How To Start A Removals Business

Removalist services are always in demand because people are always moving. Whether it be moving a business or house, the act of moving can be a stressful time, and removalists help with this process. If you want to start a removalist business, there are a few key things you need to pay attention to. This blog will outline some of the key steps to starting your removals business, so you can get a headstart and stand out from your competitors!

Who should start a removals business?

Working as a removalist is a physically demanding job. You have to be able to move heavy furniture for long periods of time regularly. People suited to being removalists should be physically fit and strong to be able to keep up with these demands. If you have health issues or previous injuries, particularly with your back or arms, you should consider whether being a removalist is right for you.

To start a removals business, there are also a number of important personal qualities you should have. It’s important to be organised and be good at planning so you can manage the needs of multiple clients at the same time. You should also be able to manage your time effectively so you can accurately estimate how long a job will take to be completed. 

Also, good communication skills are key. You’ll be dealing with clients daily, and you’ll need to explain the removals process clearly. Moving can often be a stressful process, and you should be able to reassure your customers.

What type of removals services should I offer?

One of the main decisions you’ll face when starting a removals business is what services you’ll offer. Here are the main services you can choose between for your removals business.

Man and van

“Man and van” is a perfect business strategy for just one person. It’s a great place to start if you don’t have a business partner and you’re new to the industry. The man and van service is also the most in-demand form of removalist services, so you’ll always have opportunities for new clients. The key to a man and van service is a reliable removals truck.

Home removals

Home removal services are best suited to houses with three or more rooms. This is one of the more expensive removals services and the type of service most people order when moving house.

Commercial removals

Removals aren’t just for houses. Commercial removals involve offices, shops, and workplaces. These types of removals often involve the moving of fragile items or large equipment. Since this is a larger type of removal services, you’ll need a couple of other removalists to help you out.

Removals Packing

Professional packing is a popular service because no one wants to waste their time packing. To work in packing, it’s important to know how to pack different items without damaging them. You should also know how to use different types of packing materials to protect the items. Although you’ll have to invest in packing materials, it’s necessary if you want to provide this kind of service.

Removals Storage

Often when people run out of storage, they turn to the service of a storeroom. Whether they need to store something large or just a few trinkets, a storeroom is a helpful solution. A customer will temporarily use a storeroom to keep their belongings until they find somewhere else to keep them.

What qualifications do I need to start a removals company?

The great news is that you can start a removals business without qualifications! However, you might also study a degree in Furniture Removals, which can help demonstrate your competence. There is an increasing demand for removalist services, so you’ll likely be able to get clients even if you don’t have formal qualifications. 

Steps to starting a removalist business in Australia

Consider moving training

If you’ve never moved households before, it’s a good idea to consider moving training. Moving training will help you understand the moving process, so you’re prepared for your first job. Moving training also helps you be more efficient during the moving process, which will help save you time and money.

Another type of training you might be interested in is sales training. As your business starts to grow and get busier, you’ll want to be able to book more jobs. Sales training is a great way to boost your confidence as well as increase profits!

Calculate your budget

One of the first steps you’ll have to address when starting a removalist business is calculating your budget. To calculate your budget, you should consider the future expenses that you’ll face. One of the major expenses will be your van. A van will require an immediate investment, as well as ongoing money towards maintenance and petrol. 

You’ll also need an assortment of packing materials if you’re planning on providing a packing service. The main materials will be tape, packing paper, bubble wrap, and a range of removals packing boxes in different sizes.

Promotion will also require an investment of money. Nowadays, the internet is the main place we hear new services, so you’ll need to build a strong reputation online. There are plenty of professionals online who can help you set up a website and use social media to promote your services. Consider how to plan your budget to meet the needs of your new business best. If maths or budget planning isn’t your strong point, consider the services of a financial planner.

Build your online presence

Building a good website is one of the key steps towards establishing your online presence. Your website should be well designed and look professional, but also be easy to navigate. On your website, you’ll be able to list the services you offer, and potential clients can read more about them. Make sure that the information on your website is always accurate and up to date. If you don’t know where to start professional web designer can help – you can find one right here on BorisDoes!

Register your business

The first step is to register your business. You’ll have to decide whether you want to register as a Sole Trader, Partnership, or Company.

Hire or buy removals equipment

Being a removalist requires special equipment. After all, you can’t move large furniture with just your car. You can decide to either hire or buy equipment. Most removals companies have a number of trucks which they use for transporting furniture. Buying trucks outright can be expensive, so some business opt to hire their vans instead. 

License and insurance

There are no formal license requirements for the removals industry, but it’s important to maintain a high standard of work. You can also qualify for accreditation with the AFRA if you have the right standards of equipment and staff.

To protect your business from anything going wrong, you should obtain liability and cargo insurance. Insurance helps to cover you from expenses related to lost or damaged belongings which may occur during removal. Contact your insurance agency to discuss your options further.

Make a business plan

Writing up a business plan before you start your business can help you recognise all the factors influencing your business. A business plan helps you decide the next step for your business and keep track of your expenses.

Decide on prices

To set your removals costs, you’ll have to consider the expenses of your equipment and time. To give you an idea of how you should price your services, it’s a good idea to check out your competitors. You’ll want to price your services competitively to help you stand out and encourage customers to choose your services. However, it’s important to avoid undervaluing your services because this could result in a loss of profit. By setting prices for your services, you’ll be able to provide your customers with an accurate removals quote.

Connect with clients

To get a head start on your business and connect with clients, you have the option of purchasing moving leads. You can purchase these leads online from a number of providers. When you’re dealing with clients, it’s important to remember to stay professional and friendly at all times. Moving can be a stressful experience for people, so you should do your best to make it easier for them. Keep up to date with the questions frequently asked for removalists and ensure you can answer them. The more satisfied your customers are, the more likely they are to recommend your services. 

Conclusion

To start a removals business, it’s important to have the right equipment, skills, and physical stamina. You should be dedicated to your clients and ensure that you make the moving process as smooth as possible for them. It’s also important to have a clear plan to follow so you always know what’s coming next. With the right preparation, there’s no limit to the success your business can reach!