Shelving ranges from a few floating shelves to a full pantry or garage system. The wall and the intended load determine the hardware and the time.
Say what the shelves will hold
Describe the intended load: books, dishes, tools or décor. Heavy or point loads need different anchors and spacing than light display shelves. If the shelf must be level with an existing one, mention it.
Describe the wall and location
Note the wall material and whether you can see studs. Floating shelves and heavy loads should fasten into structure. Say which room and whether the shelves go over tile, wallpaper or painted drywall.
Clarify the finish and alignment
Confirm the shelf style and whether you want hardware hidden, brackets painted, or a specific spacing. If shelves must be level across an uneven wall or around obstacles, that is useful to know before quoting.