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Everything to know about the British Association of Removers
19th August 2024
The British Association of Removers is an organisation committed to the quality of services within the removal industry. It is a voice for both companies and customers. By choosing a BAR-certified removal company, you can enjoy benefits such as peace of mind, trading standards, payment protection, and free independent ombudsman service.
Who is BAR?
Founded over 100 years ago, the British Association of Removers (BAR) is an independent body that sets and regulates the standards of removal companies nationwide.
BAR is dedicated to promoting ‘professional excellence’ in the removal industry, developing and maintaining professional standards and service to benefit customers. Whether you’re moving within the UK, to Europe, or worldwide, the British Association of Removers ensures its members can offer you a hassle-free move.
History of BAR
In 1900, a meeting was organised amongst representative companies in the industry to form an association of removals and storage businesses. During this time, the industry was facing a lot of criticism from the public, with claims of damages and services such as railways and insurance companies looking to increase their prices of removal businesses. The lack of standards between removal companies also made it tricky for customers to compare fairly.
In May 1900, the Furniture Warehouse and Removers Association was formed to regulate and advocate for the interests of removals and storage businesses and their customers.
Why Should I Choose a BAR Member for My Move?
Choosing a BAR Member can provide you with a range of benefits, ensuring your move goes smoothly. You can have overall peace of mind knowing you’re using a reputable, professional, and safe remover, and in the rare event of an issue, you have someone to support you.
High Standards of Service
BAR members have to be committed to a high standard of service in every aspect. The BAR CTSI Code of Practice enures members are all performing to the same quality.
The code of practice inspects various areas of trading, including:
- Standard of Service
- Advertising
- Contracts
- Insurance
- Premises and Resources
- Cancellation Policy
- Complaints, Disputes and Claims
All BAR Members must have ongoing annual inspections during membership to ensure they continue to meet the highest standards as outlined in the CTSI code of conduct.
Financial Protection
Paying in advance is standard when moving home or office, especially when moving abroad. All members must provide their customers with the safety net of an Advanced Payment Guarantee Scheme. Once confirming the contract with your chosen company, they must provide you with details of the payment scheme.
This safety net ensures all prepayments are protected if the BAR Member cancels your move, and the BAR Advanced Payment Guarantee Scheme covers you in the event a BAR Member experience financial failure.
Customer Satisfaction
Deciding on a removal company can be difficult, but any BAR Member must provide significant evidence of the quality of the customer service offered. Reading previous customer experiences can help you select a removal company and give you peace of mind that their service is of great quality.
Free Alternative Dispute Resolution
On the off chance that you have an issue that cannot be solved between you and your removal company, either party can use the free, independent Alternative Dispute Resolution Service provided by BAR. Through FHIO (The Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman) an independent, qualified and approved ADR, you can provide information about what you believe the business has not done as per the contract/quote and what you would like them to do to resolve the issue. Choosing a non-BAR Member for your move does not provide you with this free service and, therefore, the same peace of mind.
Ready to start your move?
If you’re ready to start your move across the UK, Europe or the rest of the world contact a member of our team today to find out more information, or get a quote!
