Moving house? Whether you’re relocating across Sydney, heading up the coast to Brisbane, or downsizing from a suburban home to a sleek city apartment, one thing is universal: hiring professional movers in Sydney can make all the difference. coordinating, and even finding a reliable removalist van for hire, it’s enough to turn anyone’s calendar into chaos.
And in the middle of that chaos stands one key decision that can make or break your move: hiring a removalist.
Now, not all removalists are created equal. From fly-by-night operations to gold-standard professionals, there’s a wide spectrum out there. So how do you separate the pros from the problematic? You ask the right questions. But not just any questions, crucial ones. The kind that gives you insights into reliability, transparency, professionalism, and real-world readiness.
Let’s walk you through seven essential questions you must ask before signing on the dotted line. If you’re specifically looking for a trusted Removalist in North Sydney, make sure they tick off all these boxes.
Let’s get right into it.
1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Accredited?
Let’s start with the basics. A professional removalist should be:
- Licensed to operate in Australia, especially for interstate moves.
- Insured, which includes both public liability and transit insurance.
- Ideally accredited by a body like the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA).
Why does this matter?
Because accidents happen. Even with the most experienced team, there’s always a chance that a sofa gets dented, a glass table cracks, or someone is injured during a heavy lift. Without proper insurance, you could be left footing the bill.
What to ask:
- Can you provide your license and insurance documents?
- Are you AFRA-accredited?
Red flag: If they avoid the question, downplay insurance, or say “you won’t need it,” it’s time to look elsewhere.
2. What’s Included in the Quote, and What’s Not?
You’ve probably seen ads promising “Removals from $99!” Sounds great… until the bill hits $900 because they charged for stairs, heavy items, travel time, and even a cup of tea.
Many removalists quote low initially but pile on extras later. This is where transparency becomes everything.
What to ask:
- Is the quote fixed or hourly?
- Are there extra charges for stairs, elevators, long carries, or weekend moves?
- Are packing materials or protective wraps included?
Pro tip: Ask for a detailed quote in writing before committing. It should break down labour, truck hire, fuel, tolls, and any additional services like packing/unpacking.
Bonus tip: Ask about cancellation or rescheduling fees, life happens, and you’ll want to know where you stand.
3. How Experienced Are Your Movers With My Type of Move?
Moving a two-bedroom apartment in the city is very different from relocating a five-bedroom family home with a grand piano and antique dining set. And moving across state lines? That’s another game altogether.
So don’t assume every removalist is suited for every job.
What to ask:
- How long have you been in the business?
- Have you done similar moves (size, location, complexity)?
- Do you have experience with high-rise apartments, narrow staircases, or heritage properties?
Why this matters: You want movers who are confident, not guessing. Someone who has dealt with tight hallways, tricky driveways, and the logistical quirks of Australian cities.
4. Do You Provide Packing and Unpacking Services?
Some people love packing. Most people… don’t. A packing service can be a lifesaver if you’re time-poor, overwhelmed, or simply allergic to bubble wrap.
Many professional movers in Sydney offer packing and unpacking services, and if you need a removalist van for hire, ask if it’s included in the package.
What to ask:
- Do you offer packing and unpacking services?
- Are your packers trained or subcontracted?
- Do you supply boxes, tape, and protective wrapping?
If you’re planning a DIY move or need extra flexibility, ask your professional movers in Sydney if they offer a removalist van for hire.
Also, ask If you’re packing yourself, will they still insure the items? Some companies only insure professionally packed items.
Tip for families: Unpacking services are a blessing when you’re juggling kids, pets, and a million other things.
5. What Happens If Something Gets Damaged?
Here’s the million-dollar question, literally, in some cases.
You’ve moved your cherished dining table, a family heirloom that’s survived generations… only to find it scratched, dented, or worse. Now what?
This is where a removalist’s claims process comes into sharp focus.
What to ask:
- What’s your process for handling damage claims?
- Are items covered during transit and handling?
- Is there an excess or cap on claim payouts?
Key tip: Read their terms and conditions before you book. If their insurance doesn’t cover accidental damage or requires you to jump through a hundred hoops, that’s a red flag.
Some removalists go above and beyond, offering additional cover or partnering with insurance providers. Choose the one that values your belongings as much as you do.
6. Can I Read Recent Reviews or Speak to Past Customers?
Look, every company can throw up a bunch of glowing testimonials on their website. But real-world reviews, especially those on third-party sites, paint a clearer picture.
Check platforms like Google Reviews, ProductReview.com.au, or even community Facebook groups. And don’t just look at the star rating. Read the comments.
What to ask:
- Can I see recent reviews?
- Have you got any client references I can speak to?
- Do you have before-and-after move photos?
Watch for patterns. A one-off complaint might be an anomaly. But if five people mention broken furniture or rude staff? There’s your answer.
Also, see how the company responds to bad reviews. A professional outfit will always aim to resolve issues respectfully.
7. What Sets You Apart From Other Removalists?
This is your wildcard question, the one that puts them on the spot. You’re not just looking for a generic answer like “we’re fast and reliable.” You want to know their point of difference.
Do they:
- Offer eco-friendly moving options?
- Use GPS tracking on trucks?
- Have a concierge-style service?
- Provide flexible storage add-ons?
What to ask:
- What makes your service different?
- Why should I trust you with my move?
Great removalists will shine here. They’ll show genuine passion for their work, a deep knowledge of logistics, and perhaps even stories of tricky moves they’ve handled with care.
This question also gives you a feel for their customer service attitude, and that’s half the battle.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Moving Day Smoother
While we’re here, let’s touch on a few bonus tips that Aussies often overlook:
- Book early, especially if moving on a weekend or end-of-month (peak times).
- Label everything, and keep an essentials box for your first night.
- Keep valuables with you, documents, jewellery, medicines.
- Do a final walkthrough of the old house before locking up.
And finally, keep communication open. Good removalists will call ahead, keep you updated, and check in during the move. That two-way communication makes all the difference.
If you’re planning a DIY move or need extra flexibility, ask your professional movers in Sydney if they offer a removalist van for hire.
Final Thoughts: Take the Time to Ask, It’s Worth It
Hiring a removalist isn’t just about who has the cheapest quote. It’s about trust. It’s about knowing your furniture, memories, and peace of mind are in good hands.
Asking the right questions helps you see past the polished marketing and get to the real heart of the service. So take this guide with you. Use it as a checklist. Print it, bookmark it, or even ask each question in an email.
For those considering a self-move, there are also various removalist van for hire options available in Sydney, allowing you to manage your move independently if you prefer.
Need a Trusted Removalist in Australia?
If you’re after a reliable, experienced, and genuinely stress-free moving experience, EasyGoing Removalist has your back. Whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, their team brings professionalism, transparency, and care to every job.
From fully insured services to optional packing/unpacking add-ons, they’ve built their reputation on trust and consistency. And yes, they’ll happily answer all the questions above, honestly and clearly.
Get in touch with EasyGoing Removalist today and take the hassle out of your next move. Because moving should feel exciting, not exhausting.
