5 reasons to use a BAR approved removals company

Whilst their initial quote may seem better than professional removals companies, the costs tend to run-up during the actual move. A "man and van" can often take longer to pack items, items can get broken due to incorrect packing, their vehicles can be too small for one trip and not even road worthy, to name but a few issues that can cause you additional stress and extra cost.

So we've put together these 5 reasons as to why you should use a British Association of Removers (BAR) approved removals company, instead of the "man and van" option:

1. High Standard of Service
A member of the British Association of Removers has to conform to a minimum standard of service and follow the BAR's Code of Practice. A member of the BAR's key commitments are:

• To make sure that our advertising and promotional literature is clear and not misleading.
• To provide you with a clear description, price and timetable for the work carried out.
• To offer insurance or other protection options.
• To explain clearly our liability for loss or damage, the time limit for making claims, and cancellation/postponement rights and charges.
• To provide staff who are courteous, competent, and committed to providing a high standard of service.
• To deal quickly and sympathetically with things that go wrong.
• To publicise this Code, have copies freely available and make sure our staff are trained to put it into practice. 

Obviously a "man and van" will not have any obligation to work to these high standards.

2. Professionally Trained Staff
Staff at BAR approved removals companies are professional trained - this includes both the office and outside staff.

"Man and van" outfits tend to use un-trained, casual labour. This usually means that they have no respect for your property or knowledge on how to pack items correctly for transit. Sadly this often leaves the customer with damage in the house (a broken window or scraped wall) or just broken goods.

3. Maintained Vehicles
All BAR members vehicles have to be maintained and licensed. They will also conform to emission regulations and congestion payments (if required). The vehicles will be fit for purpose and quite often have bespoke fittings and floors to facilitate home removals. A BAR member's vans will be fully insured with licensed drivers operating vehicles according tot the law.

A "man and van" might be using an unsuitable sprinter van, that is poorly maintained and a hazard on the road. It could also be uninsured - so if there is an accident or your goods are damaged in loading or transit, you may not be covered.

4. Legal Contracts
Although it would be nice is a verbal agreement was enough, when it comes to the entire possessions of your home a legal contracted is your only security. If your "mate" doesn't turn up with his van on the day of your move, you may be putting the entire chain in jeopardy.

Always have a signed agreement and written schedule.

5. Insurance
Using a BAR approved removals company ensures that you are insured and have a ombudsman to turn to if there is a problem that can not otherwise be resolved. The BAR offers a free advice and conciliation service for all customers who use one of their members - whether it's domestic, international or commercial.

More often than not, a man with a van has no insurance at all. Once the job is done and they have their cash, they can be extremely difficult to track down.

So even if you only have a few items to move, if they are of value to you, get a free quote from a BAR approved removals company.