- Matt
- October 3, 2026
A removalist contract is the piece of paper that decides what happens when something goes wrong: a broken mirror, a late truck or a bill that is bigger than the quote. Most people sign it on the doorstep without reading it. Ten minutes before you book saves a lot of argument later.
Here is what to check before you sign, from local removalists who have been moving Wollongong families since 2014.
1. Is the quote in writing and itemised?
Get the price in writing, with what is included spelled out: the truck size, the number of movers, travel time, packing materials and any extra charges. A verbal “about $800” is not a quote.
2. Is it charged by the hour or a fixed price?
Local moves are usually charged by the hour, with a minimum number of hours and travel time added. Interstate and long distance moves are usually a fixed price based on volume. Make sure you know which one you are signing, and what happens if the job takes longer.
3. What extras can be added on the day?
Ask about stairs, long carries, pianos and other heavy items, parking problems, tolls, fuel and packing materials. A good removalist asks you about access before the day, so the quote already covers it.
4. How much is the deposit, and when is the rest due?
Be wary of large upfront deposits, especially in cash. Check when the balance is due and how you can pay. At 777 World Removals there is no upfront deposit for local moves, and payment is due when the move is finished.
5. What does the insurance actually cover?
Ask what transit insurance covers, the limits, any excess, and whether high-value items such as art, antiques or pianos need extra cover. “Fully insured” means nothing until you know what is covered.
6. How do you make a damage claim?
Check how long you have to report damage and what evidence is needed. Photos taken on the day are your best friend. We ask customers to report any issue with photos within 24 hours so it can be resolved quickly.
7. What is the cancellation and date change policy?
Settlement dates move. Check what happens if you need to change the date, and whether you lose your deposit if you cancel.
8. When will your furniture arrive, and on which truck?
For interstate moves, get the delivery window in writing and ask whether your furniture stays on the same truck or goes into a depot or warehouse on the way. Every transfer is another chance for damage. Our interstate moves stay on one truck, door to door.
9. Is there an inventory of what is being moved?
For bigger moves and anything valuable, an inventory of what is going on the truck protects both of you if something goes missing.
10. Who are you actually dealing with?
Check the company’s ABN, a real business address, recent Google reviews, and whether they use their own trucks and crews or subcontract the job. Read our guide to avoiding moving scams in Wollongong for the warning signs.
Red flags to walk away from
- No written quote, or a price far below everyone else.
- A large cash deposit before anything is booked.
- No ABN, no address and no reviews you can check.
- Pressure to sign on the spot.
Get a quote you can read
Every 777 World Removals quote is itemised before any work begins, so you know exactly what you are paying for. See our removalist prices or get a quote in about a minute.
Frequently asked questions
Do removalists need a written contract?
You should always get the price and terms in writing before moving day, including what is included, how you pay, the insurance cover and the cancellation policy. It protects you and the removalist if anything goes wrong.
Should I pay a removalist deposit?
Be careful with large upfront deposits, especially in cash. Many reputable removalists take no deposit or a small one. 777 World Removals takes no upfront deposit for local moves, and payment is due when the move is finished.
What should I do if furniture is damaged during a move?
Take photos straight away and report it to the removalist as soon as possible, in writing. Check your contract for the time limit; we ask customers to report any issue with photos within 24 hours.
Is an hourly or fixed price better for a move?
Hourly pricing usually suits local moves, where the job is short and predictable. Fixed, volume-based pricing usually suits interstate and long distance moves, so time on the road never adds to your bill.
