Packing up and moving your office is not a fast or easy affair. Most experts recommend starting the process at least six months in advance. Sometimes, it can even take upward of two years! Look at it like this — you’re relocating an entire business, with all of its employees, client information, supplies, products, and equipment. An undertaking like that requires some planning.
How can you ensure that the process flows as smoothly as possible? The answer lies in preparation. It’s best to let professional office movers do the packing for you. They’re trained to get the job done quickly, efficiently, and with the utmost care. However, if that’s just not in the budget, you’ll need some tips on how to pack an office before you do it yourself.
How To Pack Your Office
Furniture
You should carefully disassemble or wrap all of the large furniture. Make sure you empty bookshelves and desks to keep contents safe.
Filing Cabinets
As long as you can lock your vertical filing cabinets, it’s safe to leave files inside. For lateral cabinets, empty the top drawer if the cabinet contains four drawers, and the top two drawers if there are five or more drawers.
Wall Decor
Wrap and pack small pictures, paintings, and bulletin boards. Use shrink wrap or moving pads for the larger items.
Copiers
Contact your manufacturer’s representative well in advance of your move. He or she will prepare the copier for shipment. In addition, you should have your copier serviced after it’s set up in the new location.
Electronics
First, back up all important data. Second, check proper protocol with the IT department or equipment reps. If you’ll be handling electronics as well, it’s crucial to stay organized and label all equipment carefully.
Plants
Even if you’re hiring professional packers, many movers do not move plants — you’ll have to do it yourself. Load your plants at the very end, and ensure they have fresh air.
Clearly Label All Boxes
Try to include the following information, as suggested by Staples:
- Owner’s name
- Contents
- Intended location in the new office
- Specific instructions like “keep away from heat”
- Any special priority during unpacking
Here Are Some Common Packing Supplies You May Need:
- Box cutters
- Boxes
- Shrink wrap
- Bubble wrap
- Paper wrap
- Packing tape and tape guns
If you’re planning an office move in the Houston area, let Ameritex take care of your packing needs. We offer a full-service move option that includes packing and unpacking, on top of our regular office moving services. Our professionals can handle every aspect of your move, leaving you free to operate from your new office.
Contact Ameritex Houston to start planning your office move today, or fill out the form at the top of the page for a complimentary moving quote.
