Removals worker
Removals workers move household and office furniture and other items from one location to another.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As part of a team of removals workers, you would:
- check job instructions with customers, listing items to be moved
- remove items like sofas, table, beds, carpets and kitchen appliances
- take apart large pieces of furniture or equipment to make them easier to remove
- pack items, load them into a vehicle and secure them safely
- make sure fragile or sentimental items are handled with care
- drive to the new location and unload items
- fill out inventory documents for items being sent overseas
Working environment
You could work at a client's home, at a client's business or on the road.
Your working environment may be physically active and you'll travel often.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a:
- supervisor, removals co-ordinator or manager
- removals HGV driver
- specialist, for example, working in office or exhibition removals
You might also start your own removals or house clearance company.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- administration skills
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to use your initiative
- knowledge of geography
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
- have a good level of fitness
- pass a medical check
You'll need an LGV licence if you're going to be driving larger removals lorries over 7.5 tonnes.
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
You could apply to do a Removals Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, with a removals firm.
This can take around a year to complete and combines on-the-job training with learning off site.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
More Information
You could apply directly to removals companies and receive on-the-job training. You do not need any particular qualifications to start.
Good customer service skills are important for dealing respectfully with clients and their belongings.
Some jobs combine removals work with driving duties. You may have an advantage if you have a Category C1 licence that allows you to drive vans between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes.
Career tips
Experience of delivery driving or warehouse work could be helpful when applying for jobs.
Further information
You can find out more about a career in removals, including specialist training opportunities, from the British Association of Removers.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.