If you've decided that having someone coordinate your move and save your hassle and sanity, there are still some important tips and considerations you can keep in mind when getting quotes.

• Book Early - you may need to book up to one month ahead.
• Find the right removalist company for you - try and get at least 3 estimates; show each mover the same items to be moved and ask each company the same questions so that you can make a proper comparison. Double check to see whether the company will provide a free quote or charge you for it.
• The removalist will send someone over to your home to review the contents of your home and provide you with an estimate based on this visit. If you are getting rid of a lot of things, be sure to tell the estimator what is or is not being moved as you don't want to be quoted on stuff that isn't going.
• When comparing estimates, remember the cheapest company won't necessarily do the best job. If one estimate is lower than the others, then find out why. Are the services and the mover's experience equivalent?
• Ask friends for recommendations - word of mouth of service, either good or bad goes along way.
• Assess what the reputation and credentials of the company are by asking to see what references and membership or associations the company belongs to.
• You will need to decide whether they will pack or you will pack, and who provides packing boxes and materials. Unless stated otherwise, removalists are not responsible for any damage caused by your packing or to items packed by you.
• Ask about any additional Charges - such as extra pickups or deliveries, bulky articles, special handling, storage fees. 
• Make sure that all charges are documented and included when comparing estimates.
• Some removal companies may load your goods with another consignment; ask whether this is the case and what the pros and cons are for you. 
• Ask how long delivery will take. If you need delivery on or by a certain date, be sure to specify this up front. It may affect the cost of your move.
• Get everything in writing, so that if something goes wrong you're covered and there are no additional 'extras'. Make sure the quote is itemized. If the salesperson mentions over the phone that they will include something that isn't on the written estimate, make sure the estimate is revised before you agree to it! Also take the time to read through the fine print of anything that you sign, and ask lots of questions!
• Make sure you consider car removals and pet transport also.
• When the shipment arrives at your new location, carefully check your inventory list and mark any discrepancies on the driver's inventory list before you sign it. Note any damage to the outside of cartons. 
• Make sure you understand when payments will be required. You don't want an argument with the truck driver the day they arrive!
• You may wish to take out transit and storage insurance. You can obtain these forms from the removal companies or from your insurer. There are a number of different types of insurance covers, make sure you read and understand these carefully if obtaining insurance.

Moving is a great time to re-evaluate what you do and don't want to keep - great time for a garage sale!

Also the less stuff that needs to be packed the lesser the costs will be.