How to describe a task so you get accurate price offers

Why the description drives the price

A provider reading your task is trying to answer three questions: how long will it take, what do I need to bring, and is anything likely to cause trouble? The more of that is clear up front, the less the provider has to pad their price.

Vague tasks often end up priced high just in case – or lead to a discussion on site. Neither helps anyone.

Five things every description should include

• What needs doing – concretely. “Carry six moving boxes and a sofa from the third floor to a trailer” says more than “moving help”.
• Amount and size – number of items, rough dimensions or area.
• Conditions on site – floor, lift or stairs, distance to parking, tight passages.
• What you provide – tools, materials, trailer, cleaning products.
• Timing – when suits you and whether it is flexible.

Photos say more than words

A couple of pictures often carry more information than a long paragraph. Shoot in daylight, show the whole job and add a close-up of anything unusual – a narrow staircase, a heavy item or damage that needs fixing.

Avoid capturing personal details such as names on doors, post or screens.

Say what is not included

What should not be done matters as much as what should. Should removed items go to a recycling centre, or is carrying them out enough? Should assembled furniture also be put in place? Clear boundaries mean the price offer and the final agreement describe the same thing.

When something changes

If you realise the task is bigger than you thought, say so in the chat before work starts. On POFFIX an approved price never changes in chat; a changed scope needs a new price offer that both of you approve.