Terms and Conditions
Barnes Man and Van Terms and Conditions
These Terms and Conditions govern the provision of removal and man and van services by Barnes Man and Van. By booking or using our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. Please read them carefully before making a booking.
1. Definitions
In these Terms and Conditions, the following expressions have the meanings set out below.
Client means the individual, business, or organisation booking or receiving services from Barnes Man and Van.
Services means any man and van, removal, transport, loading, unloading, packing, unpacking, or related services provided by Barnes Man and Van.
Goods means the items, belongings, furniture, equipment, or other property that the Client asks us to handle, move, transport, or store.
Contract means the agreement between the Client and Barnes Man and Van, incorporating these Terms and Conditions and any written quotation or booking confirmation.
2. Scope of Services
Barnes Man and Van provides removal and man and van services to residential and commercial clients within the United Kingdom. Our services may include local and regional moves, loading and unloading assistance, transportation of goods, and related handling services. We reserve the right to refuse to carry certain items at our discretion, including items that are hazardous, illegal, perishable, or inadequately packed.
3. Booking Process
3.1 All bookings are subject to availability and acceptance by Barnes Man and Van. A booking is only confirmed once we have provided written confirmation, which may be in the form of a booking note or quotation acceptance.
3.2 When making a booking, the Client must provide accurate information, including the collection and delivery addresses, access details, parking requirements, the nature and quantity of goods, and any special handling needs. The Client is responsible for ensuring that all information supplied is complete and correct.
3.3 Quotations are based on the information provided at the time of enquiry. If the actual work differs from the description supplied, we may adjust the price accordingly. This includes, but is not limited to, additional items, changes to access, delays in loading or unloading, additional journeys, or changes to the service time or date.
3.4 Any time or date for service provision is given in good faith but is not guaranteed unless expressly stated as guaranteed in writing. We will take reasonable steps to meet agreed times but cannot be held liable for delays caused by traffic, weather, road closures, breakdowns, or other events beyond our reasonable control.
4. Quotations and Pricing
4.1 Unless otherwise agreed in writing, quotations are calculated on the basis of the information supplied by the Client, the distance between the collection and delivery locations, the estimated time required, and the number of operatives and vehicles required.
4.2 Quotations may be provided on a fixed price basis or at an hourly rate. Where an hourly rate applies, waiting time and any extensions beyond the initially agreed hours will be charged at the same hourly rate, subject to any minimum charge that may apply.
4.3 Quotations are valid for a limited period as stated on the quotation document. If no period is stated, the quotation is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. We reserve the right to revise quotations after this period or if the scope of work changes.
4.4 Unless expressly stated, our prices do not include insurance for high-value items, packing materials, packing services, dismantling or reassembly of furniture, disconnection or reconnection of appliances, toll charges, congestion charges, parking fees, or storage. These may be added to the price as additional services where agreed.
5. Payments and Charges
5.1 The Client agrees to pay all charges in accordance with the terms set out in the quotation and booking confirmation. Payment terms will be confirmed at the time of booking and may vary depending on the nature and size of the job.
5.2 We may require a deposit or full payment in advance to confirm a booking. Any required deposit will be specified in the quotation or booking confirmation. Until the deposit is received, we are under no obligation to reserve a time or date for the Client.
5.3 Unless otherwise agreed in writing, payment of the balance is due on completion of the services on the same day. For business and commercial clients with approved accounts, alternative payment terms may apply.
5.4 We accept common methods of payment as advised at the time of booking. The Client is responsible for ensuring that payment is made in full and on time. Failure to pay any amount due may result in interest charges and recovery costs.
5.5 If payment is not made when due, Barnes Man and Van reserves the right to suspend or refuse further services and to retain possession of any goods in our control until full payment is received. We may also charge interest on overdue amounts at the statutory rate permitted under UK law.
6. Cancellations, Amendments and Postponements
6.1 If the Client needs to cancel, amend, or postpone a booking, they must notify us as soon as possible. All cancellations and changes are subject to the terms in this section.
6.2 If the Client cancels a booking more than a specified minimum time before the scheduled start time, any deposit paid may be refundable or transferable, subject to our cancellation policy as communicated at the time of booking.
6.3 If the Client cancels within a shorter notice period, a cancellation fee may apply. This may include retention of part or all of any deposit paid, or a charge based on a percentage of the quoted price, to cover allocated time, resources, and any losses incurred.
6.4 Postponements and amendments are subject to availability and may require a revised quotation. If a booking is postponed at short notice, we reserve the right to charge a postponement fee, particularly where staff and vehicles have already been allocated.
6.5 If we are unable to carry out the services on the agreed date or time due to factors within our control, we will offer an alternative date or a refund of any amounts already paid for the affected services. We will not be liable for any indirect or consequential losses arising from such changes.
7. Client Responsibilities
7.1 The Client is responsible for ensuring that there is suitable access at both the collection and delivery locations, including adequate parking for our vehicles, clear walkways, and safe loading and unloading areas.
7.2 The Client must arrange any necessary parking permits or authorisation from local authorities or property managers. Any costs or fines resulting from parking restrictions, lack of permits, or access issues will be chargeable to the Client.
7.3 The Client is responsible for packing their goods safely and securely, unless we have agreed to provide packing services. Items that are fragile, valuable, or delicate should be properly protected and clearly labelled.
7.4 The Client must be present, or ensure a representative is present, at the collection and delivery addresses to provide access, directions, and instructions, and to check that all required items are loaded and delivered. If no one is present, we may at our discretion either cancel the job and charge a fee or proceed based on the information we hold, and we will not be liable for any items not transported as a result.
8. Excluded and Special Items
8.1 We are not obliged to carry any goods that may be hazardous, illegal, dangerous, explosive, corrosive, perishable, or otherwise unsuitable for transport. This includes but is not limited to flammable liquids, gas cylinders, firearms, drugs, and live animals.
8.2 High-value items such as jewellery, cash, important documents, artworks, antiques, or collections should not be packed with general household or office goods unless agreed in writing. The Client is advised to transport such items personally wherever possible.
8.3 If we are requested to carry any items of unusual value or sensitivity, this must be discussed and agreed in advance. Additional conditions, insurance requirements, or charges may apply.
9. Liability and Limitations
9.1 We will exercise reasonable care and skill in providing our services. However, our liability for loss of or damage to goods is subject to the limitations set out in this section.
9.2 Unless otherwise agreed in writing, Barnes Man and Van will not be liable for any loss or damage that arises from the following causes: defective or inadequate packing by the Client, the inherent nature or condition of the goods, normal wear and tear, atmospheric or temperature changes, or handling of items that are unsafe or particularly fragile.
9.3 We will not be responsible for any loss or damage where the goods are not properly packed in containers or materials suitable for transport. We reserve the right to refuse to handle items that we consider improperly packed or unsafe.
9.4 Our liability for direct loss or damage to goods, where proven to be caused by our negligence or breach of contract, will normally be limited to a reasonable figure per job or per item, as stated in the quotation or any separate insurance terms. The Client should inform us in advance if they require enhanced cover for particular items.
9.5 We will not be liable for any indirect or consequential losses, including loss of profit, loss of business, loss of opportunity, or emotional distress, arising from delayed, incomplete, or damaged deliveries, except where such loss is directly caused by our negligence and could reasonably have been foreseen.
9.6 Any claim for loss or damage must be notified to us in writing as soon as reasonably possible and in any event within a reasonable period after completion of the services, so that we can investigate. The Client must provide adequate evidence of the loss or damage and, where applicable, proof of value.
10. Waste and Disposal Regulations
10.1 Barnes Man and Van operates in accordance with applicable UK waste and environmental regulations. We are not a general waste carrier and will only remove items for disposal where this has been expressly agreed as part of the booking.
10.2 The Client must clearly identify any items that are intended for disposal rather than removal. We will not be responsible for any items discarded where the Client has not provided clear instructions.
10.3 Certain materials cannot be collected or disposed of by us, including hazardous waste, chemicals, clinical waste, and items restricted under environmental regulations. The Client is responsible for arranging specialist disposal for such items.
10.4 Where we agree to remove goods for disposal, we will use appropriate facilities and follow relevant regulations. Additional charges may apply for waste transfer, recycling, and disposal services. The Client remains responsible for ensuring that any items presented for disposal may legally be disposed of by us.
11. Delays and Events Beyond Our Control
11.1 We will not be liable for delay or failure to perform our obligations where such delay or failure is due to events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to severe weather, road closures, accidents, vehicle breakdowns, strikes, acts of terrorism, or other emergencies.
11.2 In such circumstances, we will make reasonable efforts to minimise disruption and to rearrange services where possible. The Client will remain responsible for payment for any services already provided, and any rescheduled services will be agreed on a case by case basis.
12. Insurance and Client Cover
12.1 The Client is encouraged to ensure that they have suitable insurance in place for their goods during transit and handling. Standard household or business insurance policies may provide some cover; the Client should check the terms with their insurer.
12.2 Where we arrange or offer additional cover for goods in transit, the scope, limits, and exclusions of such cover will be set out separately. It is the Client’s responsibility to review these details and confirm that they meet their requirements.
13. Complaints and Dispute Resolution
13.1 If the Client has any concerns or complaints about our services, they should raise them with us as soon as possible so that we can seek to resolve the matter promptly.
13.2 We will investigate complaints fairly and aim to respond within a reasonable timeframe. The Client should cooperate with any investigation and supply relevant information or evidence where requested.
13.3 If a dispute cannot be resolved directly, the parties may consider using mediation or another form of alternative dispute resolution before resorting to formal legal proceedings.
14. Data Protection and Privacy
14.1 We will collect and use personal data provided by the Client only as necessary to manage bookings, deliver services, process payments, and meet our legal obligations.
14.2 We will take reasonable steps to protect personal data against unauthorised access, loss, or misuse and will handle such data in accordance with applicable UK data protection laws.
15. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
15.1 These Terms and Conditions, and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them or with our services, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.
15.2 The courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with these Terms and Conditions or the provision of our services.
16. General Provisions
16.1 No variation of these Terms and Conditions will be effective unless agreed in writing by an authorised representative of Barnes Man and Van.
16.2 If any provision of these Terms and Conditions is found by a court or other competent authority to be invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable, that provision shall be removed or limited to the minimum extent necessary, and the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
16.3 Nothing in these Terms and Conditions shall limit or exclude any rights that the Client may have as a consumer under applicable UK consumer protection legislation where such legislation applies.
By booking or using the services of Barnes Man and Van, the Client confirms that they have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.