Moving house is stressful enough without worrying about whether your removal company is trustworthy. Unfortunately, the removals industry has its share of unreliable operators — and knowing the warning signs before you book can save you money, time, and a lot of stress.
This guide covers the most common red flags to watch for when hiring a removal company, so you can book with confidence.
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1. No Fixed Address or Registered Business Details
A legitimate removal company should have a real, verifiable business address — not just a mobile number and a Facebook page. Before booking, search for the company’s registered address and check it matches what they advertise. If you can’t find any official business details, treat that as a serious warning sign.
What to do instead: Look for a company with a clear “About” page, a registered office address, and contact details that match across their website and Google Business Profile.
2. Asking for Large Deposits or Full Payment Upfront
It’s normal for some removal companies to ask for a small deposit to secure a booking date. However, be wary of any company demanding full payment well before the move takes place, especially in cash only.
What to do instead: A reasonable deposit (if any) is acceptable, but the bulk of payment should typically be due on or after the move is completed. Always get payment terms in writing.
3. No Proof of Insurance
Accidents happen — a dropped box, a scratched wall, a damaged sofa. Without insurance, you could be left covering the cost yourself. Any reputable removal company should be able to confirm they are fully insured, and ideally state this clearly on their website.
What to do instead: Ask directly: “Are you fully insured for this move?” A trustworthy company will answer confidently and may even offer to show proof.
4. Vague or Verbal-Only Quotes
If a removal company won’t give you a clear, written quote before moving day, that’s a major red flag. Verbal promises are easy to forget — or conveniently “change” once the van is loaded and you have little choice but to pay.
What to do instead: Always request a written quote that breaks down the cost, including any potential extra charges (stairs, long carry distances, ULEZ charges, etc.).
5. No Reviews, or Only Very Old Reviews
A genuine, active removal company should have a steady stream of recent customer reviews. If a company has no reviews at all, or their most recent reviews are from years ago, it could suggest they’re new, inactive, or hiding a poor reputation under a different name.
What to do instead: Check Google reviews specifically, and look at the dates. A company with 50+ recent five-star reviews is a far safer bet than one with none.
6. Pressure to Book Immediately
Be cautious of companies that pressure you to book on the spot with “today only” discounts or claim they’re your “last chance” for a date. Reputable companies are confident in their service and don’t need high-pressure tactics to win your business.
What to do instead: Take your time, compare a couple of quotes, and choose the company that answers your questions clearly and patiently.
7. Unmarked or Unbranded Vehicles
While not always a dealbreaker, a complete lack of branding on the van, paired with other red flags above, can be a sign of an informal, unregistered operation rather than an established business.
How Van Moving Specialists Compares
- ✅ Based in Croydon with a real, verifiable address
- ✅ Fully insured for every single move
- ✅ Over 62 five-star Google reviews, regularly updated
- ✅ Clear, written quotes with no hidden fees
- ✅ No pressure tactics — take your time to decide
- ✅ Branded vehicles and a professional, uniformed team
Want to see for yourself? Get a free, no-obligation quote here — no pressure, just an honest price.
Related Reading
Want to know more about choosing the right removal company? Read our full guide: Removal Companies Near Me: The Complete Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a removal company is legitimate?
Check for a real registered address, confirmed insurance, recent genuine reviews, and a clear written quote. Avoid companies that pressure you to pay in full upfront.
What should I do if a removal company asks for full payment before the move?
Be cautious. It’s reasonable to pay a small deposit, but full payment should generally be due on or after the move. If unsure, ask for this in writing and compare with other companies.
Are unbranded removal vans a red flag?
Not always, but combined with no reviews, no insurance confirmation, or vague pricing, it can suggest an informal or unregistered operation.
Why are recent reviews important when choosing a removal company?
Recent reviews show the company is actively operating and maintaining quality. A lack of recent feedback could indicate inactivity or a recent change in management or service quality.
Van Moving Specialists — Fully insured, fully transparent. Call 020 3105 0053 for an honest, no-pressure quote today.
