The last thing you want to deal with on moving day is shady or unreliable removalists. You've heard the horror stories before -- removalists who don't show up, or who arrive hours late with a crew half the size of what you were promised. The time to find out what you can expect from a removalist service is when you are researching alternatives. On the day of your move, it's too late to step back and start asking questions designed to help you figure out if you are dealing with a reputable removalist or not.

What to Look for When Hiring a Removalist

Hiring the right removalist is a necessity if you want to enjoy a move that goes as smoothly as possible. If you want to make sure that you are hiring a top quality removalist who will show up, do the work you requested, and handle your possessions with care, you need to check the facts before making your final selection. Signs that you are hiring a reputable, professional removalist include:

? The company has been in business five or more years.

? The company has a website that conveys a professional image.

? The company can provide proof of bonding and proper insurance coverage.

? The moving trucks are company trucks, branded with the company image.

? The organization has and is willing to share client testimonial phone numbers.

? They have 1300 or 1800 phone number and a physical office location.

It is in your best interest to use this checklist when hiring a removalist. This is the best way to make sure that you are dealing only with professional removalists who are truly qualified to transport your belongings. Professional removalists with well-trained employees are going to be able to pass this checklist. Fly-by-night ?so-called? removalists will not have these credentials.

When your removalist meets the above criteria, you are not likely to experience a moving day horror story caused by choosing the wrong company. When you deal with professionals, you know they have good and reliable equipment. You can be comfortable that they do carry insurance in the event that an employee is injured on your property or that your possessions are damaged. You also know where there office is located, in case you need to track them down to deal with a problem once the move is complete.

What to Avoid When Hiring Removalist

Most people who end up experiencing a removalist nightmare realize that there were signs along the way that they might not be dealing with a legitimate company. Watch for the following signs, and avoid hiring removalists that fit this description:

? No one ever answers the phone when you call them.

? No physical address on the business card.

? Requests for payment in advance of the move.

? Requires payment in cash only.

? The company does not have a website.

? The moving truck is a pickup truck.

? They are not listed in the telephone directory

Make Smart Choices for Your Move

For ultimate protection when you move to a new home, hire a reputable removalist and take out your own transit insurance, just in case something does go wrong. Accidents can happen, even with professional removalists. There is no good reason to hire a removalist who doesn't represent a professional and legitimate business. Taking a chance by choosing the cheapest removalist you can find isn't worth the potential cost in the long run.