Are Removalists Liable for Damage?

Moving interstate should not be a daunting experience. Many people eagerly await the day to move as they are excited to live in a new city, meet new people and see new places. To ensure this level of enthusiasm does not decline during the moving process, it is important that you move your belongings in a careful manner.

Remember to engage a professional and reliable interstate removalist. At Dawson Moving & Storage, we are proud to provide top quality removalist services at reasonable and transparent prices. As a member of the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA), we abide strict requirements that have been recommended by the industry.

In our blog, Top 5 Tips for Hiring the Best Removalists in Canberra, we shared our view on what makes a great removal company. To ensure your belongings are transported carefully, and arrive undamaged, consider the following tips.

Ask Questions Until You Are Satisfied

Prior to engaging a professional removalist, ask questions. Ask them about the removalists’ experience, their equipment and tools, the safety features in their truck, their ability to pack items and store them carefully, their scope of liability, their insurance cover, their security processes and much more. Once you are satisfied, you should request a quotation and ensure that you have carefully read the terms and conditions. Any negotiations and discussions should be in writing.

Supervise The Removal And Dispatch Process

Prior to the day for removal, photograph and catalogue your belongings. As the removalists commence the removal process, ensure that you have someone supervising the process. If you suspect mishandling of your belongings, call it out promptly. Remember to be kind and reasonable as the removal process does involve manual labour. A professional interstate removalist company will understand your concerns and will ensure you feel comfortable throughout the entire process.

Obtain Appropriate And Adequate Insurance Cover

The removalist company will help you choose the most appropriate and adequate insurance cover. Ask questions about the insurance cover and take time to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). If you have further questions, call the insurance provider and clarify any concerns in writing. Remember, do not undervalue the level of insurance cover as a short term saving on the premium might lead to a greater cost come claim time.

Check Your Belongings At Arrival And Raise Any Issues Promptly

Following the transportation of your belongings and its dispatch into your new property, check your belongings against the photographs and catalogue you made earlier. If your suspect any missing items or damage, raise these issues promptly in writing to the removalist company.

A professional interstate removalist should not damage your belongings during pick-up, transit and dispatch. If you do notice damage, tell the removalist immediately so that it can be assessed. Remember to be reasonable with the removalists as the removal process does require manual handling and long-distance haulage. If the damage is significant, write to the removalist, add photos, and send a claim to the removalist or the insurer.

If you are planning to move and want help obtaining the right insurance cover, speak to us for general assistance by dialing 1800 066 846. We can also help you with all other removal-related queries.

Have you had recently moved interstate? Describe some of the positive attributes of your removalist company?