A pre-move survey is the critical first step in planning your international move. It determines the volume and weight of your belongings, identifies items requiring special handling, and allows us to provide an accurate, binding quote with no surprises on moving day.
We offer three flexible survey options to suit your schedule, location, and preferences. Whether you prefer the convenience of a self-survey, the personal touch of a video survey, or the thoroughness of an in-home visit, our experienced move consultants will ensure your move is planned with precision.
Why Surveys Matter
The cost of shipping household goods internationally is directly linked to the volume and weight of your shipment. An inaccurate survey leads to incorrect quotes, potential surcharges, and logistical challenges. With over 40 years of experience, we've refined our survey process to capture every detail.
Three Survey Options to Suit Your Needs
Choose the survey method that works best for your situation, schedule, and comfort level.
Self-Survey
Online Form
Complete a detailed online inventory form at your own pace, any time of day or night. Our intelligent form guides you room by room.
What You'll Provide:
- Number of rooms and key items (beds, sofas, appliances)
- Fragile, high-value, or awkward pieces (artwork, pianos, safes)
- Access details (stairs, lifts, parking distance)
- Photos of special items (optional but recommended)
Best For:
Smaller moves, repeat customers, or when you already know exactly what's going.
Video Survey
Live Virtual Call
Connect with a move consultant via WhatsApp, Zoom, or FaceTime. Walk them through your home in real-time for an interactive assessment.
During Your Video Survey:
- Walk through each room, garage, garden, and storage area
- Estimate volume in real-time with expert guidance
- Identify packing needs and special handling requirements
- Check access constraints and parking requirements
Best For:
Busy schedules, remote locations, or when you want expert guidance without an in-person visit.
In-Home Survey
Personal Visit
An experienced consultant visits your home in person for the most thorough and accurate assessment possible.
What Our Consultant Will Do:
- Walk through room by room to measure and estimate volume
- Note items needing disassembly, crating, or extra protection
- Check stairs, lifts, access, parking, and restrictions
- Discuss packing options and additional services
Best For:
Larger households, complex access, high-value shipments, or international moves requiring maximum accuracy.
Survey Methods Compared
| Feature | Self-Survey | Video Survey | In-Home Survey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy Level | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Convenience | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Time Required | 20-30 min | 30-45 min | 45-90 min |
| Scheduling Flexibility | 24/7 | Business hours | By appointment |
| Expert Guidance | |||
| Access Assessment | Self-reported | Visual check | Physical inspection |
| Special Items Assessment | Limited | Good | Comprehensive |
| Technology Required | Web browser | Smartphone + stable internet | None |
| Best For | Small moves, repeat customers | Remote locations, busy schedules | Large or complex international moves |
What We Assess During Every Survey
Regardless of the survey method you choose, our goal is to capture a complete picture of your move. Here's what we evaluate:
Volume & Weight
We calculate the total cubic metres and estimated weight of your shipment, which determines whether you need a sole-use container or can share space via groupage shipping.
Special Handling Items
Pianos, artwork, antiques, fragile items, and oversized furniture requiring custom crating or additional insurance coverage.
Packing Requirements
Full professional packing, partial packing (fragile items only), or owner-packed options and their implications for your move.
Access & Logistics
Stairs, lifts, narrow doorways, parking restrictions, and any obstacles that could affect loading and delivery.
Customs & Quarantine
Items that may require special documentation, cleaning, or treatment for customs clearance at your destination.
Condition Documentation
Photos and notes on existing condition of valuable items to support any future insurance claims.
Common Survey Pitfalls to Avoid
Over 40 years in the industry, we've seen how small oversights during surveys can lead to big problems on moving day. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:
Forgetting Hidden Storage Areas
Attics, garages, garden sheds, under-bed storage, and off-site storage units are frequently forgotten during surveys. These areas often contain significant volume that impacts your quote.
Tip: Walk through every storage area before your survey, including outdoor spaces and off-site units.
Underestimating Small Items
Books, kitchenware, linens, and personal effects add up quickly. A single bookcase worth of books can add 1-2 cubic metres to your shipment.
Tip: Use our volume calculator to estimate the space your smaller items will occupy.
Not Mentioning Access Challenges
Narrow driveways, multiple flights of stairs, no lift access, or parking restrictions can significantly impact the time and cost of your move.
Tip: Be upfront about any access issues at both origin and destination addresses.
Poor Video Quality on Virtual Surveys
Weak internet connections, shaky camera work, or poor lighting can make it difficult for consultants to accurately assess your belongings.
Tip: Ensure good WiFi, natural lighting, and take your time moving through each room slowly.
Not Declaring High-Value Items
Artwork, jewellery, collectibles, and electronics over a certain value must be declared for proper insurance coverage. Undeclared items may not be covered in the event of a claim.
Tip: Make a list of all items valued over $1,000 and discuss them during your survey.
Which Survey Method Should You Choose?
Choose Self-Survey If:
- You have a smaller shipment (under 10 cubic metres)
- You've moved internationally before and understand the process
- You have a clear inventory and no complex items
- Your schedule makes live calls difficult
Choose Video Survey If:
- You want expert guidance but can't accommodate an in-person visit
- You live in a remote area or far from our offices
- You have a medium-sized household (10-30 cubic metres)
- You have reliable internet and a smartphone
Choose In-Home Survey If:
- You have a large household (over 30 cubic metres)
- You have high-value items requiring custom crating
- Your property has complex access (multiple levels, narrow spaces)
- You're shipping a full container or have significant volume
- You want the highest accuracy and personal consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Survey?
Choose the survey method that suits you best and take the first step toward your stress-free international move. Our team is ready to help.