My custom Harlicks retailed for about $1,000 back in 2016. I was fitted by Phil at the PSA Conference, which gave me a substantial discount. However, the boots arrived extremely late, too big and way too soft. My fitter exchanged them with Harlick for a pair that are supposed to be custom but the *)_^& right boot does not fit correctly. I've had it punched and tweaked, the blades moved, the insoles changed/customized and my ankle tendonitis has migrated from left to right.
I'm now thinking about my next pair of skates, lol. Specifically, I think I no longer need the higher heel since I don't wear high heeled shoes often. Could be part of my issue with these boots.
When Klingbeil was still in Queens, that was a great experience for fittings and adjustments. Unfortunately, the business was sold/closed and both Bill and Don Klingbeil have passed away, so that's not an option.
I have a coaching friend who bought Avantas. She scheduled a fitting at US Nationals with Will, one of the owners. She's happy with them and says they're a lot like Klingbeils, so that's probably my next pair of boots. Have to talk to my skate tech about them at some point.
If you don't have a good skate tech in your area that you can trust, your best bet is to go with the manufacturer's designated rep. If you check their website/social media, you'll see that most of the skate makers attend skating and trade events. If you contact them in advance, they can come prepared to measure/size. They don't have a workshop, so very little in the way of repairs, adjustments or corrections can be done at these events.
Specifically, they set up shop at NEISMA, ISI and PSA trade shows. They usually have a presence at Regionals/Sectionals, but it might just be a sales rep, not a skate tech. At US Nationals and Adult Nationals, one or more vendors have a booth and can arrange for fittings. I don't remember who the vendors were at Synchro Sectionals, but I believe the boot makers have booths at Synchro Nationals. I've also heard, but not seen, that they also attend ISI Worlds, ISI Adult Champs and the National Theater on Ice competitions.