Ask the Experts – Removals to France FAQs

A Move in the Right Direction

Relocating abroad is not rocket science, but it does take planning. Tim Davies runs through the basics and shares some handy tips for a worry-free house move.

Q. How can I make sure that my belongings are insured?

A. Removal companies may offer an optional insurance charge on top of their quoted removal price and it is up to the customer to take this extra cover. Typically, the insurance cover offered by a company will not be new-for-old. Age, wear and tear will be taken into account in the event of loss or  damage. You may be able to arrange new-for-old cover, but you’ll need to check this with your chosen company. It’s important to note that there will be a maximum cover limit – this is usually around £50,000. It would be worth checking this with the firm prior to accepting its quote and signing on the dotted line.

Q. Will I be able to track the whereabouts of my items during transit?

A. Most removal companies will use tracking devices on their vehicles. This enables both the company and the customer to know the whereabouts of their items and also gives movers a good indication of when their possessions are likely to arrive at their new home. Not all removal companies offer this service, so make sure to check this with your chosen firm.

Q. How does subcontracting work?

A. Some removal companies will subcontract work if they do not have the staff available, or a large enough vehicle for a customer‘s chosen moving date. Companies that do not subcontract may still arrange for help from another firm – to unload items for example.

Q. Will I need to put down a deposit for my move?

A. Paying a deposit towards your removal will depend on the removers‘ payment policy. Some companies will ask for a deposit upon booking, while others won‘t.

Q. Will I need to provide or arrange accommodation for the removal team once in France?

A. Most large removal trucks are fitted with sleeper pods fully kitted out with mattresses, lighting and power sockets, so there should be no need to  provide accommodation for the removal team – unless you want to, of course. If the company has assigned a smaller truck without sleeper pods to your removal, the team will use their overnight allowance (paid for by the company) to book a hotel.

Q. Do we need to be at the property when the removal team arrive? What happens if we can’t make it in time?

A. Being present when the removal team arrive is always helpful. However if you have provided them with keys to your property and provided the administration staff with clear instructions on how to gain access, along with a list of the items to be removed, the team should be able to carry out the removal without you present.

Alternatively, you could always arrange for a family member, friend or even a neighbour to be present during the removal to oversee proceedings.

Q. What recourse do I have in the event of damage?

A. You will need to check these details with your removers, but as a general rule, most companies will give you a window of around a week after the removal to report any damage. After this seven-day cut-off, the removal firm should provide you with a claims form to complete. The claim will then be passed on to its insurance company to be dealt with.

Tim Davies is the Managing Director of Cranbury Removals, which provides professional removal services throughout the UK and Europe.

For more assistance on preparing to move home, please do not hesitate to contact Cranbury Removals.