A Ballards Pre-Move Home Survey is a free consultation carried out either in person or via video call. One of our experienced move consultants will walk through your home with you, assess the items you plan to move, identify any access challenges, and understand your packing or specialist requirements.
Thinks of it as the planning stage that ensure your more is organised, efficient, and completely tailored to your home and schedule. By gathering accurate information early, we can allocate the right vehicle, crew and equipment – helping your moving day run smoothly from start to finish.
What the Pre–Move Survey Covers
The survey focuses on several key areas that shape how your move is planned. Each element helps us build a clear, reliable picture of what you need and how we can best support you.
Your consultant will complete a room‑by‑room inventory of your belongings, noting furniture, boxed items, fragile pieces, and anything requiring special handling.
This allows us to calculate the total volume of your move, which determines the size of the vehicle, the number of crew members, and the time required.
Accurate volume assessment ensures we arrive fully prepared, with no last‑minute changes or unexpected delays.
Access can significantly affect how a move is carried out. During the survey, we assess:
- Tight corners or narrow hallways
- Staircases and landings
- Parking restrictions or limited driveway space
- Long carries from the property to the vehicle
- Access at your destination as well as your current home
Some items need extra care or specialist handling. Your consultant will note anything that requires:
- Fragile or export‑grade packing
- Crating
- Specialist lifting equipment
- Timed disconnection (e.g., appliances)
- Additional crew for heavy or awkward items
This may include antiques, artwork, pianos, large appliances, glass cabinets, gym equipment, and more.
Once we understand your volume, access, and requirements, we create a detailed move plan. This includes:
- Estimated loading and unloading times
- Number of days required for larger moves
- Packing schedules if you choose our packing service
- The most efficient route between properties
- Any preparation needed before moving day
This plan keeps your move organised, predictable, and aligned with your schedule.
How the survey works
Your pre‑move survey will take place at a time that suits you. We offer both in‑person and video call surveys for maximum flexibility.
In-Person Survey
An in‑person survey typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the size of your home. Your consultant will walk through each room with you, discuss packing needs, and assess access points. This option is ideal if you prefer a detailed, hands‑on assessment.
Video Survey
A video survey is quick and convenient. Using your smartphone or tablet, you’ll guide the consultant through your home. A typical video survey takes 15–30 minutes for an average‑sized property and provides all the information needed to plan your move accurately.
How the survey helps you
Because we gather detailed information during the survey, we can provide a clear, fixed‑price quote with no hidden extras.
Every home is different. Your survey allows us to create a plan that fits your property, your belongings, and your schedule – including packing options, timings, vehicle allocation, and any specialist requirements.
Spotting potential issues early means we can prepare the right equipment and crew, preventing delays on moving day. This includes identifying tight access, large furniture, or long carries.
Your consultant can offer practical advice on:
- Packing and preparation
- Decluttering before the move
- Protecting fragile items
- Organising belongings for easier unpacking
- What to expect on moving day
This guidance helps you feel prepared and reduces stress in the lead‑up to your move.
How to Prepare for Your Survey
You don’t need to prepare anything. Simply be available to walk through your home with the consultant – either in person or via video call.
If you want to make the most of the survey, you can:
- Point out any items you’re unsure about moving
- Mention anything you plan to dispose of before moving day
- Highlight items of sentimental or high value
- Let us know if you’re considering storage or packing services
But none of this is essential. We’re here to guide you through the process.
What Happens After the Survey?
Once your survey is complete, we’ll compile all the information into a clear, written quotation. This usually arrives within a few days and includes:
- A fixed price for your move
- A breakdown of services included
- Any optional services (packing, storage, specialist handling)
- Your personalised move plan
- Recommended timings and next steps
You can then review everything in your own time, ask questions, or make adjustments if needed.
Key Takeaways
- A Ballards Pre‑Move Survey is free, simple, and essential for a smooth, well‑planned move.
- It ensures you receive an accurate, fixed‑price quote with no surprises.
- It allows us to tailor your move to your home, belongings, and schedule.
- It identifies challenges early so we can prepare the right crew, vehicle, and equipment.
- It gives you expert guidance and complete peace of mind ahead of moving day.
