The Importance of Using a BAR Member For Your Move
Moving house can be a stressful experience, with factors such as delays, untrained staff, and uninsured removals companies often compounding the pressure.
That’s why it’s essential to choose a professional removals company that is accredited by the British Association of Removers (BAR) — the leading trade association for removals and storage services in the UK.
Hiring a BAR-registered company is one of the best ways to ensure your move goes smoothly, professionally, and with the appropriate safeguards in place.
What Is the BAR and Why Does It Matter?
Membership of a trade association isn’t legally required in the UK removals industry, but BAR membership is a recognised mark of quality. The BAR has represented professional removers for over 100 years and is the only UK trade body in the removals industry recognised by Trading Standards.
Members are required to meet stringent standards, including:
- Regular audits and annual inspections
- Professional staff training
- Ethical business practices
- Clean and well-maintained premises
- Fair, transparent pricing
Importantly, BAR members must adhere to the BAR Code of Practice, which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI). This includes consumer protections not typically available from non-accredited firms.
Key Benefits of Using a BAR-Accredited Removals Company
1. Trusted, High-Quality Service
BAR members are trained professionals who follow industry best practices and undergo regular assessments to ensure compliance. This means your personal belongings will be handled carefully and competently, minimising the risk of damage or loss.
Furthermore, BAR members are trained to support customers regardless of age, disability, or language proficiency, ensuring clear communication and exceptional service throughout the move.
2. Premium Packing Materials and Techniques
BAR-registered movers use specialist packaging materials, such as:
- Double-walled boxes
- Custom crates for delicate or oversized items
- Furniture-grade bubble wrap
- Protective wrapping for fine china and glassware
They also provide packing services and expert advice, helping ensure your items are securely protected during transit.
3. Specialist Vehicles
All BAR members are required to operate roadworthy, purpose-built vehicles that comply with the latest transport regulations.
These vehicles are designed for both short- and long-distance moves and are often equipped to handle access-restricted or difficult-to-reach properties.
4. Comprehensive Insurance Cover
A significant advantage of choosing a BAR member is that they provide standard insurance cover as part of their service, protecting you against damage or loss during the move.
Many members also offer optional enhanced protection for high-value or specialist items, giving you peace of mind throughout the moving process.
5. Added Protection if Things Go Wrong
Even with the most careful planning, sometimes things go wrong. One of the standout benefits of using a BAR member is the additional protections in place:
- Dispute resolution through The Furniture Ombudsman
- Advanced Payment Guarantee (APG) to protect any upfront payments
- Guaranteed moving date with a BAR-registered mover
These safeguards are designed to protect you from financial loss and ensure any issues are resolved fairly and efficiently.
How to Verify if a Removals Company is BAR Registered
There are a few simple ways to check whether a removals company is a legitimate BAR member:
- Look for the BAR badge or logo on their website, vehicles, and uniforms
- Visit the official BAR website and use their member search tool
- Ask the company to provide proof of membership
At R.H. Pardy Moving & Storage, we proudly display our BAR accreditation as a symbol of the professional, trustworthy service we’ve delivered since the 1920s.
Other Accredited Bodies to Know About
In addition to BAR, several other reputable industry organisations operate both nationally and internationally:
- FIDI – Global alliance of certified international movers
- FAIM – Sets the worldwide quality benchmark for international relocations
- NGRS – National Guild of Removers & Storers, promoting quality assurance in the UK
- OMNI – Global network of independent international relocation companies
- IAM – Represents over 2,000 movers and logistics companies across 170+ countries
Each of these organisations has its own Code of Practice, providing further peace of mind when choosing a removals firm for international or specialist moves.
Looking for a BAR-Registered Removals Company Near You?
While no company can completely eliminate the stress of moving, choosing a BAR-accredited removal company significantly reduces the risks involved and increases your likelihood of a smooth, professional experience.
If any issues arise, you’ll benefit from BAR’s dispute resolution process, payment protection, and industry oversight.
At R.H. Pardy Moving & Storage, our team is fully trained, insured, and BAR-certified, ensuring your belongings — and your experience — are handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
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