Video or In-Person property valuation: What Are the Pros and Cons?
Estimating Your Household Goods
When planning a move, estimating the volume and necessary resources is a crucial step. This is done through a survey, where a moving consultant takes stock of your household items. Today, this can be done in two ways: an in-person survey at your home or a video survey. But what are the differences, advantages, and drawbacks? And how exactly does it work? We’re happy to explain.
What is a property valuation?
A property valuation is an essential part of preparing for your move. It gives both the mover and the customer a clear picture of what is needed for a smooth relocation — from the number of boxes and the size of the moving truck to any special requirements. Depending on your preference and situation, this survey can be carried out in two ways: in person at your home or via a video call.
In-Person Property Valuation: Pros and Cons
An in-person survey means a moving consultant visits your home to assess your household items.
Advantages:
- Personal contact: The consultant not only sees your items but also gains a better understanding of your specific needs and situation. You can ask questions and clarify things on the spot.
- Complete oversight: Being physically present helps ensure that nothing is missed — from attic spaces to sloped ceilings and hidden storage.
- Relationship building: The interaction tends to be more personal, which can build trust and a sense of involvement.
Disadvantages:
- Time and travel: Scheduling and commuting can take more time. This is less efficient for the mover and may lead to extra costs that are passed on.
- Unexpected issues: Factors like poor hygiene or pets can complicate the assessment.
Video Survey: Pros and Cons
A video survey is conducted remotely via a video call. You walk through your home with a phone or tablet while the moving consultant watches via your camera.
Advantages:
- Efficient and flexible: No travel time, lower costs, and easy to schedule — even in the evening or on weekends.
- Eco-friendly: Fewer travel movements mean a smaller environmental footprint.
- Quick turnaround: Video surveys can often be scheduled faster, ideal if you're in a hurry.
Disadvantages:
- Tech-dependent: Not everyone is tech-savvy. Older clients or those without good equipment may struggle with the process.
- Limited visibility: While the consultant can guide you, it's sometimes hard to capture everything clearly. Rooms may be skipped or details (like crawl spaces or attic nooks) missed.
How Does It Work?
For a video survey, the process looks like this:
- Request: You submit a request and schedule a video appointment.
- Introduction: The moving consultant introduces themselves and explains the process.
- Virtual walkthrough: Using your phone or tablet, you walk through your home as the consultant asks questions and gives instructions — for example, “Tilt the camera up” or “Show me the space under the stairs.”
- Assessment and next steps: The consultant estimates the volume and discusses next steps. If needed, a follow-up in-person survey can still be arranged.
Tijdens stap 4 worden ook de verhuiswensen van de klant besproken. Denk hierbij aan het zelf inpakken van verhuisdozen of het laten in- en uitpakken. Hoe is de bereikbaarheid van de verhuiswagen op zowel het laad- als losadres? Kan de inboedel 1-op-1 over, of moet er tijdelijk opgeslagen worden? Bij een verhuizing buiten de EU dienen er exportdocumenten opgemaakt te worden; hiertoe moeten er diverse documenten aangeleverd te worden door de klant.
For an in-person survey, the process is similar, but the consultant does all the inspection themselves on-site.
The Choice Is Yours
At Halo Removal Logistics, along with our sister companies De Jong Verhuizingen and Zoer Verhuizingen , you always have the choice between a physical survey or a video survey. Both options are free of obligation, and we’ll work with you to determine what’s most practical. Sometimes a hybrid approach works best: a quick video assessment followed by a physical check if needed.
Whether you choose a video call or an in-person visit, what matters most is that you feel confident in your decision. After all, moving is a big step. It’s about your belongings — and your trust in the moving company.
Need a survey soon or want more information? Feel free to get in touch with us. We’re happy to help!
