extras: Where Costs Creep In
The phrase “hidden charges” can strike fear into anyone’s wallet, and with removals, it usually relates to things like long carry distances, difficult access, parking permits, or last-minute changes.
If your property has awkward access, stairs, or no lift, some companies may charge more.
Equally, if you forget to mention an oversized piano or a garden shed full of tools, that might not be included in the original quote.
To avoid any nasty shocks, it is imperative to walk the company through your exact circumstances during the home survey stage. Leaving anything out is just going to cause problems on the move day.
A professional mover like GoodMove will usually carry out an in-person or virtual assessment before confirming your final price.
Storage Options: Temporary Homes for Your Belongings
Not every move is a straightforward transfer of belongings.
Often, the expected “out of one house, straight into another” isn’t doable.
There is a solution to this issue: short-term storage.
There are numerous reasons why a direct in and out might prove impossible on move day. Perhaps you might have to wait for contracts to complete, or you are downsizing, and the smaller home cannot accommodate all your furniture.
You may even be moving abroad and need to sort out somewhere to stay before your belongings arrive. Whatever your need for temporary storage may be, GoodMove is here to help.
While many removalists partner with third-party storage facilities, at GoodMove we have our own storage warehouse, which means your belongings are collected, stored and delivered by us and us alone.
Check with your mover whether storage fees, access costs, and insurance are included in your removals quote or are add-ons.
Having this flexibility can be a real lifesaver if your moving timeline doesn’t go exactly to plan.
Specialist Items: When Your Move Needs Extra Care
Suppose you own delicate or oversized items like artwork, antiques, pianos, chandeliers, or large, bulky gym equipment.
In that case, these usually require extra handling and may not be covered in a standard quote.
Specialist crating, lifting equipment, or additional manpower could be needed, all of which impact the final cost.
Ask up front whether the company has experience with such items; many reputable movers are well-equipped, but you’ll want to be sure before moving day.
GoodMove, for example, has trained staff and equipment to handle unusual items with the care they deserve.
Final Thoughts: Transparency Is Key
The bottom line? A removals quote should be clear, detailed, and leave no grey areas.
By knowing precisely what’s included and spotting where extras might apply, you can budget realistically and avoid last-minute surprises.
If you feel a company is vague or reluctant to explain charges, that’s a huge red flag.
By knowing what’s included and what’s not, you can plan with confidence, avoid hidden costs, and make moving home far less stressful.
Your quote isn’t just a number; it’s a roadmap for one of the biggest days of your life.
Ready to Make Your Move with Confidence?
Moving home doesn’t have to be complicated.
With GoodMove, you’ll benefit from transparent pricing, practical advice, and the reassurance that your belongings are handled with care every step of the way.
Whether you’re after full packing support, secure storage, or straightforward transport, GoodMove keeps the process simple and stress-free.
Contact us today and take the guesswork out of moving so you can start your journey with confidence.
Looking for more tips to help you prepare? Explore our moving guides designed to make life easier: