FAQs
Read common queries about moving home or storage of belongings. If you’re still unsure, please contact us. Our team will be happy to help.
Removals
How many boxes do I need?
Nearly everyone underestimates the number of boxes that they will need. Typically a four bedroom house will need 70-80 boxes. The kitchen uses the most boxes, with the average being 15.
Can House & Carriage ship my items?
Yes! House & Carriage have shipped clients all over the world. We can wrap and pack all your belongings to export standard, arrange container and shipping transport and our agents at your destination will settle you into your new home with a minimum of fuss. We can even fly out to meet your shipment at destination and complete the unpacking phase for you, thus giving you continuity and peace of mind.
Can House & Carriage supply packing materials?
Yes, we will generally deliver them to you a few weeks before your move, or you can collect from us. If we are packing for you we will bring everything that we need on the day.
Can I buy packing materials from House & Carriage?
We have a full range of packing materials for you to buy. Everything from boxes to bubble, paper to film and everything else in between. You do not need to be moving with us to have access to our materials. Simply call one of our team or drop in and have a browse.
Do you offer a Man & Van type service?
As well as offering bespoke moving solutions, we can also do a ‘man & Van’ service for the more budget conscious client. Hourly rate work and fix-price rates are available on request.
How much extra is it for a full packing service when I move house?
Generally it costs about a third of the removal charge. We can do a more simple China & Glassware pack and you do the rest, this will normally cost you a lot less.
Is the quality of packing materials important?
If there was one piece of advice we would give to everyone it would be: ‘Don’t scrimp on your packing materials!’. These are your possessions, often collected over a lifetime, so why would you buy cheaper, lower grade packing materials to move everything in? Our packing cartons are double and triple walled and made from good quality kraft paper and we have a full range of other materials to pack every item imaginable.
Remember – If you’re buying cheap materials there is a reason they are cheap. And what ever you do – do not be tempted to raid the local supermarket for their old boxes. They are very light in construction, designed for single use and definitely not for your valuables!
What about my attic?
Attic spaces are the great unknown! Unless we have specifically quoted to clear your attic it will generally be your responsibility to ensure it is empty before your move. But that is not to say we can’t and won’t do it so please do mention it when we are quoting for your move.
Storage
Are my goods protected in store?
We are able to provide protection for your goods in storage under our MoveProtect solution we have arranged with the Industry Specialist Broker, Basil Fry & Company. By declaring the value of goods to us, agreeing to our Terms & Conditions and paying our MoveProtect fees we agree to accept an enhanced limit of liability for your goods in storage for any damage that may occur. We feel this provides peace of mind in the unlikely event of any loss or damage. Â Our MoveProtect Addendum provides full details of the protection offered by this solution which you can review here or simply speak to one of the team if you prefer.
Can I access my storage when I like?
For containerised storage we charge £55 + VAT per container and £28 + VAT per container thereafter. Containers will be brought down for inspection Monday to Friday 9am until 4:00pm by appointment only.
Prohibited items - what can't I store?
We store almost anything but we do have to draw a line – we can’t store flammable materials and liquids (such as petrol), compressed gases, perishable items and animals. Weaponry is also out unless it has been de-activated. But give the storage team at House & Carriage a call and we will be happy to discuss this further.
What size is a House and Carriage storage container?
Each container is made of wood and holds 250 cubic feet which is about the size of a transit van inside. Prices start at £14 + VAT per week.
Where exactly are items stored?
We have a storage facility in Charlbury, Oxfordshire as well as purpose built container warehouse in Witney. No third party facilities are used for storing your goods, giving you that all important peace of mind.
Delivery
Do we do single item collections and deliveries?
Yes, we try to combine them with other client’s work so that everyone saves money and will price on that basis, unless it is urgent in which case we can usually turn it around very quickly.
Are my goods protected whilst in transit?
We are able to protect your goods with MoveProtect. MoveProtect is our agreement to accept an enhanced limit of liability up to the Maximum Replacement Value of your goods. By agreeing to our terms and conditions, declaring your value to us and paying any MoveProtect fees, we agree to accept liability for any unlikely damage to your goods while in our custody and control. Â Please see the dull details in the attached Addendum or speak to us for further details.
What delivery options do we offer?
At House & Carriage we can tailor the delivery option to suit your needs. We can do everything from a budget ‘Threshold’ delivery to our more usual ‘White Glove’ bespoke service.
For a threshold delivery we deliver to ground floor only, no unpacking and get a signed delivery receipt.
For our white glove service we deliver to room of choice, unwrap and set the piece up, remove all packaging and get a signed delivery receipt.
All deliveries are pre-booked and confirmed with recipients. For a delivery solution to suit you why not call one of our team.
Shipping
Can House & Carriage ship my items?
Yes! House & Carriage have shipped clients all over the world. We can wrap and pack all your belongings to export standard, arrange container and shipping transport and our agents at your destination will settle you into your new home with a minimum of fuss. We can even fly out to meet your shipment at destination and complete the unpacking phase for you, thus giving you continuity and peace of mind.
Can House & Carriage supply packing materials?
Yes, we will generally deliver them to you a few weeks before your move, or you can collect from us. If we are packing for you we will bring everything that we need on the day.
Can I buy packing materials from House & Carriage?
We have a full range of packing materials for you to buy. Everything from boxes to bubble, paper to film and everything else in between. You do not need to be moving with us to have access to our materials. Simply call one of our team or drop in and have a browse.
Is the quality of packing materials important?
If there was one piece of advice we would give to everyone it would be: ‘Don’t scrimp on your packing materials!’. These are your possessions, often collected over a lifetime, so why would you buy cheaper, lower grade packing materials to move everything in? Our packing cartons are double and triple walled and made from good quality kraft paper and we have a full range of other materials to pack every item imaginable.
Remember – If you’re buying cheap materials there is a reason they are cheap. And what ever you do – do not be tempted to raid the local supermarket for their old boxes. They are very light in construction, designed for single use and definitely not for your valuables!
Other
How can you help me as an Interior Designer?
At House & Carriage we work a lot with interior designers assisting them with the logistics side of their design projects. We can receive and inspect furniture from your suppliers, store all items and then deliver to site once the house is ready. We will then unpack everything and arrange furniture all to exacting specification.
Why not call us to see what House & Carriage can do for you on your next design project.