Episode 41

Moving Matters with Darrel Baker of Humphreys Removals

00:00:00
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00:37:41

March 10th, 2022

37 mins 41 secs

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About this Episode

In this episode Darrel Baker, Director of Humphreys Removals discusses how he began his career some 30 years ago, even though his passion was to be a professional footballer. Starting as a warehouse picker and progressing to forklift driver, operations manager, and estimator at Humphreys Removals, before he and his wife were given the opportunity to purchase the company in 2019.

Today Humphreys Removals provide local, distance, European and International domestic moves, through its network of contractors (BAR members) that Darrel has built up over the years due to Humphreys Removals having no trucks, drivers or porters.

Darrel recalls the wonderfully superb series of The Moving Story, which featured Elite Removals, and was filmed over 2 seasons at Humphreys RemovalsIf you have never watched an episode then I encourage you to find it online if you can.

Darrel had an immediate challenge shortly after taking ownership of Humphreys Removals, Covid, which was then followed by the Stamp Duty holiday, where trying to book a contractor proved problematic unless 4 weeks’ notice was provided!

Due to Darrel starting right at the bottom of Humphreys Removals and progressing through the ranks Darrel wouldn’t change anything from his moving past which he found it quite enjoyable.

Darrel’s highpoint was obviously taking over Humphreys Removals, but he has another too, the people (or characters) within the industry and the friendships created.

Darrel would like to change people’s perception of the moving industry, not just the value but in thinking it’s a straightforward and easy job, when we all know it’s quite the contrary. And I challenge Darrel on perception because when it comes to value, I believe movers need to change, not just the public.

Darrel’s advice to just starting out in the industry again is to take any training opportunities the company is willing to offer with both hands.

In the next 5 years Darrel would like to get his current contractors more involved, more overseas work and to apply for BAR membership. Industry wise, Darrel believes it will get harder, hence why he is trying to diversify his services.

Outside of the industry, Darrel is a season ticket holder with his son at QPR (Queens Park Rangers Football Club), he has a fetish (collection) for trainers, and enjoys socialising, mini-breaks, and spending time with the family. But basically, its just football really!

And as always we end Moving Matters with a funny moving story regarding a fellow packer finishing early.

Enjoy!

Links to Humphreys Removals: