Should I use a Broker

At Albany Removals we always recommend that customers contact us, directly for a quote and to arrange a removal, rather than through a broker service. A quick internet search for a removal company will provide a list of sponsored sites many for brokers, before the actual professional removal companies appear. Booking this way can sometimes be problematic for a number of reasons.

Firstly, brokers may not have the same level of expertise as a removal company. This is because they are not the people who do the removals, they are just looking up other removal companies or ‘man with a van’ in the area. This means that many of the broker companies may not be able to provide the same level of service.

They will usually arrange a company to come on the day of the removal and you will not have been able to chat with the company or van driver before to check your needs can be met fully. Some brokers are more diligent and will ask the customer to list all the items to be moved to estimate the size of vehicle and staff needed.; others will just send a van and driver without considering this. Nor, will they consider whether the movers have experience and protective covers etc. At Albany Removals we have attended removals where we have been unable to move into a property on arrival, because the seller’s removal company cannot meet the needs of the job – arranged by a less than diligent broker.

Albany Removals has been operating for over 35 years and we know that it is important to view the property before we can judge the number and type of lorries needed and how many staff to send. For smaller moves we offer a WhatsApp video viewing and chat to the customers via phone, but larger moves we really need to complete an in-person quote. There is advice and guidance that needs to be given too, to ensure the day runs smoothly. At Albany we pride ourselves on our personal touch. We are easily contactable via phone at any time, if you should have a query or need advice.

Sometimes companies are booked from outside the area, so don’t have a local knowledge. Understanding the local geography can help removals; consider things such as narrow windy roads, rush hour traffic, low bridges, parking issues. Albany is a local Nottinghamshire company, who have worked across the county and beyond.

Secondly, brokers may not have the same level of accountability as a removal company. Remember, what you are paying for is simply for them to find and book a company or van driver. If something goes wrong, such as the removal company or driver doesn’t turn up, breaks some property, isn’t able to fit everything in their vehicle etc. the broker will just refer you back to the removal company. If you meet with a company directly, you will minimise the likelihood of these problems and can be sure your company is appropriate, professional and insured.

Thirdly, brokers won’t always be able to show cost and service comparisons, so you cannot judge whether you are getting the service you want at a competitive price.

Finally, brokers may charge additional fees for their services, after all they, need to make a profit themselves. This will be added to the overall cost of the move, making it more expensive than if you had booked directly. Some unscrupulous firms will book inexperienced, uninsured (for removals) drivers and charge the price of a professional, fully equipped and experienced removal company like Albany.

Local firms do know each other. Although we are competing for jobs we also work together to support each other, if needed, with some moves, to ensure customers needs are met if problems arise, such as last minute changes to the moving schedule.

It is important to note that not all broker services are problematic, and some may be able to provide a valuable service if you are too busy to organise a company yourself. However, it is important to do your research and carefully consider the pros and cons before deciding whether to use a broker service or book directly with a removal company. In the Nottinghamshire region, including Rushcliffe, Beeston, West Bridgford, Ruddington etc. you are well supplied with professional companies. Albany Removal will be happy to provide a personal service, just give us a ring.
Don’t forget to download our hints and tips leaflet, in documents, for useful advice about removals.