A lot of people are surprised to know that the responsibility does not shift entirely to the provider when hiring a removal service. Although professional removalists in Australia interstate handle the heavy lifting and transport, homeowners still carry major responsibilities, before and during the move. A successful relocation is actually a shared effort, from providing accurate information about access and volume to understanding insurance coverage and packing obligations.
Why Removal Is Also Your Responsibility
1. You Own the Goods
Although removalists will transport your belongings, they don’t take ownership of them. This means that you are responsible for declaring fragile, high value, or restricted items.
2. Accurate Information
If you fail to mention stairs, narrow access, long carry distances or underestimate volume, extra costs may apply. That is because the provider will rely on the information that you have given.
3. Insurance Gaps
You should know that basic carrier liability is limited. So, if you don’t arrange appropriate transit insurance, you will not be fully covered for damage or loss.
4. Packing Standards
When you pack items yourself and something breaks due to poor packing, lots of companies will not accept any liability.
5. Property Access and Permissions
You should also be responsible for organising lift bookings, parking permits, strata approvals, or notifying building management.
6. Contract Terms
Note that removalists must exercise reasonable care, but their obligations are defined according to the contract that you have signed.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid when Dealing with Removals
1. Booking Too Late
In Australia, good removalists get booked out weeks in advance. This is especially the case during peak seasons. When you leave it too late, you are going to limit your options and increase the costs.
2. Choosing According to Price Alone
Note that it is not always the cheapest quote that is always the best. Sometimes, when you choose extremely low prices, there may be hidden fees, inexperienced staff, or minimal insurance coverage.
3. Not Checking Insurance
Lots of people assume that their items are already fully covered, which are actually the opposite. So, you have to confirm what transit insurance will include and whether you need additional coverage.
4. Underestimating Volume
If you have miscalculated how much you are going to move, you could be charged extra on the day. You can avoid this from happening by undergoing proper pre-move assessment to avoid surprises.
5. Poor Labelling and Packing
When the boxes you are going to move are unlabelled, it can slow down unloading and increase risks of breakage. Thus, you must consider fragile items to be marked clearly and wrapped properly.
6. Ignoring Access Issues
When you ignore access to narrow driveways, stairs, lifts, or parking restrictions, it can cause you delays and extra charges. So, inform your movers ahead of time.
7. No Written Agreement
You must get a written quote that details its inclusions, exclusions, and delivery timelines.
If you want a carefully planned home removal, contact Ready Movers today. You can also reach out to us if you have relevant questions about removalists in Australia interstate.
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