How to get something appraised?

To get a tool appraised, you request an appraisal from a qualified equipment appraiser, provide details and documentation about your tools, and receive a written report stating the value and its intended use. The process is straightforward, but a few details up front make the difference between a useful report and a rough guess.

Start by identifying why you need the appraisal, since the purpose determines the standard of value used. Insurance coverage typically calls for replacement cost, while estate settlement, divorce, or charitable donation usually requires fair market value. Once you know the purpose, gather what you can on each tool or piece of equipment: manufacturer, model and serial number, age, condition, photos, and any documentation of upgrades or accessories. For a full shop or collection, a general inventory list is a good starting point even if you don't have specs for every item.

From there, the appraisal itself typically follows a few steps:

• Submit your request: describe the tools or collection and the reason for the report (insurance, estate, divorce, donation, or resale).
• Scope and documentation: the appraiser confirms the assets, intended use, and timeline, and collects any records or photos needed.
• Valuation: the appraiser completes the assessment online using your documentation, or on-site for larger shop inventories.
• Report delivery: you receive a written, USPAP-compliant report ready for your insurer, court, or tax filing.

Avoid relying on a verbal estimate from a dealer or auctioneer if the report needs to hold up with an insurance carrier, court, or the IRS. A professional tool appraisal documents a defensible value conclusion rather than a ballpark figure, which matters most when the report supports insurance coverage, estate and probate, or a legal proceeding. Most tool appraisals are completed online from photos and records, though on-site visits are available for larger shop inventories.