Key Takeaways
- Not all movers are professional—some lack experience or reliability, so it’s essential to check reviews, credentials, and services before hiring.
- Moving yourself isn’t always cheaper. Hidden costs like truck hire, fuel, equipment, and time off work can make DIY moves more expensive.
- Hiring movers doesn’t mean no preparation—packing and planning ahead are still crucial unless you pay for pre-packing services.
- Quotes vary between companies, and hidden fees can apply, so always ask detailed questions about pricing and inclusions.
- Basic insurance may not cover all damages; additional coverage is often needed for full protection during handling and transport.
Here at Brisk Transport, we have been helping families move for over 30 years. During our time in the industry, we have heard a lot of misconceptions about moving companies that are far from the truth.
Moving companies exist to provide a professional service to you, to assist with your relocation and ultimately reduce the stress of moving by applying their expertise.
We debunk the most common misconceptions all while giving you valuable tips on how to choose the right moving company and set your move up for success.
Myth 1: Truck & Workers Does NOT Mean a Professional Removalist
This is one of the worst misconceptions that can really get you into a pickle. People often think that if a moving company provides workers and a truck, they are professionals… think again!
We have heard plenty of horror stories in the industry, including movers not showing up on the day of the move or even people having their items taken hostage until they are forced to pay double the quoted price. Not the stress you need when moving!
Plus, if you want your items and household to be taken care of, experienced professionals are essential. Experienced movers will know how to pack a truck, move your items, and unload your items efficiently and while mitigating risks and avoiding damage to your residence and possessions.
When you are searching for a moving company, it is important to check if they are a trustworthy and reliable company. To find this out you can read their reviews on Product Review or speak to the sales staff over the phone and gauge whether they are helpful. We recommend that you also ask questions about their business and what their services include.
A few questions to ask:
- Is your company AFRA approved? (Australian Furniture Removal Association)
- Does your company have over 100 padded blankets, straps and relevant trolleys to use on every vehicle?
- Does your company hire only experienced, professional Brisbane removalists with at least 2 years of industry experience?
- Does your company have a dedicated operations team to keep you updated every step of the way? Or are the guys on the trucks coordinating their day whilst on the job?
- Does your company own their own trucks or are they just renting them from a truck rental company?
Myth 2: moving yourself is cheaper than hiring movers
It is a common misconception that moving yourself is cheaper than hiring movers.
But there are still a lot of costs to consider when moving and trust us, they all add up! A few costs to consider are fuel, truck hire, moving equipment hire, packing equipment, time off work and babysitting or pet minding fees. Not to mention the risk of damage to your property and possessions since you are not experienced OR the physical energy you are exerting.
Hiring movers can actually be more economical, especially when moving interstate from Melbourne to Brisbane.
Read our blog Moving Yourself Versus Hiring Movers to find out what is the best option for you.
Even if you are hiring movers, there is still a lot to do before move day. Packing is a long and tedious process that is best started weeks before your move day. To ensure you get the best bang for your buck, it is recommended that you have all boxes packed and ready for the movers.
Since most moving companies charge by the hour, it is in your best interest to set the day up for success!
However, some professional movers offer pre-packing services which completely takes the stress out of moving. If you are looking to avoid the hard work of moving as much as possible, perhaps you have very limited time, then adding prepacking services to your booking is a great idea for you.
Download our free moving checklist from our blog to find out all the things you should check off your list before the move date.
Professional movers can’t move everything. Be sure to check with your moving company about any obscure, large or heavy items. For example, large items like pianos will require additional moving equipment and if the transport of pianos is offered by the moving company, it will generally incur extra fees.
Myth 3: All Professional Movers Tell You If a Bulky Items Incurs Extra Fees
Wrong! Every company quotes differently, and it is easy to be caught out by hidden costs and fees. Here are some questions to ask when receiving a quote:
- Are there any extra charges with your rate? (Heavy lift fees, Staircase fees, Per kilometre fee, bad access charges, petrol levy, toll levy etc)
- Does the price include GST, or is it added at the end?
- Will I be charged per hour, per ½ hour or per 15 minutes?
- What size is the truck you are sending? (Some cheaper rates come with a very small truck which requires multiple trips. This will be a nightmare, especially with dual settlement jobs.)
- Does your price cover you for 2 or 3 removalists?
A professional, trustworthy, and reliable company will always be upfront and transparent about all costs as they are there to help you and provide a professional service.
Generally moving companies have transit insurance which covers your items in the event there is an accident on the road, while in transit that causes total loss to your furniture.
Purchasing accidental damage insurance that covers for damage whilst the furniture is being handled by the removalists themselves, is the responsibility of the customer.
Some companies will tell you that you are ‘insured’ but they neglect to tell you that they won’t cover you for any accidental damages. The professional and reliable moving companies will recommend that you purchase this and inform clients that they are not covered for damages.
The BEST companies will even help by putting you in touch with a reputable insurer for the transport industry if you ask.
Without the help of professional movers, this myth is true. However, professional movers are extremely organised and have the moving process down to a fine art! They have the experience, skills, and equipment to make moving a seamless process.
With professional movers onboard, moving can be an organised, stress-free process, particularly if you require a long distance move, in which case you should enlist the services of a responsible Brisbane to Melbourne removalist. Having the help of professional movers will allow you to relax and enjoy your new life chapter.
FAQs
Are all moving companies the same?
Not all moving companies operate in the same way. Some offer a full-service experience, including packing, transport, and unpacking, while others may only provide basic transport. The level of professionalism, equipment, and customer support can also vary. Choosing the right company involves understanding what services are included and how they manage the moving process. Comparing providers helps ensure you select one that aligns with your needs and expectations.
Are moving companies too expensive to use?
Moving companies can seem costly at first, but they often provide value by saving time, reducing physical effort, and lowering the risk of damage. The cost depends on factors such as distance, volume of items, and services required. When compared to the time and resources needed to move on your own, professional movers can be a practical option. Understanding what is included in the price helps you assess whether it suits your budget.
Is it safer to move everything yourself?
Moving everything yourself may seem like a way to save money, but it can increase the risk of damage or injury. Professional movers have the experience and equipment to handle items safely and efficiently. They understand how to pack, lift, and transport belongings to reduce the chance of damage. Using a moving company can provide a more structured and secure process compared to handling the move on your own.
Do moving companies handle items carefully?
Reputable moving companies take care when handling items and use appropriate packing methods and equipment. They are trained to manage different types of belongings, including fragile and bulky items. Proper handling helps reduce the risk of damage during transport. Choosing a company with a strong track record and clear processes can give you confidence that your items will be handled with care.
Do I need to prepare anything before the movers arrive?
Yes, some preparation is still required before movers arrive. This can include organising your belongings, labelling boxes, and setting aside essential items. While many companies offer packing services, being prepared helps the process run more smoothly. Clear communication about your expectations and any special requirements also supports a more efficient move.