How to choose a removalist
The right removalist protects your belongings, turns up on time and charges what they quoted. Here is a practical checklist for choosing well, plus the warning signs worth walking away from.
Check licensing and background checks
Ask who will actually turn up. A trustworthy operator uses licensed drivers and puts movers through background checks. This matters because these people handle your possessions and enter both your old and new home. PicUp background-checks and licenses every hauler in its network, so you are never left guessing who is on the job.
Confirm the insurance
Accidents are rare, but you want to know you are covered if something is dropped or damaged in transit. Confirm the mover carries transit insurance and understand what it covers. Be wary of anyone who cannot explain their cover clearly. Every PicUp move includes multi-million dollar transit insurance as standard.
Read the reviews properly
Look past the star rating and read what recent customers actually say about punctuality, care with furniture and whether the final price matched the quote. A large volume of recent, consistent reviews is more telling than a handful of glowing ones. PicUp holds a 4.6 star rating from 489 Google reviews and has completed over 35,000 moves.
Google rating and review count pulled June 2026.
Understand fixed versus hourly pricing
Hourly rates leave the final cost open until the job is done, and they often add call-out fees, minimum hours and depot travel time. A fixed price is calculated up front and locked in, so you know the total before you commit. For most people a fixed price is both better value and far less stressful. Our guide on how much removalists cost explains how each model is built.
Look for live tracking and easy booking
Modern removalists let you book online and track your team on moving day, so you are not stuck waiting on a vague window. PicUp gives you an instant online quote in about 60 seconds, 7 days a week, with same-day or scheduled bookings and real-time GPS tracking from pickup to delivery.
Red flags to avoid
- Quotes given only by phone with no clear breakdown, or a refusal to put the price in writing.
- Large cash deposits demanded up front before any service.
- No verifiable business details, no reviews, or an address you cannot find.
- Vague answers about insurance or who will actually do the move.
- Prices that seem far below everyone else, which often means extra fees appear on the day.
Once you have chosen your mover, get organised early with our moving house checklist and practical tips for moving house.
What PicUp customers say
“We booked PicUp (Davinder & friend) to do a small move for us. They were polite, fast and efficient and kept me up to date with when they would arrive etc every step of the way.”
“They let you know of times etc, and look after your gear. The movers themselves are also very friendly and helpful.”
“Was very impressed with the level of service the young bloke provided. Turned up on time, was very polite to my wife & the owner of the house & was very efficient & careful when moving the item for us.”
“Jake and Luke (I hope I got the names right) were fantastic! Totally exceeded my expectations. So friendly and polite and got the job done in no time at all.”
Verbatim reviews from PicUp's Google Business Profile. Reviews reflect individual customer experiences.
Choosing a removalist FAQs
How far in advance should I book?
One to two weeks gives you the best choice of time slots. Same-day is often possible when haulers are nearby, and PicUp lets you book up to four weeks ahead at the same fixed price. Peak periods such as month-end and long weekends fill fast.
Should I choose the lowest quote?
Not on price alone. Compare what is included, the insurance, the reviews and whether the price is fixed. A quote that looks like the lowest can end up costing more once hourly overruns and extra fees are added. Look for the best value overall, not just the smallest headline number.
What questions should I ask before booking?
Ask whether the price is fixed or hourly, what the insurance covers, whether the crew is licensed and background-checked, and how they handle stairs, lifts and parking. Clear answers are a good sign.
Do I need to be there on moving day?
Yes, or a nominated representative should be present at both ends to direct the crew, confirm what goes where and check nothing is left behind. With live tracking you can see exactly when the team will arrive.
Ready for a fixed price in 60 seconds?
Tell PicUp your pickup and drop-off suburbs and your item list, and your exact fixed price appears online before you book. No callbacks, no surprises on moving day, and every job is covered by multi-million dollar transit insurance.