The bailiff comes in many forms and with many different authorities.  He can be instructed from many sources and may collect upon parking fines, CSA arrears, outstanding CCJs or council tax arrears.  However polite and reasonable he appears to be, make no mistake the bailiff comes with intent to seek out your goods, secure them under this control and sell them if necessary. 

The bailiff is used by a large number of sources and his powers will differ in each case.  But only you can take action to secure your property from the reach of the bailiff.  Seek suspension of the writ, negotiate repayments or claim compensation from the bailiff are all options open to you.  Doing nothing is the worst possible solution.  That makes the job of the bailiff easy.

There are limitations to the powers of the bailiff.  They cannot force entry usually.  You should not let them in.  If you do so they will compile an inventory of your goods and place them in walking possession so you cannot remove them lawfully.

Some bailiffs do exceed their powers.  You can claim compensation from the bailiff who acts unlawfully.  You can claim back what was taken and seek compensation for the inconvenience in addition.  There are set procedures but all is not lost merely because you have paid.