Making the Move: Essential Questions to Ask Your Man and Van Driver

With hundreds of man and van companies in the UK, how do you know you are choosing the best moving company for your moving day? By this time, you’ve probably found a few service providers with great offers. You’ve browsed through the Internet reading countless customer reviews and ratings but you still want to know these companies better.

Before you choose who to hire, here are some delivery driver interview questions you can ask them yourself!

1. How long have you been in the business?

This might be the most telling information you can get from your prospect mover. If they were able to stay in business for several years and be one of the most reputable companies for moving even with a lot of competitors, that means they provide excellent customer service.

Ask if they’re properly licensed as well. Do they comply with the law? Do they have regularly trained staff or do they outsource workers? Do they have a clean driving record and reliable driving experience? Are they a member of legitimate associations like the British Association of Removers (BAR)? Being affiliated with official organisations means the company has achieved high standards of professionalism and service.

2. What is included in your quote?

You don’t want surprise charges, do you? 

It’s always best to have a clear knowledge of the package inclusions, as well as the fees that could pile up during the move. It could be a “heavy item” surcharge, congestion charge zone fees, or additional fuel expenses. Remember to always ask your mover about these costs and any other additional charge you may incur. 

It’s also important to clarify if the packing service includes dismantling and purchasing of packing materials, as well as organising permits. Read about professional man and van company services here.

3. When do I pay?

Once you have a clear idea of the moving costs, you should know when and how to pay. Man and van companies have different payment terms and methods–just choose what works best for you. 

Movers usually offer insurance coverages, so better enquire about that to keep your items secure.

4. What are the DON’Ts of your man and van services?

Are there items that can’t be in their vehicle? Most of the time, local and interstate movers prohibit flammables, paints, acids, and corrosives. Some also have weight restrictions. So before you hire a house man and van company, check first if they will allow your stuff loaded and moved to your new location. 

5. How big are your vehicles?

Two of the most common moving fails are damaged furniture and delicate possessions breaking. Wardrobes are usually a headache, followed by fragile items like vases or mirrors.

It’s essential to know what kind of vans and lorries the man and van service provider is using so you can rest assured that your household items will fit inside and won’t get any damage. 

To get an idea on how moving vehicles are sized, here is our van size guide. 

6. How long will it take to finish the move?

There are several factors that can affect the duration of the move. It can last days or even weeks depending on the weather, complexity of the job, distance, and holidays. 

Roadworks can also cause delays especially if the movers have to take a longer route. Aside from these factors, the number of items including those that need dismantling and rebuilding can determine the time it will take to finish relocating. 

7. When will you conduct a home removals survey?

A survey is one of the most critical events, pre-move. The man and van company can look at the items personally to come up with the best procedure for you. These professionals can assess first-hand which items are the easiest and hardest to pack and unload. That way, you and your man and van driver can be on the same page and they can decide on their schedule so they can give the best deal for you.

Some man and van companies also offer virtual home man and van surveys, so if this is something that sounds appealing to you, ask your man and van company if this is possible.

8. Do you offer storage services?

A lot of man and van companies offer storage facilities as well. Are you decluttering or downsizing? Is the garage at your new place still under renovation? In case you have items you can’t move or let go just yet, you can ask the company if they can store them for you. 

9. Do you need help?

“Is there anything you need to know? Do you need help?”

By asking these questions, you’re not just making the task easier for the movers. It’s also for you, too. If there’s a way for you to make the process less expensive or less of a hassle, don’t hesitate to volunteer!

It’s never a bad thing to ask questions. The more you know, the better. You’d want as few problems to arise as possible. The more you communicate with the van hire service delivery driver and team, the fewer difficulties you will face. 

Once you choose a man and van firm, keep the cooperation and coordination going. That way, your move will be less stressful for everyone. 

An important tip: make sure that all provisions are official and in writing. Good luck to your moving day!

To find the best man and van companies for you, check out WhatManAndVan’s’ list of partners within the UK. We have cheap man and van in Birmingham, Manchester, and many more locations which you could check out. All you have to do is enter your postcode and find the best movers near you. After you enter your man and van needs and requirements in our search platform, we can match you up with the most reputable man and van companies that can deliver the service you need, including moving, storage, and packing services. You can browse and compare free quotes in no time!