Build a room-by-room working list
Walk through each room and group similar items. Record furniture, appliances, packed cartons and unusually large pieces. The aim is a useful planning picture rather than a final insurance inventory.
- Include garages, lofts, sheds and storage areas where relevant.
- Keep matching cartons or repeated items together.
- Use plain names that another person will understand.
Decide what is actually travelling
Separate the goods that are moving from anything being left, sold or donated. This keeps the estimate focused and prevents an early list from becoming larger than the intended shipment.
- Mark undecided items clearly instead of counting them as confirmed.
- Update quantities when the plan changes.
- Keep items that are not travelling off the enquiry summary.
Flag items that need more detail
Identify large, fragile, awkward or high-care items rather than hiding them inside a broad room total. Note known measurements, whether dismantling may need discussion and any handling concern that still needs checking.
- Describe the item and concern in a short sentence.
- Mark measurements and weights as estimates when they are not confirmed.
- Keep photographs for later discussion where they would help explain the item.
Explain collection access
The working list should also explain how the goods can leave the property. Mention stairs, lifts, parking limits, narrow entrances and the distance between the property and a possible loading position.
- Give the collection postcode or area.
- Note the floor level and whether a lift is available.
- Record access times or restrictions that may need checking.
Describe the receiving end separately
Destination access can be different from collection access, so keep the two sets of notes separate. Record the island or territory, the receiving area and an authorised contact, then identify any destination detail that is still incomplete.
- Do not assume collection or delivery is included.
- Keep receiver details separate from package descriptions.
- Wait for checked instructions before arranging a handover.
Carry one clear estimate into the enquiry
Review quantities, estimated measurements and access notes before carrying the inventory into an enquiry. The list should show what is known, what is estimated and what still needs checking; it does not confirm acceptance, price, timing or a booking.
- Do not include passport copies, bank details or payment-card information.
- Keep uncertain items visible rather than guessing.
- Use the same item names in later updates so changes are easy to follow.