Moving Premises

6. Hiring a Removal Contractor

Unless your company is very small, you will need professional help for the move.

6.1 Draw up a detailed specification. List what has to be moved, when, and the addresses of the old and new premises.

• Note any relevant factors such as access problems. For example no parking.
• Highlight any large or heavy items and any precious or fragile items.

6.2 Arrange joint survey visits with removal companies to the new and old premises.

• Agree loading and off-loading points and the broad timing of the move.
• Confirm that the removers will make the arrangements for parking removal vans.
• Confirm the number and type of crates required, when you need them and when you want them collected after the move.

6.3 Get detailed quotes from reputable removal companies and ask for references.

• Cost breakdowns let you compare quotes. They also help you decide how much to spend and how much to do yourself - for example, packing and unpacking.

6.4 Make sure your property is insured during the move. The removal contractor will be able to offer several different levels of cover.

6.5 Devise an outline plan, with the removal company, including a contingencies section. This will form the working move document.