About The Removals Industry Ombudsman Scheme

Every removal company that receives enquiries through www.move-quote.com is a participant in the Removals Industry Ombudsman Scheme.

This means that when you request quotes through Move-Quote, you're only being introduced to removal companies that operate within a recognised framework of professional standards and independent consumer protection.

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Why This Matters

Why This Protects You

The removals industry in the UK is largely unregulated, which can make it difficult for customers to know who they can trust. The Removals Industry Ombudsman Scheme provides an important safeguard.

Independent Dispute Resolution

An independent dispute resolution service that handles complaints fairly and impartially

Clear Complaints Route

A clear route for complaints if something goes seriously wrong with your removal

External Accountability

A system where removal companies are accountable to an external authority

Binding Decisions

Decisions that are binding on the removal company, but not on you - protecting your rights

In short: It gives you peace of mind that you're not left to handle serious issues on your own.

Understanding The Scheme

What Is the Removals Industry Ombudsman Scheme?

The Removals Industry Ombudsman Scheme exists to help resolve disputes between customers and participating removal companies when a company's own complaints procedure has been exhausted.

Independent Fair Impartial Accessible

Governance & Oversight

The Scheme is overseen by a Board of Directors and an appointed Ombudsman. While one Board member has prior experience within the removals industry, the Board acts independently and cannot interfere with how individual disputes are decided.


The Scheme is accessible to both domestic and commercial customers.

Eligibility

Who Can Use the Scheme?

Only removal companies that participate in recognised trade bodies which are members of the Scheme are eligible.

Once a company is signed up:

  • All of their removal activities fall within the Ombudsman's scope
  • They may display the "Ombudsman Scheme Member" logo on their documentation
  • They are required to accept the Ombudsman's decisions

All removal companies featured on Move-Quote.com meet this requirement.

What's Covered

What Types of Complaints Can Be Considered?

The Ombudsman CAN Review

  • Breaches of an agreed Code of Practice
  • Delays or failure to provide the service promised
  • Charges that significantly exceed what was agreed
  • Allegations of unprofessional conduct

The Ombudsman CANNOT Consider

  • Frivolous or vexatious complaints
  • Matters already subject to legal proceedings
  • Complaints handled by another ADR provider
  • Insurance or debt-related matters
  • Complaints involving non-member companies
  • Complaints submitted outside the time limits
The Process

How the Process Works

If a problem occurs during a removal or storage service

1

Contact the Removal Company First

The issue must first be raised directly with the removal company, using their internal complaints procedure

2

Escalate to the Ombudsman

If the matter cannot be resolved, the Ombudsman can then review the complaint

3

Mediation Attempt

The Ombudsman will attempt to reach agreement between both parties

4

Final Decision

If agreement isn't possible, the Ombudsman may recommend compensation or decide that no further action is required

The process is intended to be straightforward, fair, and proportionate.

Your Rights

Ombudsman Decisions & Your Rights

Any decision made by the Ombudsman is binding on the removal company, but not binding on you as the consumer.

If you choose not to accept the decision:

  • Your legal rights are unaffected
  • You remain free to pursue the matter through the courts
Using the Ombudsman Scheme does not remove or limit your rights in any way.

Learn More

For full details about the Removals Industry Ombudsman Scheme, including guidance and procedures, visit the official website:

Visit removalsombudsman.co.uk