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The right move

With so many considerations when moving, we have put together a list of the questions we get asked most often. If you need more information, get in touch with one of our friendly team who will be happy to assist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Greater Northern Removals and Storage provide?

We offer a full range of removal services including:

  • Local moves within the Cairns region
  • Domestic moves within Australia both intra and interstate
  • International moves
  • Storage (long and short term)
  • Office moves
  • Transportation of pets (Australia only)
  • Vehicle relocation
  • Travel insurance
  • A range of packing/unpacking services
  • Cleaning services

When should I call a moving company?

We recommend getting in touch as soon as possible to ensure you have your preferred moving date secured – Thursdays and Fridays are our most popular days for example. Six weeks is comfortable but the more notice you give, the more choice and flexibility you will have. For busier periods such as towards the end of the calendar year, you may need to allow longer.

What is the relationship with Greater Northern Removals and Storage and Chess Moving?

Greater Northern Removals and Storage is partners of the Chess Moving Australia group, an Australia wide network (11 offices in all states) of long-standing family owned professional removal companies. All partners are full members of AFRA and therefore bound by its strict code of conduct which allows us to offer you a professional and secure service nationally.

What items are you unable to move?

The following are dangerous goods and are not transportable by Greater Northern Removals and Storage:

  • Perishable Foods & Cooking Oils
  • Cleaning Solvents
  • Aerosol Cans
  • Matches & Firelighters
  • Pesticides
  • Flammable Liquids of ANY KIND
  • Dangerous Chemicals of ANY KIND including
    • Swimming Pool Chemicals
    • Photographic Chemicals
    • Gas Cylinders emptied at Authorised Locations

Do I have to be there for the move?

We strongly recommend that you are – this way, your furniture will be moved into the correct rooms when your destination is reached. If you can’t be, please speak to us for alternative options.

What if my home is not ready when goods are due for delivery?

We have storage facilities at our depots and can arrange for your belongings to be safely stored here until your home or office is moved. Please contact us to discuss options and for a quote.

Can Greater Northern Removals and Storage dismantle and re-assemble items?

At Greater Northern Removals and Storage, dismantling and reassembly of items such as beds is what we do every day, so it takes us no time at all and is included as standard for each move. If you do have other pieces of furniture or things which cannot be transported assembled, we will quote for these separately. These include but are not limited to:

  • Trampolines
  • Desks
  • Large cabinets
  • Cubby houses
  • Gym sets

Will Greater Northern Removals and Storage pack personal effects?

Depending on your requirements, Greater Northern Removals and Storage can complete all of your packing and can also supply specialist boxes for clothing if these are required. Contact us today for a quote.

How soon should I contact a removals company?

Typically, it takes two to four weeks to inspect a property, provide a quote and schedule in the move, depending on where you are moving to.

During the summer school holidays, we advise customers to provide as much notice as possible to ensure your move date is available.

When can we expect removalists to arrive?

We contact our customers at least one working day before the scheduled moving day to advise of a time. This means you will know exactly when your belongings will be ‘lifted’ from the property, so you can be ready. You’ll already know approximately when we are due (morning or afternoon for example) however, we like to be as accurate as we can which is why we confirm the day prior, meaning less likelihood of any changes.

Will we get a courtesy phone call prior to removal?

As part of our commitment to provide excellent customer service, we provide a courtesy call to our customers prior to the removal taking place.

Do you move pool tables and pianos?

Professional piano removals

Our team of professional removalists will handle your prized instrument with care from the moment it leaves your home until it arrives at your new abode.

Whether it’s an upright or grand piano, we have specialist equipment and packing materials to transport your belongings safely.

 

Pool table removals

Owners of pool tables will know just how heavy they are, weighing anywhere up to 250kg. Pool tables can also be very fragile due to their slate beds, so they are not items you’d want to be moving without professional equipment or experience.

Our removalists have experience and the specialist equipment needed to move your pool table without causing damage.

Some larger pool tables may need to be dismantled for safe transport, particularly if the move requires stairs.

Will you move pot plants?

In most cases, we are able to move pot plants, with the exception of moves to West Australia and Tasmania, where border control restrictions need to be adhered to.

How can I protect paintings, mirrors and glass items?

We have a large range of protective materials for paintings, mirrors and glass items:

  • Bubble wrap is used to provide extra padding for items that need protection.
  • Cellulose foam is used to protect raw oil paintings.
  • Protective blankets are used to protect your prized possessions from being scratched whilst in transit.
  • Picture cartons can be used for valuable picture frames and paintings.

Custom made crates are also an option to ensure your valuable items remain damage-free.

Can I pack my own boxes?

Yes, our customers can pack their own boxes.

Greater Northern Removals & Storage can provide you with advice on packing depending on your consignment.

Generally, we advise customers to pack items upright, even plates and bowls, to provide greater protection whilst in transit.

Do I need to prepare my appliances for transport?

The make and model of your white goods will determine the preparation. Generally, fridges should be turned off 24 hours prior to the move.
Some washing machines may require a specialist to uninstall or disconnect.

Do I have to empty my chest of drawers?

All furniture should travel empty meaning you will have to empty those drawers before the big move.

Quotes and Payments

How do I obtain a moving quote?

You can use the quick quote or the full quote functions on our website to give you an estimate as a starting point. For a more detailed quote please contact us to arrange a visit to your home or workplace, with one of our consultants. Getting a fixed price means there are no nasty surprises, and that nothing will be overlooked such as ease of access to your property. If this is not possible, we can go through your requirements on the phone and what’s more, our quoting service if free of charge with no obligation.

How long is my quote valid for?

Our quotes are valid for 30 days, unless otherwise specified.

Should I take out moving insurance?

At Greater Northern Removals and Storage, we pride ourselves on treating your belongings with the utmost care however, incidents which are beyond our control, do happen. For peace of mind, we would always recommend taking out insurance and are happy to explain the risks with you, as well as organise a quote for cover which best suits your need. For more information, contact one of our friendly staff.

How do I book?

Customers can book their removals online through our website, by calling 07 4035 5500, or visiting us at one of our depots.

When and how do I pay?

Customers are required to pay in full, 48 hours prior to the move. This can be via bank transfer or credit card. What’s more, we do not charge any credit card fees.

Will I have to pay a deposit?

A $100 deposit is required at the point of booking.

Are we covered under insurance or is this an extra cost?

We recommend all customers discuss their cover with their insurance broker to determine whether their belongings are insured. Greater Northern Removals & Storage is an Authorised Representative (No. 276057) of Cowden (VIC) Pty Ltd and can help you arrange your insurance to protect your items whilst they are in transit or storage.

Is there a cancellation fee?

We understand that plans can change, whether that’s through sickness or the house sale not completing. Whatever the reason, we request at least 48 hours’ notice where possible.

Changing your mind or not giving a valid reason for the cancellation will result in a cancellation fee will being applied.

Domestic moves

Can you move my pets throughout Australia?

We understand that your pets are part of your family and as such, will organise specialised transport for them, with trusted companies for domestic moves.

Can you help me move my vehicle?

Assuming you don’t want to self-drive, we can organise a quote to move your car or boat safely.

International moves

Can you move my pets overseas?

We cannot assist with pet transportation if you are moving overseas, but you can find out more here: https://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/wildlife-trade/non-commercial/household-pets.
Be mindful that different countries have different quarantine requirements, so make sure you are fully across these and understand the costs and timeframes involved.

Will my electrical appliances work overseas?

This all depends on the voltage of the country you are moving to as well as the type of plug. Some simply require a new plug whereas for other countries, you’ll need to invest in a transformer. You can find out more here http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plug-voltage-by-country/

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