The truth about backload removals

Backload removals refers to the practice of removal companies dropping off a load and picking up another on the way back to base. 

The theory is that it saves everyone time and money. Removalists are able to charge lower rates for a backloaded service because they were going to the area anyway and would prefer to return with a loaded truck than an empty one.

The truth about backloading

The truth is actually far removed from this theory, according to Jan Hanley from the Australian Furniture Removers Association. 

"Backloading is something of a myth," she says. "The odd backyard operator might consider it to make a bit on the side, but no respectable removalists will do it. 

"And no sensible business owner should ever consider using a removalist who offers to backload to save them money."

Risks of backloading

The key aim of any commercial move is to be out of your old premises and into your new ones quickly and efficiently, so you can resume operating as soon as possible.

But if you engage a backloading service there is no guarantee the removalist will turn up to begin the job at the appointed time. They will have to complete the first job before attending to yours, and if problems arise there could be lengthy delays.

Backloads cost time

You may sit around twiddling your thumbs with your office, warehouse, factory or shop all packed up and ready to go, waiting for a removalist to turn up who is essentially moving your business as an afterthought to another job. 

And once they have picked up your goods, who knows when you will receive them at the other end? Perhaps there are other backload contracts they are hoping to squeeze in along the way. 

Potential problems of backloading 

• Lack of certainty, and therefore hard to plan
• Wasted time
• High number of operational hours lost
• No guarantee of time of arrival 

Business no place for backloading 

The term "backloading" was coined in the days when horses and carts were used to transport goods. It made sense back then to utilise every bit of space in a wagon and a bit of time lost, or uncertain arrival times, were far more acceptable. 

But these days, when days or weeks of lost commercial trading hours could break a business, backloading has no place.

A professional job saves time and money

While the theory of backload removals may sound appealing, the reality is that it can cost your business dearly in downtime and lost productivity.

By using a professional furniture removalist you'll ensure a fast and efficient move from point A to point B – and save money in the long run.