Moving service: how to avoid surprises on moving day

Moving is one of the most stressful everyday projects. A good moving company takes away most of the stress, as long as you agree things clearly before the day.

1. Map out what is being moved

Make a simple list: rooms, the biggest furniture, a piano or other heavy items, the floors at the departure and arrival points, a lift and the carrying distance to the vehicle. It is worth attaching photos. The more precisely you describe it, the more accurate the quote.

2. Ask several for a quote

Ask at least two or three for a quote. Compare what the price includes:

• The number of workers and the working time.
• The size of the vehicle or vehicles and the travel costs.
• Packing materials and any packing service.
• Dismantling and assembling furniture.
• Transporting heavy items, such as a piano.

3. Ask about the pricing method

The price can be hourly, fixed or an estimate. Ask what happens if the job takes longer than planned. Also ask whether billing starts at the house or at the depot.

4. Insurance and damage

Ask whether the moving company has liability insurance and how broken items are compensated. Take photos of valuable things before the move and report any damage as soon as you notice it.

5. Checklist for moving day

• Reserve a parking space or street permit if needed.
• Book the lift with the housing company if needed.
• Label the boxes by room.
• Keep important documents and keys with you, not in the moving van.
• Agree times: when the provider arrives and when the home must be empty.

6. Move-out cleaning and notifications

Move-out cleaning is often part of the move. Remember also the change-of-address notification and moving your electricity and internet contracts. Current instructions are at posti.fi and dvv.fi.

On Palvelunyt.fi

In the request, give the postal codes of the departure and arrival points, the date and the floors, so providers in the area can offer a service of the right size.