Business Details
48 Years
experience
Award-Winning House Removals and Storage Services in Kent
Established in 1978, Colin Batt Removals is a family-run, award-winning business rooted in honesty, integrity, and meticulous service. With over 45 years of experience, we specialise in house removals, piano transportation, office relocation, and storage solutions across Kent and beyond. Our team of DBS-checked professionals adheres to British Standards EN 12522 and EN 14873, ensuring the highest levels of care and precision. As members of the British Association of Removers, we combine decades of expertise with continuous training to deliver stress-free moves for residential and commercial clients. Our climate-controlled storage facilities and tailored packing services reflect our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Recognised for excellence through multiple industry awards, we prioritise transparency, full insurance coverage, and a client-centric approach. From local moves to international relocations, our reputation for reliability and exceptional service has been built on generations of trust and dedication to exceeding expectations.
Services
House Removals
Piano Removals
Office Relocation
Storage Solutions
Packing Services
Served areas
- Ashford, Folkestone, Maidstone, Canterbury, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Dover, Deal, Tenterden, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Rochester, Hythe, Sittingborne, Dartford, Faverhsam
Details
- Year established: 1978
- Licensed
- Insured
Highlights and features
- Over 45 years of specialist piano moving experience with international acclaim
- DBS-checked, professionally trained staff with monthly skill development sessions
- Climate-controlled storage facility maintaining optimal temperature and humidity
- Award-winning customer service with documented client testimonials
- Full insurance coverage and British Standards accreditation for complete peace of mind
Associations and certifications
- British Association of Removers
- BS EN 12522
- BS EN 14873
Payment methods
- Cash, Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments, Bank transfers
What people say
Very professional
Great guys
Fantastic job
Highly experienced
Exceeded expectations
Services
House Removals
Our comprehensive house removals service caters to local, national, and international moves. With fully insured transportation and optional packing/unpacking, we handle everything from single items to entire estates. Our DBS-checked team uses specialist equipment for challenging access situations, ensuring safe transit for all belongings including antiques and fragile items.
Piano Removals
Specialist piano removals with over 45 years' experience handling grand and upright pianos. We employ purpose-built equipment and climate-controlled storage for delicate instruments. Our accredited team has relocated historic pianos for institutions like the Royal Collection Trust and even transported Beethoven's original grand piano across Europe.
Office Relocation
End-to-end office relocation service minimising business disruption. We manage full packing, secure transportation, and reinstallation of office equipment and documents. Our project management includes decluttering, document storage solutions, and coordination around client working hours to maintain business continuity during transitions.
Storage Solutions
Climate-controlled and standard storage options available for short or long-term needs. Our Ashford facility features 24-hour surveillance and purpose-built containers protecting furniture, antiques, and sensitive items like pianos and documents. We offer flexible access arrangements and full insurance coverage for stored goods.
Packing Services
Tailored packing solutions from full house services to fragile-only options. We use recyclable materials and export-grade wrapping for international shipments. Our team provides wardrobe containers, bubble wrap, and custom crating while offering self-pack materials and partial assistance for those preferring DIY options.
People
Simon Batt
Owner and Managing Director
Third-generation removals expert with deep industry knowledge, balancing RAF duties as a Typhoon pilot with business leadership. Passionate about maintaining family values while driving innovation in customer service standards.
Andrew Urquhart
Operations and Business Manager
Former premium automotive service manager bringing meticulous quality standards to operations. Coordinates daily activities while ensuring adherence to the company's service excellence principles and client satisfaction commitments.
Emily Martin
Office Manager
Business and Education graduate managing client communications and administrative processes. Provides expert guidance through moving requirements with a focus on customer-centric support and problem-solving.
Colin Batt
Founder
Industry veteran with over 40 years' experience, establishing the company's reputation for excellence. Now serving as Director, he continues shaping strategic direction while mentoring the next generation of removals professionals.
Melanie Batt
Co-Founder
Integral to the business's administrative foundation since inception. Managed office operations while raising the family, witnessing the company's growth from single van to industry leader with international experience.
Questions
Are you insured for high-value item transportation?
Yes, all removals and storage services include full insurance coverage against damage or loss during transit and storage periods.
Can you move large or unusual items?
Our specialist equipment handles grand pianos, antiques, and oversized items. We've relocated historic instruments using cranes and transported furniture to islands by speedboat.
Do you offer packing materials for self-packers?
We supply all necessary packing materials including boxes, bubble wrap, wardrobe containers, and tape at competitive prices for DIY movers.
What areas do you cover for removals?
We operate throughout Kent, London, East Sussex, Surrey, and handle national/international moves upon request with specialist logistics planning.
Are your staff professionally trained?
Our team undergoes monthly training sessions and holds DBS checks. Many staff have decades of experience with specialist piano and antique handling certifications.
Can you store sensitive items like pianos?
Our climate-controlled storage facility maintains optimal temperature and humidity levels specifically designed for musical instruments, antiques, and delicate documents.
Videos
Reviews (34)
Carrie Ward
Jan 18, 2025
Report
Both estimator and removal teams turned up punctually, were courteous friendly and helpful. All very efficient - job done well and in time at all.
Nick May
Jul 18, 2024
Report
We recently hired Colin Batt for our house move and couldn't be happier with the service provided. The moving day was expertly coordinated, making the process completely stress-free for us. The removal team worked tirelessly and delivered an impeccable service. We would absolutely recommend them and use their services again.
Grace Clements
May 15, 2024
Report
I wanted to express my sincere thanks for organizing and handling the move of our piano. The distance from Wales to Kent was considerable, and I've heard nothing but praise from both ends about your team's professionalism and efficiency. Please extend my gratitude to them as well. It has been a pleasure working with you in the officethank you for everything!
Lisa Collins
Apr 20, 2024
Report
We hired Colin Batt Removals for a local house move a few weeks ago, and the experience was great. Communication was smooth leading up to moving day, and the team provided just the right amount of packing boxes and materials. On the day itself, they were outstanding - efficient, effective, and friendly, even helping us pack the final items. All of our belongings and furniture were handled with care, with no damage whatsoever.
They also took great care of both properties, despite the poor weather. The team made the entire moving day stress-free, and I especially appreciated that they returned a week later to collect the packing materials. I highly recommend their services.
They also took great care of both properties, despite the poor weather. The team made the entire moving day stress-free, and I especially appreciated that they returned a week later to collect the packing materials. I highly recommend their services.
Mark Ives
Dec 27, 2021
Report
Sadly they struggle accepting feedback. After damaging my table (2,000 eichholtz table), by an under productive member of the team (3 out 5 we're very good I hasten to add) and despite the manager being defensive I would also add I was willing to go there again. The main reason why I challenged was this took weeks for me being without my table with no communication. Clearly they hold a grudge I think the issue is he massively understated the quote for the job his team started rushing and getting even more disengaged by the boss's decision.
The team in the office lack a back bone and are unable to deal with criticism, and it took days coming back to me. Hiding behind their boss rather than being upfront and honest - weak. I would strongly recommend you go somewhere else where they are able to deal with issues and continue to do business. Oh and despite his belief they are great removals - let's not forget the table got damaged by heavy box being dragged on top and pushed over a polished surface - I would suggest maybe not. Accidents happen I get but attitude and behaviour are a choice - sadly.
The team in the office lack a back bone and are unable to deal with criticism, and it took days coming back to me. Hiding behind their boss rather than being upfront and honest - weak. I would strongly recommend you go somewhere else where they are able to deal with issues and continue to do business. Oh and despite his belief they are great removals - let's not forget the table got damaged by heavy box being dragged on top and pushed over a polished surface - I would suggest maybe not. Accidents happen I get but attitude and behaviour are a choice - sadly.
Nicki Foord
Nov 20, 2021
Report
A very efficient, hard working and polite team. Would definitely recommend. The whole process from quotation to removal day was efficient and well managed.
Nicki Foord
Nov 20, 2021
Report
A very efficient, hard working and polite team. Would definitely recommend. The whole process from quotation to removal day was efficient and well managed.
Paul Wilson
Aug 21, 2021
Report
Very efficient and speedy packing and loading. Superb driving skills- quite how the driver managed to get the lorry into our new drive still amazes me. Some minor knocks and dents to stuff but nothing broken. Great service overall.
Claire Bourne
Jun 25, 2021
Report
The people who undertook the removal were very considerate, courteous, professional and worked without any fuss. There was one difficult incident during the move which involved me liaising with the office staff. Unfortunately they were not as helpful in resolving the issue as I would have expected. Special thanks to Simon, Cain, Hadly and Chris for making the move as straightforward as possible. I would highly recommend this company if you are moving a piano.
Azfar Hamid
Jun 14, 2021
Report
Really good removal company. Made our move on the 26th March really stress free. All boxes and packaging included in the price. The team showed up on the moving day and tackled the move in a very efficient way. No request was too much for them. They took extra care in our new home. James was brilliant and helped move some of the furniture around as well. The quote provided was slightly higher than their competitors but the service provided was worth the additional cost. Thanks team Colin Batt keep up the good work.
Sally Hodgson
Apr 25, 2021
Report
We have used Colin Batt before for our previous move in 2009 and due to their excellent service then, we wanted to use Colin Batt again for this latest move. As usual the move went well and very efficiently carried out during the entire process from initial phone calls (at last minute too!), to emails, to picking up boxes and the actual move. We are half way through the process as our furniture is currently in storage until we finally move into our new home.
But I have every confidence that will also be carried out smoothly. Just to add, the final part of our move has now been completed as the furniture was brought from storage to our new home. Everything went very smoothly and I would be more than happy to recommend/use Colin Batt again.
But I have every confidence that will also be carried out smoothly. Just to add, the final part of our move has now been completed as the furniture was brought from storage to our new home. Everything went very smoothly and I would be more than happy to recommend/use Colin Batt again.
Claire Poile
Apr 24, 2021
Report
The entire experience with Colin Batt Removals has been an excellent one-the team in the office taking bookings were extremely patient with us and very informative. They also ensured we had boxes and tapes delivered in plenty of team. The moving team were amazing; they worked so hard and were so efficient and friendly. I would highly recommend them and would definitely use them again!
Claire Poile
Apr 24, 2021
Report
The entire experience with Colin Batt Removals has been an excellent one-the team in the office taking bookings were extremely patient with us and very informative. They also ensured we had boxes and tapes delivered in plenty of team. The moving team were amazing; they worked so hard and were so efficient and friendly. I would highly recommend them and would definitely use them again!
Claire Grant
Mar 18, 2021
Report
After all the stress leading up to moving, mainly due to lockdown, it was a relief when the team turned up. They just took over and made the whole day go like clockwork. They had plenty of additional packing materials as we had been unsure what to do with some items at the last minute. Nothing was too much trouble. Once we arrived at the new property, again, it all went so smoothly. The team were very helpful and polite. I would definitely use again and I would recommend. Thank you.
Colin William Litten-Brown
Mar 09, 2021
Report
Extremely courteous and efficient service. Great communication and value for money. Would definitely use again and recommend to others.
Samreen Hasnat
Feb 15, 2021
Report
Well they were recommended by a friend who moved weeks before me. I got quote from two more companies and they were expensive. When I told one of them that Colin batt is charging me 500 less of what he quoted me, he said, " may be they will send you only two men to load the things and will have some hidden charges as well". On the day they were on time and there were 4 people. They loaded the things well on time even I was still packing on the day and they also helped me. Other companies charge you for boxes and I got boxes and tape for free. Thank you Colin batt for making my move easy.
Liz Duffy
Dec 03, 2020
Report
Excellent service, we found them friendly, helpful, considerate, and well organised. From start to finish they made our move as 'stress free' as possible and leading up to the move Emily Martin was so supportive and helpful. Service: Local moving
Francine Widdows
Sep 01, 2020
Report
Absolutely brilliant: Such a simple process from start to finish, from the quote to the removal. Was met on the morning by 3 very cheerful removal men, super efficient, and professional. We were quite happy to get stuck in however they were more than happy to do it all themself, making a house move, which is stressful and exhausting enough a much easier process. They took great care of my items, all secured well, no damage, moved it all quickly, asked if there was anything they needed to stay and help us with - going above and beyond the removal duties I expected. I cannot recommend them enough, made the whole process not only easy but pretty fun.
Tracey Elaine Laws
Jul 21, 2020
Report
We moved during lockdown, an epic task in such circumstances. My piano was safely stored between dwellings and the removal of our possessions from storage was completed with competence and efficiency, and courteously. Excellent admin support too with clear and concise information. Many thanks to all!
Anthony Knight
May 27, 2020
Report
We had an upright piano moved from Maidstone to Birchington. The whole experience was excellent. From booking a convenient dated and time for us. The collection and delivery on time and by friendly staff, fantastic. Would highly recommend them.
Rachel Constant-Taylor
Feb 17, 2020
Report
Friendly and efficient office staff
Excellent removal team on the day. Couldnt of done more for us. Very professional and would highly recommend
Excellent removal team on the day. Couldnt of done more for us. Very professional and would highly recommend
Maie Lilley-Ashby
Feb 08, 2020
Report
Colin Batt Removals are a wonderful company who I highly recommend. Extremely helpful and accommodating. They collected my piano without any trouble or damaged being caused to it. Incredibly friendly also.
Nicholas Horn
Nov 14, 2019
Report
Efficient and friendly service for our removal from Kent to Cumbria and storage for six weeks whilst we were out of the country. No items damaged or lost. Highly recommended.
Michelle Emery
Aug 03, 2019
Report
Colin Batts moved us yesterday and they made it so simple and stress-free. They took good care of us and our belongings. Were truly grateful. They provided an excellent service. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a great removal company.
Karina O'Donnell
Sep 29, 2017
Report
They packed and moved my daughters contents from a first floor flat with lots of steps, stored everything for a couple of months and then even helped us load the hire van today as we take everything to my son's new flat. Great price. Great service. Can highly recommend.
James Stockbridge
May 19, 2016
Report
We at Carstairs Pianos have been using Colin Batt Removals for over 35 years to deliver and collect our pianos. There have been many changes to staff over this time, but they are consistently very well trained, careful and polite. We are always very confident when we recommend them to our customers.
Damian Ellacott
May 02, 2016
Report
Used Colin Batt Removals for a recent house move across the UK. Very professional and friendly service far surpassing my expectations based on previous house moves with other companies. I would definitely choose their service again and thoroughly recommend them to anyone moving house. You will not be disappointed and can have full confidence in their quality of service - definitely value for money.
Elaine Jones
Colin Batt Removals moved my family from a 3-bed terrace to a semi-detached house. The whole team did a great job answering my questions, working around a changing move-in date and doing the actual move. The guys on the day were very friendly and helpful throughout a long move. I'd definitely recommend them for your house move.
Stanley Donald
I have used Colin Batt Removals for a number of years now and it is their attention to detail and friendliness that has made my moves as easy and stress free as house moves can be. They are also very competitive. I would have no hesitation in recommending them.
Damian Ellacott
Used Colin Batt Removals for a recent house move across the UK. Very professional and friendly service far surpassing my expectations based on previous house moves with other companies. I would definitely choose their service again and thoroughly recommend them to anyone moving house. You will not be disappointed and can have full confidence in their quality of service - definitely value for money.
Gerald Lee
We were recommended Colin Batt removals for a couple of removals, a very large stone garden table and a house move. Both were approached with same care and consideration, they arrived on time greeted us with a cheeky smile and just got on with it. He is the best bit not a single items were lost or damaged. We have no hesitation in recommending this firm where service is paramount.
Edwin Adams
Wow, what a great bunch. For a friendly, professional and reliable house removals service in Ashford, Canterbury or elsewhere across the Nation, there's no one better. These guys are fantastic.
Emma Sutton
Thank you for all your help getting my parents moved from Kent to Suffolk. Your team have been very helpful.
Chris Bentley
Excellent family-run business. These guys can get a piano anywhere! Great packing and moving service from a polite and hard-working crew. Highly recommended!