Recycling, donating, or selling old office equipment are ideal ways to dispose of the outdated or underutilized goods. Recycling benefits the environment as well as the company, since it promotes an eco-friendly image. Here are six ways to best dispose of unwanted office goods.

Following environmentally friendly business practices begins with recycling old office equipment. Retailers frequently accept used electronics for free. E-waste can also be disposed of at the local sanitation department during certain periods of the year.

Businesses should consider recycling their used equipment for a number of valid reasons. Companies lessen pollution when they recycle old printers, scanners, and copiers. These types of equipment contain mercury, arsenic, and lead—which can pollute the soil and leach into the water supply.

Companies also save on energy when they recycle or repurpose equipment. By utilizing the office goods to their max, businesses help save on the energy invested into manufacturing new office equipment as well as the energy associated with disposing of old materials.

Donating old office equipment, such as computers, scanners, and copiers, to charities is another benefit. Companies that give their old electronics away to qualified charities are eligible to receive tax breaks. The donations may be considered in-kind donations for tax purposes.

What types of office equipment can be recycled?

Office employees use a wide range of office equipment that can be recycled. Computers and electronics are obviously recyclable items. Furniture, too, is a type of office equipment that can be repurposed. Even smaller items without significant value can be successfully recycled.

Books have value and can be donated to charity. Paper and plastic products as well as packing materials are other types of office equipment that businesses should recycle. Batteries, especially, should be recycled, since they contain harmful chemicals that should be kept out of the environment.

1. Drop off equipment at recycling centers

Recycling any of the abovementioned office equipment can be done by bringing them to a local recycling center. Learn the recycling regulations, which can vary between centers. Call ahead to know what can or cannot be recycled in a specific geographic location.

Prior to taking the old equipment to the recycling centers, wipe the devices clean of personal and business information. Instead of hauling the equipment to the recycling center, busy company managers might also consider having a specialist from an office clean-out company come to them.

2. Utilize recycling programs

Leading manufacturers and brands offer recycling programs. Best Buy accepts e-waste in its recycling program. HP, another technology giant, recycles old desktop printers when a new one is purchased. Trade organizations, like MRM, run recycling compliance programs and offer recycling options.

3. Donate the equipment

Discard old office equipment by giving it to a charitable organization. Used furniture, electronics, and supplies are welcomed by charities that use them to cut operating costs or that refurbish them to re-sell at a profit. Consider donating to national charities with local branches.

Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, Goodwill, and Amvets are happy to accept donations of used office equipment. However, each organization has use for certain items; call ahead to determine what goods they will or will not accept. Nationwide drop-off locations make donating convenient.

Consider giving the old office equipment to the local community. Businesses can donate to technical schools and after-school STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) programs. Children learn how to code on these old machines. High school theaters use goods, like phones, as props.

Here is a list of location in Chicago that accepts used furniture.

4. Repurpose office equipment

Outdated office goods may have little value to growing companies—however, old tablets and laptops can have incredible value to temps, interns, and contractors. Employees are not unknown to giving old computers and other hand-me-down equipment to their school-aged children.

5. Sell to employees

Business managers have the option of selling old equipment to employees. An office worker may be willing to buy a used office chair for $25, for instance, or have use for an old filing cabinet in their home office. Selling old equipment at a discount is a win for everyone.

6. Reach out to used furniture companies

Listing old office desks and chairs online can attract interest from used furniture companies. Resellers will also haul the goods away, sometimes charging a nominal price to do so. Try to negotiate a lump sum to dispose of all the furniture at once.

Whether companies recycle or donate old office equipment, they make a favorable impression. Companies that do their part to help preserve the environment are supported by environmentally conscious customers. Selling the equipment to employees at a markdown also inspires goodwill.

Discarding old office equipment can mean that companies are making room for updated equipment. If your commercial business has plans to renovate, you’ll need a professional office mover, like Chicago Office Movers, to help move the furniture, labs, equipment, and other machinery.

We offer a wide range of office relocation services to corporations that are in the midst of relocating, renovating, or constructing additional spaces to their commercial building. Convenient storage services are provided to businesses that need secure storage for large pieces of equipment and furniture.

Once your office goods are ready to come out of storage, our moving crews will carefully transport them to your building. Moving teams are also experienced in installation and assembly, so we can ensure your equipment is installed and ready to be used without further disruption to business operations.

The office equipment stored in our secure storage facilities is recorded in an inventory list, so you can keep track of your items. Our moving specialists are also available to guide businesses as they plan a move, transfer office goods, or decommission a leased space in preparation for a relocation.

Chicago Office Movers has relocated businesses of all sizes in Chicago, Illinois. Our dedicated crews have helped government agencies, commercial businesses, and educational facilities with their relocation and remodeling needs.

Give us a call at 312-244-2246 or fill out a contact form to receive a free estimate regarding your next move or furniture donation.

Relocating to a new office is a major event, one that can be equally exciting and stressful. While bundling up the files and office knickknacks is a straightforward process, packing the fragile electronics requires a more sensitive approach. Here’s how to safely pack electronics of all sorts.

Digital technology has overtaken the workplace. Offices are equipped with a variety of essential forms of electronics, and their usage is important to the daily functioning of the business. Electronics in the office streamline workflow, facilitate business tasks, and free up office space.

No matter whether the office is a one-man show or a major enterprise, electronic equipment will be necessary in the new workspace. Packing up the electronics should be done with care. These investments will allow businesses of all sizes to continue to boost productivity.

What types of electronics should be safely packed?

Computers are essential for both external and internal communications. The technology allows for the transmission of emails, facilitates internal messaging systems, and allows virtual meetings to take place. Whether the office uses laptops or desktops, the computers should be packed with extra care.

Offices will need to print documents, making the printer another piece of essential office equipment. Scanners, too, allow for paperless functionality with their ability to capture, digitize, and share data. Copiers are multi-use technology with scanning, faxing, and printing capabilities.

Business projectors are still in use in contemporary offices. LED projectors, multimedia projectors, and digital projectors are used during employee training or to make business and marketing proposals. Electronic devices, like paper shredders, destroy sensitive office documents and reduce clutter.

1. Check the owner’s manual

The first step to safely packing any of the abovementioned electronics is to reread the owner’s manual. A manual provides the manufacturer’s tips for safe storage and packing. Follow the guidelines about the level of moisture exposure, outside temperature, and sunlight exposure the goods can handle.

2. Back up important data

Prior to unplugging any of the electronics in preparation for the move, back up office data to the cloud or an external hard drive. Even if the devices are protected in boxes, one misstep during handling can cause costly and irreversible damage. Having data backups is crucial to business continuity.

3. Remove batteries and cartridges

Take out the batteries from remotes or accessories before placing them in moving boxes. Batteries that overheat, corrode, or leak during the office relocation will cause unwanted damage to the electronics. Organize the batteries in one place so that unpacking and reassembly will run smoothly.

If the office utilizes rechargeable batteries, charge them a few days prior to the move. Laser printers will contain toner cartridges that must be removed prior to packing. Secure the toner cartridges in a dust-proof plastic bag and place them in the same moving box as the printer.

4. Unplug and color code cables

Before disassembling the electronics, especially computers with numerous cables, unplug the cables. Reassembly will move quicker by color coding the cables during the packing stage: Adhere a colored sticker to the cord and the same color sticker to where the cord connects to the device.

5. Vacuum electronics

Vacuum the desktop computers with a vacuum cleaner extension to remove lingering dust particles. Practicing this safety tip will prevent dust from shifting and getting trapped during the relocation. Or, as mentioned below, wrap the electronics in linen to minimize dust.

6. Wrap the electronics

Wrap the devices in layers of bubble wrap or towels to further protect them during transit. Tape a sheet of paper over the vents and fans in the electronics to keep loose particles from entering through the openings. Avoid using packing chips, which can cause damaging static electricity buildup.

7. Box the electronics

If the original boxes and packing materials in which the electronics were initially packaged are handy, use them to repack the goods. Other types and sizes of boxes may fail to hold the devices as securely. When the original boxes are unavailable, utilize sturdy boxes and clean paper for wrapping.

Ensure the electronics are tightly packed inside the boxes and the items do not shift. Fill empty spaces with packing materials or bubble wrap. Seal the boxes completely with packing tape to prevent dust particles from entering. Cover the boxed electronics with moving pads or light blankets.

Mark the boxes containing electronics as fragile. Avoid writing the contents on the boxes to prevent attracting thieves, especially if the electronics will be temporarily held in storage. Create an inventory list of the items contained in each box. Unpacking will be faster when components are organized.

Unpack the electronics and turn them on once they reach room temperature at the destination. Following these tips will help ensure the office electronics remain intact throughout transit. Further protect the office equipment by utilizing a professional mover, like Chicago Office Movers.

Work with Chicago Office Movers

We are a locally based commercial mover with a reputation for excellence. Our licensed moving crews have moved businesses of all sizes to, from, and within Chicago. Satisfied customers include major corporations, like Alcatel Lucent, and prestigious universities, like University of Chicago.

Chicago Office Movers handles a wide variety of corporate moves. We are equipped to safely and efficiently move science labs, libraries, heavy electronics, HVAC equipment, and all sizes of office furniture, such as large desks, shelving, and other office items.

Our moving services are comprehensive. Chicago Office Movers provides disassembly services at the site of origin and the setup of office equipment at the destination. We offer storage facilities so that your business can conveniently store office goods until they are ready for transit.

Trust Chicago Office Movers for your upcoming corporate relocation. You will join the ranks of countless satisfied business customers when you choose to work with us. We are available to move your office locally, interstate or internationally.

Contact us at 312-244-2246 for details and to obtain a free moving estimate.

With the economy booming, businesses are thriving across the country. Not only do business owners have the opportunity to grow their small business, but they are able to sustain the growth while hiring more employees.

According to a recent study by CNBC, 10 cities were identified after studying 50 of America’s biggest “boomtowns”. Compared to the others, these cities had the strongest growth in the past 5 years. Taking into account the number of physical locations, employees, and total receipts for non-employers.

Top 10 Cities for Business Growth and Development

10. San Antonio, Texas

In addition to the growing businesses, San Antonio is at the top of the list for one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. With beautiful weather year-round and no income tax for Texas, it’s no surprise that this town is desirable.

It has also grown 11% in terms of the number of thriving businesses as well as 17.5% in the number of paid employees. If you’re currently job searching, you might want to check this place out.

9. Denver, Colorado

This is one of the best cities for small business growth employment. In fact, average wages have increased from $26.50 to $29.40, making it an annual growth of 2.6%. The fastest growing industries in Denver include: science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

While the growth has slowed in the past few months, it continues to climb the business growth scale. There has also been an increase in paid employees of 20% between 2011 and 2016.

8. Fort Myers, Florida

While this town is popular for snow birds and retirees, the business growth has reached 16% between 2011 and 2016. In addition to the business growth, this city has been growing in popularity because of the “work, play, and live” vibe.

In addition, there are a lot of opportunities and the cost of living is very low. To make it even better, the forecasts show that these trends will continue in the future.

7. Boise, Idaho

In addition to this business growth, Boise has been known as the 2^nd top spot for young professionals. The biggest factor in this trend is the climb of living expenses for Seattle and San Francisco. Boise offers a similar climate at a significantly lower rate compared to sister cities.

The number of paid employees has increased almost 19% between 2011 and 2016, according to CNBC.

6. Orlando, Florida

Perhaps due to the growth of so many theme parks like Disney World and Sea World, Americans are flocking to this city in search of jobs. With that, businesses have been thriving here.

In fact, Orlando is ranked as the fastest growing city in Florida in terms of population and housing, employment, and business growth. Top industries for this city include STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).

5. Raleigh, North Carolina

Despite the unfamiliarity by most Americans, many large companies have offices here. There are also a number of large schools in this area, include UNC, Duke, and NC state. In addition, the cost of living is low.

But due to the colleges, Raleigh has many opportunities for both businesses and individuals looking for jobs. It has grown almost 21% in the number of paid employees between 2011 and 2016.

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Not too far south, South Carolina is just a little ahead with the increase of number of businesses up to 13.5% between 2011 and 2016. One of the noticeable inclines in businesses includes independent fast food restaurants, with an improvement of 7% within the last 5 years, according to CRDA.

Along with the steady business incline, new construction has boomed. If you’re looking for a brand-new building for your business, you will have lots to choose from in Charleston, NC.

3. Nashville, Tennessee

Known mostly for its country music streets and venues, Nashville is also making room for growing business in the area. As more people move to this city, its easy to go straight to a concert after work.

According to Patch, Nashville has a diversified economy, having rapid, consistent growth in both size and quality for a number of years. The number of paid employees has also increased almost 21% between 2011 and 2016.

2. Austin, Texas

In addition to business growth, Austin has seen skyrocketing numbers for overall job growth, according to Biz Journals. With all this extra help, businesses have the resources to grow and expand both locally and internationally.

This city has also seen one of the highest growth trends in the number of paid employees: 21.1% between 2011 and 2016.

1. Provo, Utah

Home to the third largest private college, Brigham Young University, and a $16 billion economy, Provo has been ranked by a number of sources as the fastest growing city for business growth and development for 2018.

The New Yorker has proclaimed Provo as “the next Silicon Valley,” with 2 of the world’s 73 private venture-funded companies with valuations over $2 billion. This city is also home to a number of Fortune 500 and multi-million dollar companies, not to mention world-class recreational and sporting facilities.

To top it off, Provo has exceeded national rankings for job growth, affordability, livability, and entrepreneurship.

Moving Your Business

Looking for new opportunities for your business? You should definitely consider one of the cities mentioned above. With these trends, you shouldn’t have any problem with expansion or finding employees in these places.

Just be sure to choose the right moving company as many will not have your best interests in mind. It’s important to find one that has positive reviews, well-established, is insured, and offers each of the services for which you are looking.

Chicago Office Movers

If your business is located in the Chicago metropolitan area, check out Chicago Office Movers. Our union moving professionals are all background-checked, uniformed, licensed, insured, trained, and experienced to provide the moving services you need. We can manage your entire move, including the planning, moving, furniture assembly, heavy equipment moving, and setting up your new office.

Contact Us

From moving long distance to internationally, our commercial movers can move your business forward. Give us a call at 312-244-2246 for a free estimate or fill out a contact form.

Businesses heavily rely on digital technology to conduct daily operations. Offices typically utilize any of three general classifications of computers: thin clients (featuring a mouse, keyboard and screen), standalone computers (laptops or desktops with or without towers) and multiple servers.

No matter what computer device your business uses, when moving day is around the corner, you’ll need to know how to safely pack the equipment.

1. Obtain Proof of Purchase

Take a few necessary steps before you unplug the cords and buy sturdy moving boxes. Gather all the purchase receipts associated with the business computers, software and accessories. Proof of purchase is helpful if the need to verify the cost of replacement arises.

If receipts are unavailable, obtain a professional estimate of the value of your business’ computer equipment. If the office computers are lost or damaged during the relocation and you enroll in the mover’s protection plan, the value of the equipment is compensated.

2. Back Up Data

Important files are irreplaceable. Prior to loading the computer equipment into boxes, back up all the business files, including financial documents, research files, and work data. External hard drives can be a dependable place to back up the business data.

You’ll digitally protect the business’ records in the event the physical computer equipment is lost or damaged during the move. When you start packing, ensure the external hard drive is packed into a box separate from the computer equipment.

3. Be Aware of Climate

Technology equipment is susceptible to variances in weather. Extreme hot and cold conditions can damage electronics. Shortened battery life, warping, cracking, condensation and data loss are possible consequences of dramatic shifts in temperature.

Moving vans are not typically climate-controlled. Keep this fact in mind when you are moving in the subfreezing winter or scorching summer months. If possible, keep the box holding your computer equipment in a temperate environment, like a personal vehicle.

4. Label the Computer Cords

With the advanced preparation out of the way, you can focus on the physical activity of packing the computer equipment.

Electrical cords are an unseen jumble behind a desk. When you are prepared to move, the mess of wires is in full sight. Keep the various cords organized with color coded labels. After relocating, re-assembling the electrical devices is quick and easy.

Prior to unplugging the computer cords, stick-colored labels on each cord. For example, adhere a yellow sticker to the mouse, and another yellow sticker to the mouse’s electrical cord. Perform this step for each of the many wires that enable the computer to function.

5. Visually Record the Setup

At this stage, ideally, you have not unplugged the computer’s electrical wiring. While all the electrical components are plugged in, snap a digital photo of the color-coded setup.

Your smartphone will hold a record of the computer’s mish-mash of wires and serve as a helpful guide when setting up the configuration after the move.

6. Unplug and Pack the Cords

Now that you’ve created a digital map with your camera, the next step is to unplug the computer. Wrap each cord separately using a Velcro wrap to prevent tangles.

7. Buy Dish Pack Boxes

Unlike standard boxes, a dish pack box offers double-layered walls to protect the most fragile of items. The extra thick dish pack box is perfectly suited to move computer equipment. Due to the added layer of protection, dish boxes are also pricier.

8. Pad the Box

The key to preventing breakages in the dish box is padding. Crumpled packing paper is the optimal packing material, because it can easily wedge into corners and thoroughly pad every inch of space. The goal of using ample amounts of paper is to prevent the computer equipment from shifting during the moving process. Layer the bottom of the box with plenty of crumpled paper.

9. Wrap the Equipment

All computer monitors, hard drives and accessories, like keyboards should be wrapped in bubble wrap. Optimally wrap the technology by facing the bubble wrap’s pop side toward the computer equipment, such as the computer screen and tower. Secure the wrapped items with shipping tape.

10. Pack the Computer

Place the heaviest computer equipment on the bottom of the disk pack box, above the bottommost layer of packing paper. Add a second layer of crumpled packing paper to the top of the heaviest items to sandwich them.

The lighter-weighted accessories, like the bubble-wrapped keyboard, should be placed on top of the second layer of crumpled paper in the same box. Add additional layers of fill before adding the lightest of items—the cords.

Once the box is full, look for any empty spaces that could allow for possible shifting when the box is carried. Tightly stuff all empty areas with additional packing paper.

Seal the packed box with double layers of packing tape.

11. Label the Packed Box

The last task is to properly label the box holding the computer. Using a thick marker, write down what room the box should be moved into. Most importantly, write on the box all the contents it holds, i.e., computer, cords and keyboard. Be sure to write “Fragile” on the box.

Work with Chicago Office Movers

When you lack the time to carefully pack the computers in your office, give the task to a reputable, professional mover, like Chicago Office Movers. Our IOMI-certified and insured movers are trained to handle this moving specialty service with safety, security and ease.

Comp-U-Wrap

Specializing in commercial moves, Chicago Office Movers carefully packs your business’ computer equipment using protective, anti-static bubble-filled bags, known as Comp-U-Wrap. This eco-friendly option allows us to streamline not only the packing process, but overall downtime as we move the rest of your items.

Our experience in quickly and efficiently packing and moving miscellaneous office goods, furniture, and machinery solidifies our local reputation for professional excellence.

Serving the needs of Chicagoland for over 35 years, Chicago Office Movers is qualified to handle packing computer equipment and other office possessions using Comp-U-Wrap bubblewrap. No job is too small or too large for our dedicated movers.

Get a Free Estimate

Chicago Office Movers offers a free estimate on professional packing and moving services for local businesses. Give us a call at (312) 244-2246.