Moving house is stressful enough without the added anxiety of potential damage to your furniture. Your valuable pieces—whether it’s an antique wardrobe or a newly purchased sofa—can sometimes suffer damage during transit. Understanding what steps to take if a moving company damages your furniture is crucial. In this blog, we’ll guide you through what you should discuss with your removalists beforehand and what actions to take if your furniture sustains any damage during the move.
Discuss Insurance Coverage Before Hiring A Moving Company
Before deciding on a moving company, understand their insurance options clearly. While it may seem like an additional cost, insurance provides peace of mind and can save you from unexpected expenses in the event of an accident. Not all moving companies offer the same type of coverage, so you should know what’s included before signing any contracts.
Key Points to Ask About Insurance:
- Do they offer comprehensive insurance that covers the full value of your furniture?
- Is the insurance included in the overall cost, or is it an additional charge?
- Does their insurance cover accidental damage, theft, or loss of items?
- Are there any items (like antiques or fragile items) that might be excluded from coverage?
Clarify the Process for Handling Damaged Goods
If your furniture is damaged during the move, you’ll want to know exactly how the company plans to handle the situation. Every moving company should have a clear process for reporting damages and seeking compensation. Clarifying this can make the claims process smoother if anything goes wrong.
Steps You Should Know:
- Ask the company to explain its damage resolution process.
- Confirm the timeframe within which you must report any damages.
- Enquire whether they offer repair services or replacement compensation.
- Find out what documents or evidence (like photos of the damage) they may require when you file a claim.
Take Photos of Your Furniture Before the Move
One of the simplest yet most effective things you can do before moving day is photographing your furniture. These photos will be crucial evidence if anything is damaged during the move. Make sure the pictures are clear and show the condition of each item from multiple angles.
Best Practices for Taking Pre-Move Photos:
- Photograph all furniture pieces, including smaller items like chairs or lamps.
- Take close-up shots of any pre-existing scratches or wear to differentiate from new damage.
- Ensure the photos are time-stamped to serve as proof in case of a dispute.
- Store the photos safely or upload them to a cloud service for easy access.
Always Review the Moving Agreement Carefully
Review the moving contract carefully before finalising your booking with the moving company. This document will outline the company’s policies regarding damages and their liability. Ensure you understand what you’re agreeing to, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if any part of the contract is unclear.
Key Points to Look for in a Moving Agreement:
- Liability limitations: Is the company responsible for full replacement value, or is it capped at a lower amount?
- Exclusions: Are any items not covered by their insurance or liability policy?
- Claim process details: What is required from you if you need to file a claim?
- Cancellation or dispute resolution clauses: What happens if you need to cancel the service or if there’s a disagreement?
Contact Us for Stress-Free Furniture Removals
At Brisbane Moving, we understand that relocating can be stressful, especially when it comes to moving valuable furniture. We offer comprehensive furniture removal services to ensure your belongings are transported with the utmost care. Whether you’re moving locally or interstate, our accredited team provides efficient, reliable service. Get in touch today for a free quote or to learn more about our services!
