How to Prepare for a Pre-Move Survey: A Step-by-Step Guide

Moving can be a daunting task, filled with endless to-dos and potential hiccups. But one thing that can significantly ease the stress is a pre-move survey. This crucial step allows your moving company to accurately assess your belongings and tailor their services to your specific needs.

Whether you’re opting for a physical, video, telephonic, or form-based survey, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring an effective and efficient experience. Here’s your comprehensive guide to prepping for your pre-move survey:

1. Schedule in Advance

Contact your chosen moving company, like Globe Moving, at least 2-3 weeks before your anticipated move date. This provides ample time for them to schedule the survey and plan your relocation seamlessly.

2. Understand the Survey’s Purpose

The pre-move survey is more than just a headcount of your furniture. It’s a comprehensive assessment that helps the movers:

• Inventory your belongings: Identify everything you’re moving, including delicate or valuable items requiring special care.
• Estimate the volume: Accurately calculate the space your goods will occupy in the moving truck, ensuring the right size vehicle is dispatched.
• Assess logistical needs: Evaluate parking, loading areas, and any potential access challenges at both your current and new home.
• Plan packing and materials: Determine the necessary packing supplies and manpower required for your move.
• Address your concerns: Discuss your moving needs, anxieties, and any specific requests you may have.

3. Prepare Your Home

• Declutter and organize: Decide what you’re taking, storing, donating, or leaving behind. This not only simplifies the survey but also helps you pack more efficiently.
• Accessibility is key: Ensure all rooms, hallways, and storage areas are easily accessible and well-lit.
• Safety first: Secure pets and clear any obstacles that might hinder the surveyor’s movement.

4. Types of Pre-Move Surveys

There are several methods for conducting a pre-move survey, and each has its unique advantages. Let’s take a look at the different types and how you can best prepare for them.

A. Physical Survey

This is the most traditional form of a pre-move survey, where a representative from the moving company visits your home to assess your goods in person.

• Preparation Tips:
  • Declutter: Identify items you will take with you, leave behind, donate, or sell. This will give the surveyor a clear idea of what needs to be packed.
  • Special Items: Point out any fragile, valuable, or bulky items that may need special attention during the move.
  • Accessibility: Ensure all rooms, storage areas, and large furniture pieces are accessible for the surveyor to inspect.

B. Video Survey

A video survey is a convenient option that allows you to walk through your home with a video call, showing the moving consultant your household goods in real time.

• Preparation Tips:
  • Stable Internet: Make sure you have a good internet connection to avoid disruptions during the video call.
  • Good Lighting: Walk through your home with adequate lighting so the surveyor can clearly see your belongings.
  • Camera Angles: Be prepared to show items from different angles. Don’t rush the process; walk through each room carefully.
  • Embarrassing Moments: Ensure your home is tidy before the call. Embarrassing moments like cluttered rooms or personal items in view can be avoided with a little organization.
  • Plan for Disruptions: Inform household members that you’ll be conducting a survey to minimize interruptions during the video call.

C. Telephonic Survey

In some cases, a telephonic survey might be sufficient, especially for smaller moves or when you already have a detailed inventory of your belongings.

• Preparation Tips:
  • Detailed Inventory: Have a list of items ready. If you’re not sure about the size or weight of certain items, provide rough estimates.
  • Discuss Special Needs: Mention any fragile items, large furniture, or other belongings that require special handling.
  • Measure Larger Items: Provide accurate measurements of large or bulky furniture pieces.

D. Filling Out a Survey Form

Some companies offer a form-based survey where you provide details about your household goods by filling out an online form.

• Preparation Tips:
  • Be Thorough: Provide as much detail as possible. Include measurements, item descriptions, and any special requests.
  • Photos or Videos: Attach photos or videos of your belongings, if allowed. This will help the moving company provide a more accurate estimate.
  • Clarify Doubts: If you’re unsure about how to categorize or describe an item, reach out to the moving company for guidance.

5. What to Expect During the Pre-Move Survey

• Walk through your home (physically or virtually) to inspect all items.
• Measure large or bulky items.
• Discuss packing and transport logistics, especially for fragile or valuable items.
• Review access points, parking, and loading spaces for moving day.
• Explain the moving process, timelines, and offer advice on how to make the process smoother.

The pre-move survey typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of your home and the volume of goods. During this time, the surveyor will:

6. How to Make the Most of Your Pre-Move Survey

• Be Honest: Accurately show all items you plan to move. If you forget to show something during the survey, it could lead to inaccurate estimates or issues on moving day.
• Discuss Special Items: If you have particularly valuable or sentimental items, make sure to inform the surveyor so they can take extra care in handling them.
• Show All Rooms: Don’t forget to show attics, basements, garages, or storage units. These areas often contain bulky items that need to be accounted for.
• Prepare Questions: Jot down any questions or concerns you have about the moving process, transportation, or costs, and ask them during the survey. Feel free to ask about the packing materials, insurance options any potential challenges with your move.

• Discuss timelines and expectations: Confirm packing and moving dates, delivery schedules, and any specific requests you may have.
• Use the survey to evaluate the mover: Do just go by printed brochures or fancy websites, evaluate your mover by asking about the company’s history, experience, crew, financial stability, accreditations, references, and infrastructure. This is your chance to gauge their professionalism and suitability for your move.

7. Final Thoughts: Why Preparation Is Key

The success of your move often hinges on the pre-move survey. By preparing thoroughly, you can ensure that the movers have all the information they need to provide an accurate estimate and plan for your relocation. Whether you opt for a physical, video, telephonic survey, or simply fill out a form, your proactive approach can make all the difference.

Pro Tips: By providing the same information to each mover, you can compare quotes on a level playing field and make the best choice for your move.

By following these tips, you can transform the pre-move survey from a mere formality into a valuable opportunity to plan your move effectively and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.