The Family
Four generations of the Johnson family, one unwavering commitment to service since 1870.
The Johnson Family — Generations of Moving Expertise
The story of Hardakers is the story of a family dedicated to service. For generations, the Johnson family has been at the helm of Hull's most trusted removal company, guiding it through periods of change and growth while always staying true to the founding principles of hard work, integrity, and care.
When Hardakers was established in 1870, it began as a modest local operation. Over the decades, each generation has built upon the work of those who came before — expanding the range of services and modernising operations while preserving the personal touch that sets Hardakers apart.
Key Moments in Hardakers' History
Hardakers Founded in Hull
The Hardaker family establishes a modest local removal business in Hull, serving the families and businesses of a booming port city.
A Family Tradition
The business passes through four generations of the Hardaker family, surviving two World Wars and building a reputation for care, quality and a straightforward approach.
The Johnson Era Begins
Richard and Jacqui Johnson acquire the company, maintaining the family-run spirit whilst investing in modern equipment, new vehicles and staff training.
Expansion & Modernisation
An 18-ton truck joins the fleet, storage facilities expand, and new services including international relocations and specialist removals are added — without losing the personal approach.
Still Family, Still Five Stars
With a 4.7/5 Google rating from 250+ reviews and a loyal team that feels like family, Richard, Jacqui and Sam continue the legacy every day.
Meet the Directors
Three people at the helm, steering Hardakers with the same care the Johnson family has shown for over two decades.
Richard & Jacqui Johnson
Today, Hardakers is led by Managing Directors Richard and Jacqui Johnson, who continue the proud family tradition together. Richard grew up in the business, learning the trade from the ground up. His deep understanding of the removals industry, combined with Jacqui's focus on customer care and operations, has seen Hardakers continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
Under their leadership, Hardakers has invested in modern vehicles, expanded its storage facilities, and developed new services including international relocations and specialist removals. At the same time, Richard and Jacqui have ensured that the company remains true to its roots — a family business where every customer is treated as an individual and every move matters.
Sam Knight
Working alongside Richard and Jacqui is Director Sam Knight, who has been integral to the Hardakers team for many years. Sam brings hands-on experience, operational know-how and a genuine passion for getting every move right.
Together with the Managing Directors and our experienced Removals Team, Sam helps keep the family-run spirit of Hardakers alive on every job — making sure that what we promise during the survey is exactly what our customers get on move day.
“Our family name is on every move we do. That's why quality is never optional — it's the whole point. Every customer, every box, every time.
A Family Business at Heart
Multi-Generational
A family business with four generations of accumulated expertise behind every move.
Hands-On Leadership
The Directors are on the phones, at the surveys and involved in every move — no faceless management.
Traditional Values
The care, reliability and honesty of a bygone era — delivered with the equipment and training of today.
Rooted in Hull
Based in Hull for over 150 years — proud of our city, our community, and the people we serve.
The Next Chapter
As Hardakers moves forward, the Johnson family remains committed to the same values that have sustained the business for over 150 years. We continue to invest in our team, our equipment, and our facilities, ensuring that every customer receives the very best service. The family name is our guarantee of quality, and we are proud to carry it into the future.
Move With a Family You Can Trust
Over 150 years of care, quality and a straightforward approach — at your service.