10 Questions to Ask Your Movers in Canberra Before Booking

Hiring movers in Canberra seems easy — until you realise not all removalists are created equal.

Some show up late. Some charge extra for stairs. Some disappear the second your last box is on the truck. (Yikes.)

Before you lock in your move, make sure you’re choosing a removalist who’s actually going to make your life easier — not more stressful. Whether you’re moving a tiny apartment in Braddon or a full family home in Weston Creek, these 10 essential questions will help you avoid nasty surprises, missed deadlines, and broken furniture.

Let’s get into it.

1. Are You Local to Canberra - or Just Popping In?

This one’s big. Local knowledge matters more than you’d think. A Canberra-based removalist will:

• Know peak traffic zones (hello, Northbourne Avenue)
• Understand building access rules in Civic or Woden
• Be able to visit for a quote or handle last-minute changes faster

Pro tip: Ask them what suburbs they work in most. If they fumble… you’ve got your answer.

2. Do You Charge Extra for Stairs, Elevators, or Parking Issues?

Some movers throw in surprise “access fees” when they arrive and realise you live on the third floor with no lift. Avoid the awkwardness and ask upfront:

• Is there a surcharge for walk-ups?
• What if parking is more than 20 metres from the door?
• Can they handle narrow staircases or apartment buildings?

3. What’s Included in the Quote — and What’s Not?

Many people look at the hourly rate and assume it’s all-inclusive. It’s not always.

Ask:

• Does it include GST?
• Is travel time to and from the job included?
• Is there a fuel or depot fee?
• How long is the quote valid for?

The best movers in Canberra will give you a breakdown before you have to ask.

4. Do You Provide Packing Services or Materials If Needed?

Even if you plan to DIY your packing, it’s good to know:

• Can they supply boxes and tape?
• Do they offer full packing or fragile-item-only services?
• What happens if you’re not ready by move day?

Some companies (like Doctor Move) offer packing kits and even partial packing services to help get things rolling faster.

5. Are You Insured, and What Does It Actually Cover?

Don’t just ask if they’re insured — ask how they’re insured.

Questions to ask:

• What happens if something breaks during the move?
• Is insurance included, or do I need to add it on?
• Can I purchase extra protection for fragile or high-value items?

If they dodge the question, run.

6. Do You Offer Storage If There’s a Delay in Moving In?

Moves don’t always line up perfectly. Sometimes you’re stuck in between leases or your new home isn’t ready yet.

Ask your movers:

• Do you offer short-term or overnight storage?
• Can items be held securely for a few days if needed?
• Is it on-site or outsourced to a third-party facility?

Some Canberra movers (like us!) offer secure, flexible storage for just this kind of situation.

7. How Do You Handle Fragile or Bulky Items?

Whether it’s your vintage record player or the world’s heaviest couch, some things need extra care.

Ask:

• Do they wrap or disassemble furniture?
• Are items like mirrors or TVs padded?
• Can they move pianos, oversized items, or gym equipment?

Their answer will tell you a lot about their experience — and how careful they’ll be with your stuff.

8. What’s the Cancellation or Rescheduling Policy?

Life happens. You might need to change your date last minute.

Ask:

• How much notice is required to reschedule or cancel?
• Is there a fee if plans change?
• Can they still help if you need to move sooner?

Reliable movers in Canberra will have clear policies and won’t charge unfair fees for reasonable changes.

9. Will the Same Team Be Handling the Entire Move?

In some cases (especially for long-distance or interstate jobs), your belongings get handed off between crews. Not ideal.

Ask:

• Will the same people who load the truck also unload it?
• Are all movers part of your company or sub-contracted?
• Do I have a single point of contact during the move?

Continuity = accountability.

10. Can I See Your Reviews or Speak to a Past Client?

Any reputable mover should be able to point you to:

• Google reviews
• Testimonials
• Case studies or before/after stories

You can also check if they’ve moved people in your area. “We helped two families move from Griffith just last month!” is a green flag.

Don't Forget! Ask the Questions Now, Thank Yourself Later.

It’s easy to focus on price or availability when choosing movers. But asking the right questions gives you the full picture — and ensures you’re working with people who will:

• Show up on time
• Handle your belongings with care
• Communicate clearly
• Help make your move less stressful, not more

If you’re looking for friendly, reliable movers in Canberra, Doctor Move has your back. We’re locals, we’re professional, and we’ll answer all ten questions — honestly.

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