When you contact a moving company, the first step before any quote is confirmed should be a pre-move survey. This is when a representative from the moving company visits your home or office to assess what needs to be moved. It might seem like an optional formality, but skipping it is one of the most common causes of moving day surprises — both for customers and movers.
What Happens During a Pre-Move Survey?
A trained estimator or senior packer visits your premises and walks through every room with you. They assess the volume and weight of your belongings, the type of items that need special handling, access constraints at pickup and delivery locations, and the best packing and transport approach for your specific move.
- Room-by-room inventory of all items to be moved
- Identification of fragile, heavy, or bulky items
- Assessment of parking space for the truck at both locations
- Checking for elevator access, staircase width, or floor restrictions
- Identification of items to be left behind or donated
Why a Survey Leads to a More Accurate Quote
Moving quotes based on a phone call or description are estimates. Moving quotes based on a physical survey are far more accurate because the estimator can see the actual volume of belongings, check the condition and size of large furniture, identify special-handling needs like pianos, and understand access constraints that affect time and labor.
Without a survey, companies often under-quote to win the job, then charge extras on moving day for additional labor, extra boxes, or special equipment. A survey prevents these hidden charges.
What a Survey Reveals That You Might Miss
An experienced surveyor often catches things homeowners overlook. They may notice that a sofa is too large to go through a doorway and will need disassembly. They may identify that heavy gym equipment needs special lifting tools. They may realize that a large wardrobe cannot fit in the elevator and will need to go down the staircase — affecting time and the size of crew needed.
Virtual Surveys: An Option for Long-Distance Moves
If a physical survey is not possible — for example, if you are relocating from another city — a video survey via WhatsApp or a video call is the next best option. You walk the estimator through your home on video, showing all rooms and items. This is far better than a phone estimate alone.
How to Prepare for a Pre-Move Survey
- Decide in advance what you are taking and what you are leaving behind
- Show the surveyor every room, including storage areas, attic, and garage
- Mention any fragile, high-value, or sentimental items explicitly
- Ask about packing materials, insurance, and the number of crew members
- Request a written quote after the survey — never rely on verbal estimates
Book a Free Survey with Aone Packers and Movers
Aone Packers and Movers offers free pre-move surveys for all local and long-distance moves. Our trained estimators visit your home, assess your belongings, and provide a transparent, itemized quote with no hidden charges. Contact us today to schedule your survey.
