Moving house is one of those things most people don’t do often, which makes it easy to get caught out. On paper, it looks simple — load the truck, drive to the new place, unload. In reality, a move involves timing, care, trust, and a fair bit of coordination. The removalist you choose can make the day feel smooth and under control, or stressful from start to finish.
Many people only realise they made a mistake once moving day is already underway. By then, it’s usually too late to fix. Knowing what to watch out for beforehand can save you money, time, and a lot of frustration. Below are eleven common mistakes people make when hiring a removalist, especially when moving in and around Cairns.
1. Choosing the cheapest quote without asking questions
Price matters, but the cheapest quote is not always the best value. Some quotes leave out key details like stairs, long carry distances, or heavy items. Others don’t include insurance or enough labour. A low number can quickly climb once the job starts. It’s better to understand what’s included than be surprised later.
2. Not checking local experience
Cairns has its own challenges — narrow streets, wet season weather, older Queenslander homes, and units with limited access. A removalist unfamiliar with the area may underestimate the time or equipment needed. Local experience often means better planning and fewer hiccups on the day.
3. Booking too late
Leaving your booking until the last-minute limits your options. Good removalists book out quickly, especially on weekends and at the end of the month. Rushing the decision often leads to settling for whoever is available, rather than who is best suited to your move.
4. Assuming everything is insured
Not all removalists offer the same level of cover. Some only insure the truck, not your belongings. Others offer limited protection unless you request extra coverage. Always ask what happens if something is damaged, and get the answer in writing.
5. Underestimating how much you own
It’s easy to forget what’s packed away in sheds, cupboards, and spare rooms. When a removalist turns up expecting a two-hour job and it becomes four, costs rise and schedules shift. Being honest about the size of your move helps everyone plan properly.
6. Not reading reviews carefully
Reviews matter, but not just the star rating. Look for patterns in feedback. Are people mentioning late arrivals, broken items, or poor communication? One bad review might not mean much, but several similar ones usually do.
Around the halfway point of planning, many people start searching for advice and come across articles and blogs offering general tips hiring a removalist. These are useful, but they work best when paired with asking direct questions and trusting your instincts when something feels off.
7. Forgetting to ask who will actually do the move
Some companies outsource jobs or send different crews depending on availability. You may speak to one person during booking and see someone else on the day. Ask whether the movers are employees or contractors, and how experienced the team will be.
8. Not confirming details in writing
Dates, times, addresses, and costs should all be confirmed before moving day. Verbal agreements can be misunderstood. A written confirmation keeps everyone on the same page and gives you something to refer back to if needed.
9. Expecting movers to do everything
Removalists are there to move items, not organise your home. If boxes aren’t packed, furniture isn’t dismantled, or access isn’t clear, delays happen. Being prepared helps the day run smoothly and keeps costs under control.
10. Assuming all removalists are basically the same
This might be the biggest mistake of all. The difference between a professional outfit and a couple of blokes with a truck can be staggering. Professional companies invest in proper training, maintain their vehicles, use quality packing materials, and employ staff rather than casual laborers. They understand how to pack a truck efficiently, protect delicate items, and navigate tricky staircases without demolishing your walls.
11. Thinking that every move has the same rate
Not all moves are priced the same, even if they look similar at first glance. Access issues, stairs, heavy items, travel distance, and timing all affect cost. Assuming there’s a flat rate for every move can lead to frustration when the final price doesn’t match expectations. Asking how your specific move is priced helps avoid confusion later.
Wrapping it all up
Hiring a removalist doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require a bit of thought. Taking time to ask questions, read reviews, and plan properly can make a huge difference to how your move feels. A good removalist doesn’t just transport items — they help reduce stress during a busy and emotional time.
Whether you’re moving across town or further afield, choosing a team that understands your needs and treats your belongings with care is essential. When done right, furniture removals and storage should feel organised, predictable, and well managed, not rushed or chaotic.
For people moving in and around Far North Queensland, Butler’s Removals & Storage brings local knowledge and practical experience to every job, helping make moving day feel far more manageable.
