Choosing an Export File Type: PDF vs Excel vs Word vs CSV

PDF — the default for a reason

PDF is available on every plan and every format, and it's the one most insurers, movers, and agencies expect to receive. Photos, formatting, and layout are locked in exactly as designed — nothing shifts or reflows on the recipient's end. Use this unless you have a specific reason not to.

Excel — when you want to work with the numbers

A Pro-only option. Useful if you (or an adjuster) want to sort, filter, total, or otherwise manipulate the data directly — for example, summing estimated values by room or category. Photos are included as embedded thumbnails, but the real value of this format is the underlying spreadsheet data.

Word — when you need to edit the document further

Also Pro-only. Useful if you want to add your own notes, cover letter, or additional context directly into the document before sending it, rather than attaching a separate cover email.

CSV — for importing elsewhere

A plain data export with no photos or formatting — rows and columns only. Useful mainly if you want to import your inventory data into another tool (a spreadsheet, an insurance company's own portal that accepts CSV uploads, etc.), not for actually sending as a finished document.

Our recommendation

Start with PDF. Only reach for Excel, Word, or CSV if you have a specific downstream use for the data itself beyond just handing over a finished document.