Using a removal firm
A price agreed only by phone very often changes on the day.
Types of service
- Full-service move — packing through to unpacking. Expensive but easy.
- Semi-packed move — help with part of it.
- Basic move — transport only; you pack.
- Small van moves — for few belongings, common for studio flats.
When contracting
- Get an on-site quote. Phone quotes invite extra charges on the day.
- Get the quote in writing (text or email).
- Check what is and isn't included — ladder truck, air conditioner reinstallation, waste disposal.
- Ask whether damage or loss is compensated.
- Confirm how the deposit and balance are paid.
- Compare quotes from several firms.
On moving day
- Carry valuables yourself — passport, residence card, cash, documents.
- Photograph the condition of your belongings — it helps in a damage dispute.
- Check the property before and after the work.
- Pay the balance only after checking the completed work.
- Get a receipt.
If something goes wrong
- For damage or loss, photograph it at once and tell the firm.
- The quote and receipt put you in a much stronger position.
- If unresolved, consult 1372 (Consumer Counselling Centre).
- You can apply to the Korea Consumer Agency for redress.
Where to go
- 1372 Consumer Counselling Centre
- www.kca.go.kr Korea Consumer Agency
- Community centre (address registration, bulky waste). See arc-address-change.
- 1345 interpretation support
Questions people ask
They demanded extra on the day. If it differs from the written quote, you can refuse. If arguing there is impractical, pay and then consult 1372 — and be sure to get a receipt.
My belongings were damaged. Claim from the firm with photos and the quote. If refused, consult 1372.
What administrative steps go with moving? Address registration and reporting your change of residence. See arc-address-change. Don't forget utilities and internet transfers.
When do I get my deposit back? On the day you move out, as a rule. See move-out-deposit.
Take care
Be wary of firms demanding a large upfront deposit. Without a written quote, resisting extra charges on the day is very hard. Be at the property on moving day — with nobody to check the load, damage and loss are hard to prove.
Related
moving-in · move-out-deposit · large-waste-disposal · arc-address-change · repair-services
Source
Korea Consumer Agency www.kca.go.kr / As of 2026-08