We get unusual requests from our clients, sometimes for vehicle rentals that just aren’t suitable for home furniture moves. We are aware that some competitors (if we can call them that) rent out open vehicles with an owner-driver, at a cheaper price. The pitfalls are numerous:
- Rain and wind – open trucks offer no protection
- Inexperienced, cheap labour leads to breakages and tears
- No in-transit insurance – if insurers won’t cover the risk, should you?
- Fewer items can be loaded – you can’t fill an open truck
- Items are known to fall or blow off the back
- Smaller loading capacity means extra trips – costing more
Naturally, the same applies to bakkies and trailers, with even smaller loading capacity. We have found that even large and established members of our profession don’t automatically supply blankets and ropes for wrapping and securing furniture to protect your goods in transit. Some charge extra on the day, knowing that this is essential to your move.
Packing expertise is often the most important difference between a ‘cheap’ move and a ‘professional service’. This skill is difficult to learn and requires spatial and size orientation, which not everyone possesses. A full, closed vehicle can carry at least double the load of an open vehicle. More importantly, a well-packed vehicle reduces movement of goods, ensuring they don’t ‘bump and grind’ in transit. For peace of mind, please rather consider using a reputable mover, we only use closed vehicles for a reason… and with the rainy season on the way, it’s a good idea to protect your valuable furniture items from the elements.