How to Get and Compare Removals Quotes in London
Getting quotes from removal companies sounds straightforward, but there is a significant difference between a quick online estimate and a proper survey-based quotation. This guide explains what to ask for, what to check, and how to compare quotes so you end up with the right company at the right price — not just the lowest one. Taking a little extra time at the quoting stage almost always pays off on moving day.
Start with a Survey, Not an Estimate
Any removal company can give you a ballpark figure if you describe your home over the phone or fill in an online form. What you actually want is a company that will survey your property — either in person or via video call — before providing a written quotation. A survey-based quotation is binding: you know exactly what you will pay and what is included. An estimate is not.
A proper survey also lets the company identify access issues, items requiring specialist handling (pianos, antiques, large appliances), and parking requirements at both ends. Ask whether the survey includes a room-by-room assessment. A thorough surveyor will check dimensions in tight stairwells, note any furniture that needs dismantling, and flag anything that cannot go in the standard van. This 30-minute visit prevents surprises on moving day.
What to Tell Each Company When Requesting Quotes
Giving each company the same information ensures you are comparing like for like — and prevents one company from quoting a lower figure because they missed something important. At minimum, provide:
- Your current address and property type (flat, terraced, semi-detached, detached)
- Your destination address and access details (lift, stairs, parking distance from the door)
- An approximate inventory — number of rooms, any large or specialist items
- Whether you want packing services or plan to pack yourself
- Whether you need packing materials supplied
- Any items requiring special handling — pianos, antiques, artwork, or oversized furniture
- Whether you need storage, even temporarily, if there is a gap between completion dates
What a Quotation Should Include
When comparing quotes, check what is actually included in each one — the differences between seemingly similar quotes often come down to these items:
- Labour and vehicle: How many crew, what size vehicle, and whether a single trip is sufficient
- Packing materials: Are boxes, tape, and wrapping included or charged separately?
- Goods-in-transit insurance: What is the cover limit per item, and what is the excess?
- Dismantling and reassembly: Are beds and flat-pack furniture included or charged as extras?
- VAT: Check whether the quoted figure is inclusive or exclusive of VAT
How to Compare Quotes Fairly
Three quotes that look different in price may be comparing very different services. One may include full packing; another only the van and crew. Write down what each quote covers and ask each company to confirm in writing what is and is not included before you decide.
Do not choose on price alone. The cheapest quote often reflects reduced insurance cover, fewer staff, or a smaller vehicle requiring extra trips. A poorly managed move — damaged furniture, delays, unexpected charges on the day — can easily cost more than the saving made on the lowest quote.
Red Flags to Watch For
These are warning signs that a company may not be operating to professional standards:
- Quotes provided without any survey or site visit
- No written confirmation of the quotation
- Requests for full payment in cash in advance
- No clear goods-in-transit insurance details
- No physical address or landline telephone number
- Prices significantly lower than all other quotes — usually for a reason
What to Look for Before Booking
- BAR membership: The British Association of Removers (BAR) independently vets member companies for insurance, staff training, and customer protection, including deposit protection and a formal dispute resolution process.
- Written quotation after survey: Confirmed in writing before any deposit is taken.
- Clear terms and conditions: Including the cancellation policy and what happens if completion is delayed on the day.
- Reviews: Check Google and Checkatrade, focusing on how the company handles problems rather than just counting positive scores.
F Smith & Son has been carrying out house removals across London and Surrey for over 90 years. We carry out a proper survey before every quotation, and all quotes are confirmed in writing before any deposit is taken. We are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and Which? Trusted Traders. For a free quotation, contact our team. For more moving advice, visit the F Smith & Son Advice Hub.