Choosing a Removals Company: What to Look For

Don't Just Go for the Cheapest Quote

We get it — moving is expensive and you want to save where you can. But the cheapest removals quote isn't always the best value. Uninsured, unregistered operators can offer rock-bottom prices, but if something goes wrong — damaged furniture, a scratched wall, items going missing — you've got no comeback.

Get at least two or three quotes and compare what's included. Does the price include blankets and straps? Is there a fuel surcharge? Are they charging by the hour or a fixed price? A slightly higher quote from a professional, insured company is usually money well spent.

Check They're Properly Insured

This is the single most important thing to check. Any legitimate removals company should have goods-in-transit insurance (which covers your belongings while they're on the van) and public liability insurance (which covers damage to property).

At Herts Man With A Van, we carry full goods-in-transit insurance and public liability cover. We're also proud members of the Road Haulage Association and the UK House Clearance Association, which means we're held to industry standards.

Don't be afraid to ask for proof of insurance — any reputable company will be happy to provide it. If they can't or won't, that's a massive red flag.

Read Real Reviews — Not Just Testimonials

Anyone can put glowing testimonials on their website. What matters are independent reviews on platforms like Google, Trustpilot, and Facebook. Look at the overall rating, but also read recent reviews to get a sense of what the experience is actually like.

Pay attention to how the company responds to negative reviews. Every business gets the occasional complaint, but how they handle it says a lot about their professionalism.

We're proud of our Google reviews — they're from real customers and we respond to every single one. Have a look and see what people say about working with us.

Ask the Right Questions Before Booking

Before you commit, ask these questions:

• Are you fully insured? What does your insurance cover? • Is the quote a fixed price or hourly rate? • What happens if the move takes longer than expected? • Do you provide blankets, straps, and trolleys? • Can you handle stairs, narrow doorways, or difficult access? • What's your cancellation policy? • How do you handle fragile or high-value items?

A professional company will answer all of these confidently and transparently. If you get vague answers or feel pressured, look elsewhere.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

In over eight years of operating in Hertfordshire, we've heard plenty of horror stories from customers who've been let down by other companies. Here are the red flags:

• No insurance or unwilling to provide proof — walk away immediately. • A quote that's dramatically lower than everyone else — there's usually a reason. • No fixed address or professional branding — legitimate companies aren't hiding. • Cash-only payments with no receipt — this suggests they're not registered for tax. • Last-minute price increases on the day — a reputable company gives you a fixed quote and sticks to it. • No reviews or only reviews on their own website — check Google and Facebook.

A genuine, professional removals company will have clear branding, insurance documentation, visible reviews, and a transparent pricing structure.

Why Local Matters

Choosing a local removals company has real practical benefits. We're based in Welwyn Garden City, which means we know every road, estate, and potential parking challenge across Hertfordshire. We know which council requires parking permits, which roads are tricky for vans, and which areas have restricted access.

Local also means lower costs — we're not travelling for an hour just to reach you, so you're not paying for dead mileage. And if anything ever needs following up after the move, we're right here.

If you're moving within Hertfordshire or from Hertfordshire to anywhere in the UK, give us a call on 07479 645823. We'll give you an honest quote, we're fully insured, and we'll look after your move as if it were our own.