Get the right surveying equipment

Land surveying requires highly specialized equipment. You'll want to make sure you have exactly the right surveying and mapping equipment to get an accurate measurement for your project.

I recommend: SECO Manufacturing Company is one of the world's largest makers of surveying products. Its website offers a wide variety of accessories for GPS and surveying equipment. AGS Geodetic Surveys has surveying and mapping products available for purchase or rent. Additionally, service representatives will provide you with free technical help to ensure your project is a success.

Find the right mapping supplies

Depending on your project, you might not have to conduct a survey. Instead, a good topographical map may give you all the information you need. Topographical maps are available from a variety of sources, including the federal government.

I recommend: The U.S. Geological Survey is the federal government agency charged with producing a national series of topographical maps. Maps can be purchased through the USGS Store. TerraServer is a website that lets you view topographical maps for free. Simply enter an address into the search box on the left side of the home page. You can then pay to download or order a map.

Consult with a professional land surveying company

If your job is large, complex or legal in nature, you'll probably want to at least get advice from one of the nearly 150,000 professional surveyors and cartographers in the United States. Most work with local firms that specialize in providing surveying and mapping services.

I recommend: Owen Haskell Inc. advertises itself as one of the largest full-service surveying companies in New England. The firm provides topographical surveying, engineering surveying and other types of surveying. If your needs are outside of New England, consult the Land Surveyor Reference Page. This website provides a list of land surveying companies, sorted by state.