Due to a range of factors, companies may decide to move to more pristine pastures. Upgrading the office space, downsizing, or relocating to an urban area with highly skilled workers are a few reasons companies move. Before handing over the keys, the office must be decommissioned.

The office lease contract defines exactly what is expected of the decommissioning process. Noncompliance with the contract terms can potentially result in forfeiture of the deposit or becoming liable for added costs that could quickly spike to thousands of dollars.

Business owners who initially entered into an office lease contract will have become contractually obligated to abide by the decommissioning requirements. The decommissioning clause describes the precise condition of the office space once the company and its employees vacate it.

The decommissioning process is given the moniker “broom cleaning.” While the process can be as simple as a quick cleanup, oftentimes, the office space must be restored to its original condition. This means removing all belongings and performing necessary repairs.

Common decommissioning requirements include removing data and voice cabling, newly installed plumbing, electrical or mechanical installations, and office furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Business signs, e-waste, and trash must be removed. Hazardous waste must be disposed of, and janitorial services must be canceled.

Planning the decommissioning event well in advance of the upcoming office relocation saves company owners time and money and reduces stress. Last-minute snags can be expected during the decommissioning process. Ensure a smooth relocation by evaluating the condition of the current space.

1. Partner with a commercial moving company

Since the decommissioning process is highly complex, business owners will likely require the support of a trusted partner. Large businesses may have to deal with hundreds of workstations and thousands of pieces of equipment. Working with a partner can speed up the relocation process and save money.

Relocating companies are advised to partner with the right commercial moving company or a transition management company. Either can help the business owner navigate a proper exit. Companies attempting a DIY office decommissioning risk “soft cost exposure” or running out of time.

2. Take an inventory of office goods

Early in the process, company owners should assess the value of the office furniture. Unwanted furniture may be liquidated. Working with a moving partner can ensure the liquidation process is completed in an efficient and timely manner—thereby avoiding unnecessary storage costs.

Once an inventory of office items that will be relocated to the new destination has been taken, communicate this information to the relocation partner. An experienced partner will discard the unwanted goods in an environmentally friendly way, ensuring they stay out of the local landfill.

An inventory should further categorize the items. Certain goods will be moved to the new office, while others will be donated or recycled. Office items with value may be sold. Products that can’t be sold may go into green waste or discarded at hazardous waste facilities.

3. Dispose of unwanted office furniture

Businesses strive for a net positive outcome, where the furniture liquidation yields a positive cash return. Donating office furniture to charities or having a third-party company remove them will result in a net zero outcome; this option avoids costs associated with having the business remove the contents.

A net negative result occurs when office furniture with little or no value is discarded or recycled. However, disposing valueless office items may come with a cost, one that a decommissioning expert can help minimize. Of the three options, discarding unwanted office furniture is oftentimes a last resort.

4. Transfer IT equipment

Businesses staffed with IT teams have plenty of in-house support. The IT personnel should disconnect and pack the technology prior to these items being loaded onto the moving truck. In-house IT staff will handle the deinstallation as well as the complete transfer of the technology.

Companies that are not staffed with in-house IT teams can assign the task of transferring the technology to the relocation partner. These professionals will disconnect, pack, move, and reconnect the equipment. They can also sustainably discard e-waste, from old computers to printers and fax machines.

The entire decommissioning process can take up to six months; however, the timeline is influenced by the size of the relocating company. Whether large or small, businesses that plan to move are urged to engage in phased decommissioning to minimize disruptions to employee workflow.

A well-planned decommissioning process will earn back the company’s deposit and avoid extra costs. Partnering with a relocation expert who is experienced in decommissioning offices will also reduce the risk of damage to the property. Relocation experts will offer “broom sweep” services, too.

Office Relocating?

When you are planning an office relocation, consider the decommissioning services provided by Chicago Office Movers. We are a locally based, experienced commercial mover who will ensure that your office space is returned to its original condition and meets the decommissioning terms of the lease.

The decommissioning process is likely to take some time when a business has made major enhancements to the building or installed new equipment after the lease was signed. Regardless of the renovations, Chicago Office Movers will return your office space to its original condition.

Our licensed, bonded, and insured moving crews remove and dispose of unwanted appliances, properly discard hazardous waste (ex, lead paint and asbestos), remove and recycle furniture, replace light bulbs, recycle e-waste, remove signs, clean the entire facility, and repair damaged drywall.

The reliable movers at Chicago Office Movers will also meet with your landlord to clarify all conditions of the decommissioning. Once our crews have returned the space to a pristine condition, we will conduct a final walk through with the property manager, ensuring the decommissioning terms are met.

Contact Us

Numerous satisfied companies partner with Chicago Office Movers for their relocation needs. We are available to provide professional and efficient office decommissioning services. Our crews are proud to serve Chicagoland businesses.

Call us for expert decommissioning or commercial moving services at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO).

The environment and expectations of workers have permanently shifted because of the COVID-19 pandemic. People have adapted to working remotely and many do not want to go back to a life where they have to be in an office on a daily basis. According to the 2021 State of Remote work by Owl Labs, 71% of the employees want a hybrid or remote working style even after the pandemic is over. More and more companies are learning to adjust to these expectations of the employees to stay competitive.

For many companies, one question may come to mind when they are staring at the empty offices: If the entire team is in either a hybrid or remote working environment, would it even make sense to have a dedicated office for their employees? A dedicated office space has many benefits, but on the operational level, the cost and commitment are very high. If the office is not being used full time, it might not be worth the cost. But going fully remote is still not realistic for many companies.

A good in-between is to have coworking spaces for the employees. Coworking spaces increase productivity and create a sense of community while lowering the operational costs, allowing for more mobility and flexibility.

What is Coworking Space?

Coworking space is an office space where employees and entrepreneurs from different companies come together to work in a common office space. People who work in coworking spaces can connect and bounce ideas off of each other, much like traditional office spaces.

Coworking space started out as a way where self-employed individuals and freelancers could get together in a proper working space instead of in a home office, coffee shop, or other places. Since its invention, it has grown slowly over the years and became a global phenomenon. Currently, there are over 23.5k coworking spaces around the world. The number of coworking spaces is growing at a faster rate than before, potentially reaching over 40k by 2024.

Benefits of Coworking Space

Nowadays, coworking spaces are not just for freelancers or individual workers, companies of all sizes are seeing the advantages of coworking spaces. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this coworking trend, and it is not slowing down. Here is a list of some of the main benefits of coworking spaces.

Flexibility and Lower Cost

For companies, one of the downsides to having a traditional office is the long-term commitment. Often, renting out an office requires years of contract and commitment. In this fast-changing society, even a couple of years can mean drastic change for many companies. Coworking spaces have shorter lease periods, often monthly agreements, and some places even offer daily payment options. This means that companies can spend less money on renting out traditional offices, while enjoying many of the same benefits.

Even for large companies that already have traditional office spaces, coworking spaces can still be a money saver. Having coworking spaces can eliminate many costs surrounding unused spaces, reducing overall space needed for a company. With an increase in the number of employees who are either hybrid or remote, this can be a very cost-efficient change.

Both small and large companies can enjoy the in-office flexibility of coworking spaces. Instead of sitting in a cubicle, workers have flexibility in how they want to work in coworking spaces. Common features of coworking spaces include meeting rooms, dedicated workspace, private phone booth, and collaboration spaces.

Community and Networking

Another important part of a coworking space is the sense of community. The coworking culture embraces the social aspect of workplaces, shifting away from the traditional formal and corporate atmosphere. This is also true for big corporations. Even for employees in the same company, they may not have the chance to communicate or bond with people who do not work in their department. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to bond and network in coworking spaces. Professionals working in the same space will form a bond from day-to-day interactions.

On top of that, coworking spaces often organize networking events, such as seminars, workshops, training sessions, and happy hours in the bar. You can find all types of events every day when working in a coworking space. The relationship you build in a coworking space can evolve into new friendships and potential professional opportunities.

Increase Creativity and Productivity

When a coworking space is shared with people from different companies or different departments, it sparks many new possibilities that may not be possible in a traditional office setting. If you need a problem solved, you can quickly start brainstorming sessions with colleagues or friends working in the same space. People with different backgrounds can bring in fresh perspectives you might not have considered before.

For smaller companies, one of the big advantages of a coworking space is that they don’t have to worry about all the amenities. Preparing an office space is not a short process, cutting down on the preparation time adds to the overall productivity. Renting a coworking space can save a ton of time and money in the preparation process. Simply grab your computer and go to a prepared coworking space and start working.

If you are used to working in a coffee shop or in other settings, coworking spaces can increase productivity by providing a dedicated workspace. In a dedicated workspace, people face fewer distractions around them and can focus more on work. When workers are surrounded by people who are passionate about their work, it indirectly increases productivity, linking back to the community culture in a coworking setting.

The demand of workers has shifted considerably over the past couple of years, and it is not going to change any time soon. Of course, coworking space is not the perfect fit for all companies, so it is important to evaluate whether a coworking space is suitable for your company.

Work with an Office Mover

Changing offices is not an easy task. The actual move is also significant and cannot be done without reliable help from a reputable moving company, like Chicago Office Movers.

Chicago Office Movers is experienced in commercial moves of all sizes. We have helped move prestigious area companies and universities, such as Alcatel Lucent and the University of Chicago. Our moving crews handle all office goods, equipment, and furniture securely and carefully.

Whether you are moving locally or interstate, our professional moving team will ensure your sensitive equipment is safeguarded. Our moving trucks feature climate-controlled spaces, lift gates, and air-ride suspensions. Customers also receive tracking information to follow every step of the move.

Relocating companies will also benefit from our climate-controlled long- and short-term storage facilities. Our moving crews are available for packing and unpacking your office goods. If you need help planning the relocation, our experienced corporate moving specialists will provide assistance.

Contact Us

Whether you are moving delicate artwork, fragile lab equipment, or sensitive IT systems, choose Chicago Office Movers. Given our industry experience and excellent reputation, we will help you relocate affordably and on schedule.

Contact us for your upcoming local, long distance or international move at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO).

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.

Just like fashion, office designs change all the time, especially in the past few years. In the olden days, creativity wasn’t given much thought and strict office rules mandating that employees work in their own cubicles made them uncomfortable.

But would you agree that if an employee is spending 8 hours a day, 5 days a week in this office space, they should feel not only comfortable, but motivated, energetic, and relaxed?

By simply making a few adjustments or choosing a modern office space, you may notice some changes in the atmosphere. People will want to work in a fun environment, they will bring more ideas to the table, and they will probably even be more productive.

So if you’re looking to move to an office that offers more design or to change up the current space, here are some office design trends that can make all the difference when it comes to keeping employees happy in the work place.

1. Flexible Spaces

The key to having a flexible space is that it doesn’t restrict furniture from being moved. It allows desks to be adjusted, meeting areas to be easily accessible, and still offer space for employees and customers to move around. Simply working in a different space can make a big difference in productivity and creativity. This can be accomplished by having an open layout or by having movable walls so that the room can be changed into whatever shape is needed at the moment.

For example, if employees need to concentrate on a particular task or their work requires them to have their sound on, they can easily relocate to a meeting room so they won’t interrupt others. Allowing them to work in different spaces can also give them some stimulation while motivating them to become more efficient.

2. Collaborative Furniture

More companies are now realizing that having furniture in collaborative working spaces is important – and a growing trend in the workspace today. As meetings and shared spaces are a vital part of doing business, having furniture that supports these tasks will not only add to the modern design trend but increase productivity.

It’s easy to find collaborative furniture – being that it’s in. There are also various types, including acoustic pods where small meetings can be held conveniently, large meeting desks with outlets so nobody will have to worry about going in with a full battery beforehand, and freestanding media units that allow employees to project their work on a screen, adjustable tables, task lighting, and a lot more.

3. Technology Innovation

If companies haven’t taken advantage of integrating technology into their strategies and daily tasks, they’re falling behind. But why not make it convenient for everyone by mounting a TV to a wall in the meeting room or setting up screen projectors? Keep in mind that technology is constantly being updated, so it’s important to have the right equipment needed in order to work efficiently.

One growing trend for many companies is the use of laptops instead of desktops, so employees can work remotely. Now that work can be taken with them, it’s important for office spaces to be adjusted as well. There should be power around the office that is easily accessible, video conferencing equipment, presentation screens, data ports, smartboards, wireless charging stations, and open seating that allows employees to easily move around without feeling like they’re invading others’ spaces.

Bluetooth technology is becoming increasingly popular in offices due to its convenience and ease of use. With Bluetooth technology, employees can use their mobile devices seamlessly while they're working at their desk or throughout the office without having to worry about cables getting tangled or having limited range between devices like they would if they were connected via USB cables or Wi-Fi network signals. This type of wireless connectivity helps eliminate clutter that can often occur when there are too many cables lying around.

Install acoustic panels on walls where employees spend most of their time (e.g., conference rooms or workstations). Acoustic panels can help reduce noise distractions by absorbing sound waves instead of reflecting them back into an open space. This will help decrease distractions for workers who are trying to concentrate on specific tasks at hand.

4. Natural Designs

Known as a biophilic design, this growing natural design trend focuses on a stress-free environment. Biophilic design is a type of interior design that incorporates natural elements into the built environment. It can be used to reduce stress and improve health, productivity, and well-being. Hence it’s popularity, more and more office designers are integrating this design into their presentations and recommendations for clients.

Popular characteristics of this new trend include large windows that allow natural light to shine in, large, potted plants, organic color, and materials and patterns with natural colors like brown and green. Use plants and water features to bring nature indoors. Plants can reduce stress and improve concentration. They also add color and texture to your office space. Studies have actually shown that this has helped employees to feel more relaxed, focused, and energetic.

Bringing in natural light through windows or skylights can help increase productivity by reducing stress and improving moods. Natural light also helps reduce eye strain from staring at computer screens all day long. This type of lighting is best when it comes from above, since it allows people to see better while they’re working on tasks that require fine motor skills like writing or typing. If you aren’t able to add windows or skylights to your office space, consider adding large mirrors to reflect light into other areas of the room where there may not be enough natural light coming through windows or skylights alone.

5. Comfortable Work Spaces

If employees are not comfortable in their working space, it’s not likely that they will want to come to work. In other words, if they sit in cheap desk chairs or are confined to cubicles all day, they won’t be nearly as successful as they would be if a little more investment was made towards the workspace. When taking the time and energy to create a modern looking, comfortable space for employees, you may notice higher employee satisfaction, lower turnaround rates, and higher productivity.

Some aspects of comfortable working spaces include open seating areas, such as couches where employees can work on their laptops. Some companies are even in ping pong tables, video games, and areas where employees can take power naps to stay energetic.

One of the easiest ways to improve the comfort level of your employees is by providing ergonomic chairs. Ergonomic chairs have been designed specifically with comfort in mind and provide support for both back and neck. This can help prevent muscle discomfort and injury while at work. Ergonomic chairs also include features such as arm support and adjustable backrests, which can help keep an employee’s head at eye level while working at a desk or computer station.

Carpeting and flooring can also help improve employee comfort levels. Carpeting provides extra cushion for those who may be standing for long periods of time during their work day. For example, carpeting could be installed under desks where employees are standing most often or have been standing for prolonged periods of time throughout the day (e.g., retail sales associates). Carpeting can also be installed in break rooms or other areas where employees may spend a lot of time on their feet.

Moving to a New Office?

Whether you’re looking to move for business reasons or simply want a new, innovative working environment, you will want to work with a professional moving company that can handle the process for you. Especially with new furniture or fragile belongings, it’s important that they arrive to your new space in the same condition as before they left. So it’s important to find movers that are experienced, trained, and licensed so you can focus on the benefits of your new office space.

The professionals at Chicago Office Movers not only have over 35 years of experience in the commercial moving industry, but are fully equipped to plan, organize, pack, relocate, and install all of your furniture and equipment at your new location. We ensure to handle all parts of the moving process so you and your employees can stay focused on work with little interruption.

If you are undergoing any office renovations, Chicago Office Movers will proudly relocate and store your furniture during the remodeling process. This will allow you to get that modern office look and not have to worry about your furniture in the process.

Free Estimate

For more information or a free estimate on our office moving services, contact Chicago Office Movers at 312-244-2246 or fill out a contact form. We look forward to working with you soon!

Everyone has to move sometime or another, but seasoned moving customers are well aware that not all moves run smoothly. Professional movers can speed up the moving process, but choosing the right company is also important. If you don't do the research beforehand, a bad moving company can make your moving process even more of a headache. Just as each moving company will differ in their services and prices, it’s extremely important to know what to expect on moving day. So you’ll want to do your homework and research as many vendors as possible.

When researching, keep an eye open for scams and rogue movers, as they will never have your best interest in mind. Once you have a list of movers, here are 11 things to consider when looking for a moving company:

1. Get a Complete Estimate

Any estimator that does a quick walk-through of the building will not catch all of the details when giving you the quote. When calculating, they should ask questions about what exactly you will be bringing with you to your new location. Just be prepared to answer the questions regarding which items will not be going on the truck and will need to be decommissioned:

• Donated
• Thrown away
• Sold
• Left behind to new owners
• Given away
• Transported yourself

Chicago Office Movers can help you with decommissioning items to local non profit organizations.

2. Choose a Company with One Name

You might be surprised to find that a number of companies operate under various names to avoid being assessed by the Better Business Bureau and other online review platforms. Make sure the company has an address that is local and information about their licensing and insurance.

Check for any other name the company “does business as” in addition to their state and federal license numbers. Also make sure to check their online reviews, reviewing any complaints and compliments about them.

3. Never Pay a Large Deposit

While some can’t be avoided, reputable moving companies will not require a large deposit before moving. The service – at least the majority - should be paid at the end of the move. Otherwise they may disappear with your belongings and you have a lawsuit on your hands. When you do pay, use a credit card to protect against possible fraud.

4. Create an Inventory

When walking through your home, the estimator will take an inventory of all your items and furniture to determine the bulk weight of the home. They should also be thorough and check all storage areas, including drawers, desks, lobbies, bookcases, and filing cabinets.

A significant factor of the moving cost will be the overall weight of your belongings as well as the amount of space it will take up on the truck. When presented with the estimate, look it over carefully and make sure you understand everything on it.

5. Look at Reviews

More and more potential customers are trusting online reviews as if they were recommendations from their friends and family. A reputable moving company will have an overall high rating, provided that they have served their customers well.

When researching these reviews, you will find that few to none will have a perfect score. This is OK. Some customers just can’t be satisfied. But it will be up to you to decide which company to hire based on what others have said.

6. Be Aware of Extra Fees

Keep in mind that many moving companies – even those that are reputable – will add on additional fees for specific cases. Things like going up and down more than one flight of stairs, narrow streets, truck transfers, and moving to or from 2-story homes are all likely to result in additional fees. However, this should be noted in the initial estimate, so you won’t come across any surprises when you get the final bill.

You can also call the company ahead of time if you are unsure of whether or not something will incur an additional fee. Just keep in mind that all movers are different; therefore, while one company may include going up multiple staircases in the service, it may be counted as extra in another.

7. Be Aware of the Packing Process

Keep in mind that if you decide to pack your items yourself, the mover is not responsible for any damage to them. But if the mover does packing and things are broken in the process, they should be covered under the mover’s insurance policy.

Before hiring the company, ask about their packing experience and the materials they use to protect items. This will be helpful to know when they pack up your inventory, machinery, or special equipment.

8. Know Your Moving Contract

While some companies vary, there are generally 3 different kinds of moving contracts:

• Binding Estimate. This includes a guaranteed price for the move that includes all additional fees and requested services. If you want to add on additional services after the contract is made, these fees need to be paid within 30 days after the move.
• Non-Binding to Exceed Estimate. This prevents the company from charging for overages to the original quote they provided. The estimate given is the maximum you will need to pay for the services provided.
• Non-Binding Estimate. This means the mover cannot charge any more than 10% above the original estimate. Just know that the overage must be paid within 30 days of the move.

9. Report Any and All Problems

It’s understandable that not all damage to your items will be noticed right after the move. But you are given 9 months to report any damage or other problem to the moving company, as well as to file an insurance claim. So if you open any box a year later and find something shattered, it’s too late.

On moving day, open as many boxes as you can after they arrived at the new location and be thorough when checking for damage. All problems should be listed in details on the mover’s copy of the final bill, and make sure to check it for any changes before signing it.

After making your claim, the mover has 30 days to acknowledge it and 120 days to deny or accept charges for it.

10. Never Sign a Blank Moving Contract

Rogue moving companies may present you with a blank moving contract before adding services and charges to it. Never sign it. Everything – and absolutely everything – must be listed in detail, including extra fees, pickup, and delivery dates.

Always read your contract carefully, checking that all of your items are listed, before signing. If a computer wasn’t listed on the inventory form before the driver pulls out of your garage or parking lot, you shouldn’t expect it to be in the box. You also won’t be able to file an insurance claim for it because it wasn’t listed on the contract.

11. Choose Insurance and Protection Plan

Reputable moving companies will offer a number of insurance plans you can add on to protect your belongings. This way the moving company will assume liability for the value of your belongings moved. Be sure to take a detailed estimate of the overall value of your items before choosing the insurance coverage.

Choose a Reliable Moving Company

While some moving companies can offer better solutions for customers than others, it’s crucial to find a reputable moving company that keeps your best interests in mind. From start to finish, the service should be professional, friendly, and financially accurate. Remember to always stay on the lookout for red flags such as asking you to sign blank contracts, missing items from the inventory, and “rough” estimates.

Work with Chicago Office Movers

If you live in the Chicago metropolitan area and are looking to move your business, check out our professionals at Chicago Office Movers. Our union movers are dedicated to professionalism while keeping your best interests in mind. We understand that many items and furniture within a business are fragile as well as the information that must be kept confidential. As we conduct hundreds of moves every year, we know the best ways to make the process as smooth as possible.

In addition to our services, each of our movers is background-checked, trained, certified, and experienced to provide you with the peace of mind you need during the transition. Our staff will also be able to handle all aspects of the moving process for you, including move management, packing, furniture assembly, decommissioning, and more.

Our union movers will work with you every step of the way. This includes providing additional information like answers to frequently asked questions, a Commercial Moving Timetable Checklist, what to expect from the process, and more.

Contact Us

For more information regarding our commercial moving services or to schedule a free estimate, give us a call at (312) 244-2246.