Quotes from removal companies are hard to compare if each one received a different description of the load. Prepare a single brief and send it to every candidate.

Describe the load and the access

List the large items with approximate dimensions and photos. State the floors, whether there is a lift, the distance to where the vehicle can stop and whether packing is needed. List fragile and valuable items separately rather than just writing “boxes”.

Clarify the limits of liability

Ask for written terms on loading, waiting time, storage and damage. For an international move, check with the company and the relevant authorities which rules apply to your shipment. Do not treat a verbal estimate as the final price.

How to compare quotes against one inventory

Send the same version of the list with large items, packing, addresses and access conditions. Ask companies to show what is included and what surcharges may apply. Request a separate explanation for waiting time, changing the date and storage. Do not assume two quotes cover the same work just because both say “removal”. If a large item is added or the floor changes after the quote, update the brief. A saved version of the inventory shows exactly which volume the quoted price referred to.

How to prepare for loading and delivery day

Mark items that travel separately, stay behind or need special handling. Label boxes with clear room names and without unnecessary personal details. Appoint one person to answer questions at loading and one to receive the delivery, if they are different people. Agree how the condition and number of items will be recorded. Check the rules for moving specific items across borders separately with the relevant bodies; an ordinary household inventory does not prove that special requirements for a shipment have been met.

What to check

  • Check the list of included services.
  • State any time restrictions on access.
  • Agree on extra stops separately.
  • Keep the inventory and a record of the items' condition.

Example situation

If the lift is too small for the wardrobe, the amount of carrying by hand changes. It is best to share door and furniture measurements before the price is calculated.

Next step

An identical brief lets you compare the actual service, not two prices that only look similar.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.