Choosing a Removals Company
1. Start Early
As soon as you have a confirmed moving date—or even a tentative one—begin researching removal companies. The best providers can book up quickly, especially during peak times like summer or the end of the month.
2. Look for Local Experience
Spain has its own quirks when it comes to access roads, building entrances, and bureaucracy. Choose a removals firm familiar with Spanish properties and local regulations. If you’re moving from another country, seek out companies experienced in international relocations, customs requirements, and ferry crossings if applicable.
3. Check for Credentials and Insurance
Reputable removals companies should be fully insured and accredited by relevant bodies, such as FEDEM (Federación Española de Empresas de Mudanzas) in Spain or the BAR (British Association of Removers) in the UK. This ensures a certain standard of professionalism and accountability.
4. Get Detailed Quotes
Obtain at least three written quotes. Ensure each includes a breakdown of services (packing, transport, storage, etc.), insurance coverage, and a clear timeline. Be wary of quotes that seem too low—cutting corners may end up costing you more.
5. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Word of mouth remains one of the most reliable sources. Ask friends, estate agents, or expat forums for referrals. Online reviews can also offer insight into a company’s reliability and service quality.
Preparing for the Move
1. Declutter Ruthlessly
Before packing, go through every room and get rid of anything you no longer use or love. Moving is a golden opportunity to start fresh. Donate, sell, or recycle items instead of paying to transport them.
2. Organise Important Documents
Keep passports, property deeds, insurance papers, and medical records in a separate, clearly labelled folder. Carry these with you during the move, not in the removal van.
3. Label Everything Clearly
Label boxes by room and include a short list of contents. Colour-coded labels or stickers can also help removal teams unload items quickly and accurately into the correct rooms.
4. Prepare a ‘First Night’ Box
Pack a box with essentials like toiletries, bed linen, snacks, chargers, tools, and a kettle with a few mugs and teabags or coffee. After a long moving day, you’ll thank yourself.
5. Communicate with Your Movers
Make sure your removals team knows the layout of your current and new home, including any access issues (e.g., narrow streets, stairs, or parking restrictions). Clear communication avoids last-minute surprises.
6. Prepare for Heat and Holidays
If you’re moving in summer, remember that temperatures can soar. Keep hydration and heat-sensitive items in mind. Also, avoid scheduling moves during public holidays like Semana Santa or August when many businesses shut down.A well-planned move isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s about arriving at your new home with peace of mind. By choosing the right removals company and preparing thoroughly, you’ll set the tone for a successful start in your new Spanish property.
¡Buena mudanza!
Spanish Property Magazine is proud to recomend the services of Helen’s Trucks. Helen’s Trucks is based on the Costa Blanca and has been helping people move all over europe for over 20 years.
