Moving house in Cape Town can be a thrilling experience—but we’ve found that hiring unreliable movers can really make it stressful.
Our experience has shown us that customers who compare moving companies pay less, avoid delays and reduce stress. Use our helpful moving checklist below for hassle-free moving.
The Benefits of Comparing Moving Quotes
Don’t just go with the lowest quote. Some movers specialise in long distance moves, others deal with local moves only. Some offer white glove service, packing, transport and unpacking. Others offer transport only and won’t touch your belongings until they’re at your new place.
Comparing moving quotes allows you to check for hidden costs. You can check on additional costs and services (packing your items, insurance or storage options) as well as their level of professionalism by how clear and detailed their quotes are.
From our experience, movers who send you an itemised quote with clear prices upfront are much more reliable. We hear too many stories from customers who got 3 quotes for their move, only to find out that the cheapest quote didn’t include packing or insurance which ended up costing them thousands of rand.
Step 1: Check Qualifications and Experience First
Even before you pick up the phone to call a mover, you can weed out the ones with no business registration number in South Africa, not members of a recognised organisation such as the Furniture Removals Association of South Africa (FRASA), or don’t have insurance that will cover breakages and losses while your items are in their care.
Online reviews can also give you an indication if a company consistently meets deadlines, is careful with furniture, and provides good customer service. You want someone with experience – at least 5 years in Cape Town moving should mean they are familiar with the quickest routes at different times of day to avoid major traffic congestion as well as those sneaky suburbs with streets that aren’t quite worthy of your couch!
Step 2: Compare Prices and Get Quotes
Costs for movers can differ greatly for essentially the same service. When you receive quotes, take the time to read the fine print – some charge by the hour whereas others charge a flat fee. Do they charge extra for stairs, elevators, or carrying to far distances? Packing materials and unpacking (unpacking services include taking items apart and reassembling) are often fees that you will be charged extra for so make sure you ask!
You should get quotes from at least three separate companies. Take your time to compare each quote and don’t always go with the cheapest. Sometimes it’s worth paying that little extra if the quote includes packing and unpacking services, insurance, and careful handling of your belongings. In our experience, customers that take the time to compare quotes save up to 20% on average.
Step 3: Check What Services They Offer
Your move will probably consist of more than throwing boxes into the back of a truck. Professional full-service movers offer great services if you just want to pack up and chill. Require special handling for fragile or valuable furniture? Ask companies if they offer expert packing and fully-insured shipping.
Storage may be another great resource to inquire about. You never know if your new place will be ready when you are or vice versa. Many moving companies offer short and long-term storage options. Inquire if they offer inventory lists as well. Trust me on this; tiny detail or not, this list will be your saving grace if you ever need to file an insurance claim.
Step 4: Ask About Extra Fees
Watch out for additional fees—they pile up quickly. Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, heavy lifting/distance, stairs, overtime if your move exceeds estimated time. The more questions you ask upfront, the less likely you’ll run into surprises down the road.
Any reputable moving company should be honest about if and when you’ll incur additional fees. Get everything in writing concerning what their services include.
Step 5: Use a Moving House Checklist to Get Organized
Ok, I know what you’re thinking…another checklist? Hear me out! Eliminate your moving day chaos by starting planning with a moving checklist.
Declutter and donate things you no longer need. Verify moving day and date. Pack methodically. Label all boxes. Notify utilities. Move into your new home and forget we ever talked about moving! Oh, and don’t forget to pack a bag with toiletries and outfits for the first night in your new place.
Use digital programs like Google Keep or Trello. There are even apps specifically for moving! Stay organized and you’ll be less likely to leave something important behind.
Step 6: Review Insurance/Liability Coverage
Everyone says they’ll verify insurance, few actually do. Verify that your mover has accidental damage, loss or theft insurance while items are in transit.
You may need additional insurance if you’re transporting valuables. Photographing your items prior to moving day can also help if something gets lost or damaged.
One of our clients in Cape Town insured their dining room set. A clumsy driver bumped it during transit. The customer avoided almost R15,000 in damages. And that’s not a dinner conversation you want to have.
Step 7: Customer Service and Communication
If someone returns your calls/emails and is vague about costs/timelines/refunds, it’s not a good sign. The way your mover communicates will dictate the customer service you receive on moving day.
From our experience, movers who are proactive in their communication cut down on your moving day stress. We always suggest giving the company a call or visiting their office in person. If they’re disorganized now, imagine how that will look when you’re working with them on moving day.
Step 8: Partial Move Services
Did someone say PARTIAL move services? If you’ve got heavy things, or just a couple of boxes you need help with, look into hiring part-time movers! You can even find companies that will only pack up your home. You transport the boxes yourself, they ensure everything is wrapped securely. Ask about specialty movers for pianos, art, gym equipment, etc.
Partial moving services are often neglected, but they can save you time and money.
Step 9: Best Time To Move
Moving during peak season (summer and end of month weekends) will cost you more. Cape Town traffic should also play a factor in your moving plans. Allow yourself 2–3 days to pack and get ready to move. Hire your movers 2–4 weeks in advance if possible. Once you hit that last week before moving day you’ll be limited with your options and overpaying.
Step 10: Review Your Options
You’ve received estimates, checked their BBB credentials, you’ve asked plenty of questions. Time to make your choice. We recommend lining up your final 2-3 options and comparing price, what’s included, insurance options, and reviews.
We’ve had customers pick a mover who was slightly more expensive, because they offered full packing services, insurance included and had great reviews. Their move was seamless. No additional fees. No ruined furniture. Just happy customers.
Moving Company Checklist: Make Your Move Stress-Free
Having trouble finding a moving company you can trust? Things like clear-cut quotes, verified credentials, insurance, and necessary services should never be “iffy”. The way they treat you over the phone is just as important as how much they charge.
Use this moving company checklist to ensure you protect both your items (and your wallet) while minimizing stress. Trust us, a little planning goes a long way.
Takeaways:
- Get at least 3 moving quotes in Cape Town before booking someone. This allows you to compare pricing, services, and determine which company seems the most reliable.
- Verify moving company credentials, take note of their insurance details, and read online reviews.
- Create your own moving house checklist.
- Look for movers who have experience with specialty items if you have any fragile or high-value furniture.
- Watch out for hidden fees and remember some “premium services” like storage are optional.
FAQs
How Much Does it Cost to Move a House in Cape Town?
Most local moves cost between R1 500 – R5 000 depending on distance, volume of your items, and what services you require.
What is the Best Way to Compare Moving Quotes?
Request at least 3 written quotes. Make sure there are no hidden fees. And compare apples to apples when it comes to what they’ll do for you.
Are Cape Town Moving Companies Insurance Covered?
All reputable moving companies provide you with insurance. Make sure to clarify exactly what their policy includes.
How Do I Find the Best Furniture Removers in Cape Town?
Look for moving companies with experience in transporting fragile or high-value items. Check that they have verified reviews from past customers. And verify they have the proper insurance.
When’s the Best Time to Book a Moving Company?
If possible, book your move 2–4 weeks out. Keep in mind if you’re moving during their peak season.
One Last Tip
Don’t settle. Do your research, ask questions, and choose a moving company that checks all your boxes. Your peace of mind (and your items!) are worth it.
Bonus: Need help getting started? Click here to get free quotes from trusted moving companies in Cape Town.