Review the contract carefully before signing with a removalist to help you move house. The terms and conditions outline the services provided, the costs involved, and the responsibilities of both parties. It helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures your move goes smoothly. 

Removalists, also known as movers, are professionals who specialize in packing, loading, transporting, and unloading household and office goods. Their services typically involve providing boxes, wrapping furniture, loading the truck, driving to the new location, and unloading. Removalists have the proper equipment and training to handle the physical aspects of relocating safely and efficiently.

Common terms and conditions

  • Services offered – Most removalists will provide a detailed list of their services, specifying inclusions in the quoted price. It usually covers packing and unpacking, disassembly and reassembly of furniture, use of packing materials, and transportation. Extra services like storage and cleaning may cost extra.
  • Deposits – A deposit, typically 25-30% of the total quote, is required at booking to secure the dates. The balance is due on a moving day, often payable by cash, credit card, or bank transfer. The deposit is non-refundable if the client cancels.
  • Insurance – Removalists should have insurance to cover damages or loss of belongings during transit and storage. There are usually limits on high-value items like artwork and jewelry. Check if your possessions are covered or get additional insurance.
  • Cancellation policy – Look for how much notice is required to cancel or reschedule, and whether you’ll be charged if cancelling with inadequate notice. It is usually 7-14 days.
  • Packing responsibilities – Check who is responsible for packing items into boxes the client or the removalists will pack everything for you, which could cost extra. Clients usually still need to pack clothes and valuables themselves.
  • Delays – Removalists commit to arriving during a specified time window, but delays happen due to mechanical issues, traffic, or weather. See if the contract provides compensation for extended delays.
  • Storage – If you need storage before or after the move, the contract should cover storage costs, storage location, insurance during storage, and how long storage is allowed.

Key considerations for removalists

The road distance is approximately 300km and 3.5 hours of drive time. Costs take this into account. Apartment buildings in Canberra may have special requirements for tenants. Fees may apply for use of elevators and other facilities. Storage facilities may be located in Sydney or Canberra. Clarify where your belongings will be stored if required. Who is responsible for cleaning the property after moving out of Sydney and arriving in Canberra? The removalists may offer this service for a fee.

The terms and conditions of a removalist contract seem complex, but understanding them is crucial before committing to a service provider. Always check the fine print for any hidden costs and responsibilities. For interstate moves like removalists Sydney to Canberra, communicate any specific requirements clearly with the removalists. And don’t hesitate to negotiate on terms if you’re uncertain. With a thorough contract and reliable removalists, your moving experience will hopefully go off without a hitch.

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Monday, Mar 24, 2025