Why self drive removals are a preferred option for some

And how to move your possessions yourself with minimal risk

Self drive removals is another option in your relocation considerations. Some people prefer the independence that they can enjoy by moving their household goods themselves. If you haven’t given thought to self drive removals before now, here is a list of reasons why it could be the answer for you.

• Do it in your own time – Self drive removals allows you to pack your goods to your own time schedule and drive to your new location when it suits you.  The only consideration is cost because you will be paying for the hire of the vehicle from when you pick it up (or it’s delivered) to when you return it or have it collected.
• Take full responsibility for shipment of goods – Some people prefer knowing that their goods are in their control from beginning to end.  If you don’t feel comfortable with strangers moving your possessions, then self drive removals is the way to go for you.
• Save money – Hiring removalists is usually by the hour.  Perhaps you have a large family or a large circle of able-bodied friends who owe you a few favours.  Calling them in to help you load and unload the vehicle can drastically reduce your costs.
• Greater satisfaction – A job well done is always wonderful to look back on.  If you’re the type of person who enjoys seeing a job through from A to Z, then the self drive removal option will work well for you.

Must-haves for self drive removal

Aside from the benefits, there are a few downsides to self drive removal and it’s wise to be mindful of these in your planning.

• Have strong people on hand – If your team of helpers is not physically capable of handling an entire move in a reasonable space of time, then your self drive removal goals will not be achieved,
• Get insurance – Without insurance, you run the risk of property damage and loss of possessions creating unnecessary expense.  Just because you have arranged a self drive removal doesn’t mean that nothing will go wrong.  On the contrary; without the benefit of years of experience in removals, you could be setting yourself up for problems. Insurance will alleviate these pains.
• Use effective tie-down – It’s no use performing your own self drive removals if you don’t adequately tie down your possessions in the vehicle. Not only is there the potential for damage and breakages, but there are road hazards that may come about due to an unsecured load. Jack-knifing, overturning and overweight are just three of the more obvious ones. Invest in the appropriate tools and equipment to ensure your load is packed firmly and securely into the van, truck or container.
• Plan your journey – If your self drive removals is going to take you on a long-distance road trip, then you should always take the time to plan your route.  Avoid travelling over winding, mountainous roads or through narrow thoroughfares and CBD streets. Your journey will be safer and more enjoyable if you follow recognised freight routes.

In order to carry out safe, cost-effective and gratifying self drive removals, you need to weigh up all options.  Do your homework on partial DIY removals and full service removals, and make a list of the pros and cons of each.  Only then will you be able to determine the most logical, practical and hazard-free solution for your move.