Movers Cancelled Last Minute? Don’t Panic. Here’s Your Action Plan
It’s the scenario every person moving house dreads. The boxes are packed, the lease is ending, and you’re waiting by the door, coffee in hand. Then the phone rings. It’s your removalist. They’ve cancelled.
A last-minute cancellation from your moving company can feel like a catastrophe. The stress, the anger, and the sheer panic can be overwhelming. But before you spiral, take a deep breath. This is a solvable problem. While it’s a massive inconvenience, you have options, and you can get through this.
This guide is your emergency action plan. We’ll walk you through exactly what to do, step-by-step, when your movers leave you high and dry.
First Steps: Take a Breath and Take Control
Before you start frantically calling people, take five minutes to get organised. Your immediate actions can make a huge difference.
1. Get it in Writing
If they cancelled over the phone, immediately send them an email or text message to confirm. Say something simple like, “Hi [Company Name], just confirming our phone call at [time] where you informed me you are cancelling our scheduled move for today, [Date], at [Address]. Please confirm you have received this.” This creates a paper trail, which is crucial for getting your deposit back.
2. Review Your Contract or Booking Agreement
Pull up the original quote or contract you signed. Look for the cancellation policy. A reputable company will have clear terms outlining what happens if they cancel. This document is your leverage for a full and immediate refund of any deposit paid.
3. Ask “Why?” and “What’s Your Solution?”
Calmly ask the company why they have cancelled. Was it a truck breakdown, a staffing issue, or something else? While you may not get a straight answer, their reason can be important. More importantly, ask them what solution they can offer. Can they send a different crew later in the day? Do they have a partner company they can recommend? Put the onus back on them to help solve the problem they created.
Your Emergency Plan: Finding a Last-Minute Mover
Your original plan is out the window, so it’s time to find a replacement, fast.
Tap into On-Demand Platforms
These services are built for short-notice jobs and can be a lifesaver.
- Airtasker: Post a job detailing what you need moved, where from, and where to. Be specific about large items (fridge, couch, etc.). You’ll likely get offers within minutes from local people with a ute or van. Check reviews and ratings carefully before accepting an offer.
- Muval: This is a platform specifically for movers. You can enter your details and see if they have any last-minute availability with their network of removalists.
- Local Facebook Groups: Post in your local community or “suburb name” Facebook group. Explain your situation. You’ll often find recommendations for a reliable “man with a van” or a small local moving company that might be able to squeeze you in.
Hit the Phones
Start calling other local removalists directly. Don’t launch into a long story. Be direct: “Hi, I’ve had a last-minute cancellation. Are you by any chance able to do a two-bedroom apartment move from [Suburb A] to [Suburb B] today?” You might get lucky and find a company that has had its own cancellation or has a crew finishing a job early.
Plan B: The Emergency DIY Move
If you can’t find a professional mover at short notice, it’s time to shift to a DIY strategy. It’s not ideal, but it will get you out of your old place.
1. Rent a Vehicle Immediately
Your first call should be to a vehicle rental company.
- Bunnings or Kennards Hire: Both offer ute and van hire by the hour. This is often the quickest and easiest option.
- Budget, Avis, or Thrifty: These companies hire out larger trucks (which you can usually drive on a standard car license) and are great for a full house move. Call them directly to check for same-day availability.
2. Rally the Troops
This is the time to call in every favour you have. Contact friends, family, and neighbours. Explain the emergency and ask if they can spare even an hour or two to help you lift boxes. Be clear about what you need. Most people will be happy to help someone in a genuine bind.
3. Prioritise, Prioritise, Prioritise
You may not be able to move everything in one day. Focus on the absolute essentials: your bed, a few boxes of clothes, toiletries, kitchen essentials, and any valuable or important items. The rest can wait in a storage unit or be moved over the next few days if necessary.
Managing the Fallout
A cancelled move has a knock-on effect. You need to manage the logistics.
- Contact Your Landlord or Real Estate Agent: This is your most important call. Explain the situation immediately. Most agents are reasonable and will understand. Ask if you can have a few extra hours or until the next morning to hand over the keys. Communication is key to avoiding penalties.
- Consider a Storage Unit: If you absolutely have to be out of your old place but can’t move into your new one, hiring a self-storage unit for 24-48 hours is a great temporary solution. It takes the immediate pressure off.
A last-minute moving cancellation is a nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. By staying calm, acting quickly, and knowing your options, you can salvage your moving day and get yourself into your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can movers legally cancel on you?
Yes, a company can cancel a service. However, your contract or booking agreement should dictate the terms. If they cancel, particularly at the last minute, you are entitled to a full refund of any deposit paid as they have failed to provide the agreed-upon service.
Will I get my deposit back if the movers cancel?
You should receive 100% of your deposit back if the moving company cancels on you. They have breached the agreement. Do not accept excuses. If they refuse, refer them to your state’s consumer protection agency.
What’s the best way to find reliable movers quickly?
On-demand platforms like Airtasker and calling local “man with a van” services are often your fastest options for same-day help. Leverage community Facebook groups for trusted local recommendations.
How can I avoid this happening in the future?
Always choose a removalist with a strong track record and plenty of recent, positive reviews. Get a detailed quote and contract in writing. A few days before your move, call the company to re-confirm the date, time, and address. A legitimate, professional company will have no problem with this.