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How to Safely Pack Fragile Office Items for a Move

How to Safely Pack Fragile Office Items for a Move

How to Safely Pack Fragile Office Items for a Move

Written by Kari-Ann on . Posted in Corporate Relocation, Office Moving, Packing

How to Safely Pack Fragile Office Items for a Move

Office relocations require careful planning, especially when moving fragile office items. Whether you’re relocating glass-topped tables, sensitive electronics, or valuable artwork, proper packing is essential for minimizing the risk of damage during the move. Here’s a guide on how to pack delicate office equipment and furniture for a safe and efficient office relocation.

What are Fragile Office Items?

Anything described as fragile can be easily broken or damaged. Offices contain an abundance of fragile goods and equipment. The conference room may contain glass-topped tables, and the management offices may be furnished with glass-topped desks—all of which are extremely fragile.

Today’s offices operate on complex electronic systems. When relocating, it’s necessary to pack up sensitive tech equipment, such as computers, monitors, and printers. Fragile items like these can be damaged by the impact if dropped during the moving process.

Offices with sophisticated designs may need to move marble or stone worktops. These fragile goods should be handled with special care to prevent damage. Similarly, framed artwork and antiques that decorate offices require careful packing to remain in pristine condition.

Packing Fragile Office Items: Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing for a relocation means it’s necessary to pack up the whole office. While employees can pack their own belongings and contribute to packing the rest of the office, it requires time during working hours. Conversely, let professional movers handle the packing to save time.

1. Packing Glass Tables

When opting for DIY packing, disassemble glass tabletops. Remove the legs and dismantle the fragile glass frames. Pack these components separately. When unscrewing the table legs, drop the screws into a sealable plastic bag and tape it to the table so it does not become lost during the move.

Wrap the glass top with packing paper. Secure the paper with tape but be sure to prevent the adhesive from coming into contact with the glass. Next, cover the tabletop with bubble wrap, with the bubbles facing inward. Place the wrapped glass into a specialty telescopic box for maximum protection.

2. Packing Tech Equipment

Sensitive electronics should be packed with care to streamline the reinstallation process at the new office. Before packing, back up all important files to an external hard drive or cloud-based storage to prevent data loss. Also take photos of the setup, which can be invaluable during reassembly.

Disassemble and label cables and cords. Box the devices in the original packaging, when possible, which is designed to provide optimal protection. Wrap the tech in bubble wrap and place them in boxes with cushioning. Pack keyboards and mice in smaller boxes or bags to maintain organization.

Utilize anti-static bubble wrap for packing the electronics. If the original boxes are unavailable, select sturdy, corrugated boxes to pack the equipment. Choose boxes that are slightly larger than the devices to allow room for protective padding, such as packing peanuts.

3. Packing Office Artwork and Antiques

Office artwork and antiques are vulnerable to the bumps and jostles of the moving process. Appraise the valuables prior to packing them, in case they are damaged during the relocation. Avoid wrapping wooden antiques in bubble wrap, since multiple layers can damage the porous wood surface.

Secure fragile parts, such as drawers or doors, but avoid using tape to do so. Cover the antiques with moving blankets, which can keep these parts securely closed. Next, add padding to the outside of the moving blankets. Remove any small pieces and store them carefully.

4.Marble-top Tables

Marble is a heavy material but can be easily damaged during a move. Protect these fragile goods by wrapping them in moving blankets. Ensure the blankets cover the pieces from the top and wrap around the bottom. A wardrobe box can be effectively used to further protect the marble.

Upon purchasing a special carton or crate to house the marble components during the relocation, pack no more than one marble piece inside. Keep the carton or crate upright and never lay it flat while storing or moving it. Clearly mark the carton as fragile.

Tips for Packing Fragile Office Items

When packing fragile office items, bear in mind a few general strategies:

  • Use Strong, New Boxes: Always choose new, sturdy boxes designed for office moves. Avoid old, flimsy boxes that can collapse under pressure.
  • Separate Items: Avoid packing fragile items together to reduce the risk of breakage. Use bubble wrap and packing paper to cushion each item.
  • Label Boxes: Clearly mark all boxes containing fragile items to alert movers. You can also color code the boxes for a better organization.

3 Materials You Can Use To Keep The Office Fragile Items Safe

When preparing for an office relocation, using the right packing materials can make all the difference in keeping your fragile items intact. Whether you're moving high-end tech, delicate décor, or glass furnishings, these three materials are the go-to choices for protecting your office essentials during transport.

Top 3 Packing Materials to Protect Fragile Office Items

Bubble Wrap:

Bubble wrap is a must-have when it comes to safeguarding breakable office items. Its air-filled pockets provide a cushioned barrier that helps absorb shocks and vibrations during loading, transport, and unloading. This makes it especially effective for wrapping fragile objects like monitors, computer towers, glass table tops, and framed artwork.

How to Use It:

  • For best results, wrap the item completely with the bubble wrap, ensuring the bubbles face inward to protect the surface.
  • Secure the wrap with tape, but avoid taping directly onto the item itself.
  • When packing multiple items, stack them carefully and add extra layers of bubble wrap between each item to prevent shifting during the move.

Packing Paper:

Unlike newspaper, which can leave ink stains, packing paper is clean, pliable, and safe for delicate surfaces. It’s ideal for wrapping smaller items, filling in gaps inside boxes, or layering between stacked pieces to prevent scratches. Glassware, ceramics, and decorative office pieces benefit from being individually wrapped in packing paper to avoid direct contact with other items.

How to Use It:

  • Roll individual items, such as glassware and small office décor, in several layers of packing paper to ensure they are fully cushioned.
  • Use packing paper to fill any empty spaces in boxes, ensuring items don't shift during transport.
  • For larger, more fragile items, use the paper as a cushion around the item and layer it with bubble wrap for added protection.

Sturdy Corrugated Boxes:

Using high-quality, corrugated cardboard boxes is essential when transporting fragile office goods. These boxes provide structural strength and help distribute weight evenly, reducing the risk of contents being crushed. Double-walled boxes offer even greater protection for heavier or more delicate items.

How to Use It:

  • Choose boxes that are slightly larger than the items you're packing to allow for protective padding, such as bubble wrap or packing paper, around the contents.
  • For heavier items, like monitors or printers, use double-walled boxes for extra strength. For fragile items like glass or ceramics, use specialized boxes designed for these goods.
  • Label the boxes clearly as "Fragile" to ensure they are handled with care during the move.
  • To prevent crushing, pack the heaviest items at the bottom of the box and lighter, more fragile items on top.

Professional Office Movers that can Safely Handle Fragile Items

Safely packing fragile office goods for a move can be accomplished with the right skills and packing supplies. When your team is busy preparing for the relocation, save valuable time by delegating the packing and unpacking to the experienced commercial movers at Chicago Office Movers.

Our moving crews are equipped with sturdy boxes and packing supplies as well as expertise to safely pack your entire office. Whether you are moving precious antiques, sensitive IT servers, or other specialty items, we pack your possessions carefully to prevent the risk of damage during the corporate relocation.

As a part of our expert packing services, we label boxes to ensure proper placement at the new office. You receive a full inventory of all goods packed. The items are packed in boxes and crates guaranteed to protect the contents. Plus, our crews unpack your items at the destination.

Our corporate moving services include additional conveniences, such as short- and long-term storage in our secure facilities. We offer insurance and service contracts. Moving crews are licensed, trained, and background-checked to give customers maximum confidence that their goods are in secure hands.

Whether you plan to move your company locally, long-distance or internationally, choose Chicago Office Movers for safe packing and seamless relocation. Call our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, office today for a free estimate and assign your corporate relocation to Chicagoland’s most trusted office mover.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

When packing delicate office lighting fixtures, first remove any bulbs and secure them separately. Wrap the light fixtures in bubble wrap or moving blankets, making sure to cushion the bulbs and other fragile parts. Place the wrapped lighting in a box that’s slightly larger than the item to allow room for protective padding. Label the box as fragile.

While it’s tempting to reuse old boxes, it’s better to use new, sturdy boxes for fragile items. Old boxes may have weakened over time and could fail to protect delicate items. If you must reuse boxes, make sure they are still in good condition with no tears, dents, or weak spots.

When packing office shelving units or bookshelves, remove all items from the shelves and disassemble any removable parts. Wrap individual shelves in bubble wrap or moving blankets and pack them separately. If the shelving unit is too large, protect it with moving blankets and ensure it is secured upright during the move.

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how to unpack after moving to your new office

How to Unpack After Moving to Your New Office: A Step-by-Step Guide

Written by Kari-Ann on . Posted in Corporate Relocation, Office Moving, Packing

 

how to unpack after moving to your new office

The new office is impressive and the staff are excited to begin work. Everything is proceeding well—except the mountainous boxes piled up in nearly every square inch of space are intimidating. Rather than be overwhelmed, use these tips to unpack with ease after a relocation.

Jumpstarting on work projects in the new location is impossible without unpacking the essentials, from technology that streamlines tasks to important paperwork. The work mounts and the employees grow increasingly frustrated without knowing where to start with the unpacking process.

Fortunately, unpacking after moving to a new office can be accomplished with minimal stress. Organization is key during the unpacking efforts, as it allows for a more organized workflow once complete. Breaking up the unpacking into smaller chunks also makes the process manageable.

1. Take Inventory

Accounting for all the office possessions is the first step in the unpacking process. Check the inventory list the moving company provides to ensure all the items are delivered. This should be done as soon as possible after arriving so that corrections can be made and mistakes fixed.

Do a headcount of all major office goods, such as desks, chairs, equipment, and filing cabinets. Communicate with office personnel to confirm they have received the boxes necessary to perform work tasks. If necessary, open the boxes to verify the contents.

2. Arrange Furniture

Ideally, the layout in the new office will be established prior to relocating. If not, scope out the new space, which will have different configurations than the old one. Arrange the desks and chairs to create a growth-oriented, dynamic office environment the staff will appreciate.

Factor in work zones, such as specific areas for collaborations and others for individual workstations. Balance personal and collaborative workspaces for a more productive work environment. Maintain an open flow through the office and maximize natural lighting when arranging desks and cubicles.

3. Set up Technology

Setting up the technology is also preferably done prior to arriving at the new office. IT staff should have access to the building to set up servers and wireless networks. Once the desks and monitors arrive, IT personnel run the cables, implement security measures and validate the IT systems.

The office’s IT teams should manage the computer cables to reduce tripping hazards and maintain the visual aesthetics at individual workstations. Effective cable management, though a mundane task, optimizes the functionality of the network infrastructure and promotes smooth network operations.

4. Unpack the Essentials First

Once the critical technology (monitors, mice, and keyboards) is unpacked, the less-important files and office supplies should be removed from their boxes. Rarely used office goods, such as reference books, can be left in their respective boxes and unpacked leisurely.

Advise each employee to unpack their boxes and containers at their workstations rather than delegate the unpacking to other staff. Office workers best understand how they’d like to utilize their given space. The responsibility of general unpacking, however, can be shared amongst employees.

5. Unpack Right Away

The longer the boxes sit in the new office location, the longer the company downtime will be. Unpack as soon as possible after relocating to minimize downtime. If unpacking requires a bigger investment in time than is practical, unpack a few boxes each day until the task is done.

A time-saving convenience many offices take advantage of is the unpacking services corporate movers provide. Once at the destination, the moving crews unpack boxes, install equipment, and reassemble furniture, such as large conference desks. They also provide initial packing services for added ease.

6. Encourage Staff Input

Once the office is unpacked, ask the employees for their input. Any suggestions they make to their individual workstation setups or the office in general can increase productivity, promote comfort, and create an efficient work environment. Staff also feel valued and part of the change.

Remember that once equipment is in place and the supplies are in their containers, the office setup can be modified as work needs change. Employees may find a different workstation configuration better suits their needs. Or an office bookshelf may be more suitable elsewhere.

7. Take Time to Adjust

It may take a few weeks for the team to adjust to the new location once unpacked. Allow ample time for employees to settle in and give them opportunities to make tweaks as they see fit. Remember that the new office layout should evolve with the company as needs change.

Teams may expand over time as the company grows. Furniture may need to be rearranged or equipment upgraded as priorities shift. In general, however, it’s important that the workspace remains functional as soon as the office goods are unpacked as well as anytime needs change.

To make your office move even smoother, check out [What to Pack First During an Office Move] for helpful tips on tackling the initial packing phase efficiently.

Top Commercial Movers in Chicago and the Suburbs for a Smooth Office Relocation

While relocating to a new office is an exciting event, the packing process is often stressful. Chicago Office Movers takes the stress out of your move with a comprehensive range of services designed to streamline your corporate relocation and prevent unnecessary angst.

commercial movers helping with the corporate relocation process and set up

Our licensed and insured commercial movers are experts at packing offices of any size. We successfully pack a range of items, from fragile artwork to bulky machinery. Plus, our crews are background-checked to assure our valued customers that their goods are in secure hands throughout their corporate move.

We are also available to unpack your office goods at the new location. Our packing services minimize overall moving time as well as corporate downtime. You receive a full inventory of all items packed so you can quickly account for all your belongings.

Additional conveniences offered include short- and long-term storage options, insurance and service contracts and professional assistance with planning the relocation. Since we specialize in commercial moves, our specialists can provide you with expert tips to ensure a seamless office relocation.

Whether you intend to move IT systems, science labs, or cubicles, Chicago Office Movers is prepared to help you pack and relocate with ease. We are available to relocate your company locally, long-distance or internationally. Call our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, office for a free estimate today at 312-244-2246 !

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The Complete Guide for Out of State Office Relocation

Written by Kari-Ann on . Posted in Long Distance, Moving Tips, Office Moving

Business people planning on a move

Thriving businesses will have a need to upgrade facilities or relocate to a bustling hub in order to keep up with explosive growth. An office relocation is an exciting event. But insufficient planning can produce unnecessary stress. Follow this guide for out-of-state moves and relocate with ease.

An efficient and quick relocation is key to minimizing downtime and maintaining customer and employee satisfaction. Crossing state lines with a business in tow, however, is a daunting task. Coordinate logistics well in advance in order to return full speed to business operations.

1. Review the Current Lease

Six months prior to the office relocation, examine the current commercial property lease. Exiting the building sooner may result in losing the deposit. Be aware of any responsibility for costs associated with property damages (i.e., broken light fixtures or chipped paint) sustained during the move.

2. Look for Commercial Movers

Obtain quotes from at least three professional, full-service office movers. Experienced commercial movers improve the likelihood of an efficient and successful relocation across state lines. Opting for a low-cost mover with less handling experience could cost the business significantly more in the long run.

3. Create a Relocation Budget

Develop a relocation budget to deter overspending. Scale back on expenses (i.e., employees pack items, rather than movers). Consider moving coverage, especially if the business heavily relies on important machinery or equipment. Machinery that breaks during the relocation could halt business operations.

4. Designate a Moving Committee

Two people planning for office relocation

Assemble a team of employees to execute the relocation. A moving committee made up of volunteers may be responsible for planning, packing, unpacking, and organizing. Appoint a move coordinator to ensure that employees have a point of contact for questions and concerns.

5. Notify Important Contacts

With the logistics in place, the moving committee should announce the upcoming relocation. Notify employees, partners, vendors, and customers about the move date. Provide the new office address and contact information to everyone who will be affected by a change in the business location.

For example, send the new business address to banks and financial institutions, phone company, insurance company, internet service provider, and printer service company. Also keep any professional organizations in the loop about when the new business address will go into effect.

6. Offer Relocation Program

Prepare employees in advance by arranging relocation bonuses and pay adjustments. Include site visits so that staff have the opportunity to scout schools and tour the new community. Offer reimbursements for moving expenses, like home buying, transportation, or temporary living.

7. Obtain the New Floorplan

In preparation for moving all equipment and furniture, obtain a detailed floorplan of the new office space. Plan the layout for existing furniture that will be transported to the new location. If necessary, consult a furniture company to purchase new office furniture.

8. Work with IT

Work with the IT personnel to devise a plan to set up computers and technology in the new space. If the IT team is unable to tackle the task, consult outside professionals. IT personnel should also be assigned to pack up company-provided employee laptops, monitors and other IT equipment.

Seek professional help for office equipment that requires special handling, such as complex machinery that must be disassembled or potentially hazardous materials. Moving companies will not transport flammable goods, like propane tanks, aerosols, or acids, so dispose of them prior to the relocation.

cardboard box with folders and office supplies in floor during relocation

9. Pack Office Goods

Rather than utilize professional packing services, budget-conscious companies may elect to save on moving costs by instructing employees to pack their office goods. When pursuing a DIY route, provide employees with an ample supply of sturdy cardboard boxes, packing tape, and labels.

Important documents can get lost during the shuffle of a major office relocation. Or, unanticipated obstacles at the new office can delay booting up right away. Prevent the loss or damage of correspondence and paperwork by creating electronics backups prior to the move.

10. Confirm Utilities Work

On moving day, the professional movers will load the office goods onto their trucks. Before the last pieces of office equipment are loaded, confirm with the utility company that all power, internet and water are working at the out-of-state office location.

11. Install Equipment

Once the moving truck arrives at the new office, refer to the floorplan devised earlier to lay out the furniture and equipment. Work with the commercial movers to install the office equipment. Test that the technology, such as Wi-Fi, cable, phones, and computers, are functional.

12. Settle In

Unless the commercial movers handle the unpacking of office goods, designate employees to handle the task. Restock supply cabinets with items needed immediately. The more individuals involved in setting up an operative workspace, the faster the business can resume operations in the brand-new location.

Settle into the new space by welcoming employees with an office warming party. Consider leaving a welcome gift on each staff member’s desk. A welcome pack may consist of brochures about restaurants in the new state, treats to further energize employees, or a coffee mug.

Don’t forget, after you have moved to a new office, there are more to do besides decorating and organizing the new office! Read this blog to find out what you need to update when you relocate to a new office.

Full-Service Commercial Mover

Commercial Packing Services in Naperville, ILA successful office relocation across state lines requires more than detailed preparation and organization. You need an experienced team of movers behind you. Companies on the move will find top-notch moving services from the commercial, long-distance movers at Chicago Office Movers.

As a highly rated commercial mover, Chicago Office Movers provides comprehensive relocation services for businesses of all sizes. We understand that an efficient move is critical to minimizing downtime. Businesses receive help with all facets of moving, from packing to move management and unpacking.

Companies with fragile equipment are also in good hands when they work with Chicago Office Movers. Our office relocation crews are experienced in machinery moving. We’ve moved office goods of all types, from appliances and server rooms to office furniture. We also assemble and install furniture.

Expect an efficient out-of-state relocation when you work with the experienced crews at Chicago Office Movers. We have earned a reputation for excellence with the Chicagoland businesses we serve. When you are planning an interstate office move, contact us for a free estimate.

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Navy Pier

11 Events in Chicago This Summer

Written by Kari-Ann on . Posted in Community Events

Woman-Looking-at-Food-at-Festival

Chicago events are scheduled to return this summer after over a year of the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the city, nation and world. Residents of the city and neighboring areas can expect a summer filled with outdoor festivals, sporting events, art fairs and street fairs.

The gradual reopening of Chicago is made possible by city residents who follow the public health guidelines and help keep COVID-19 infection rates low enough to resume activities. Community, art and business leaders also contribute to the launch of summer events.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that the Fourth of July holiday is the target date to fully reopen the city. Vaccination and public health department efforts help the city move closer toward this goal. Events are expected to follow state guidelines and will have limited capacity.

Chicagoans have plenty to look forward to this summer. The city will reawaken with the reopening of music clubs, theaters and festivals. The historic Maxwell Street Market is scheduled to return, as are the Grant Park Music Festival and a modified version of the summertime favorite Taste of Chicago.

May 2021 Events

1. Navy Pier CelebrationsJuly 4th Celebration

Celebrations of the Navy Pier reopening will include 10 minutes of fireworks every Saturday night in May at 9 PM. Visitors may view the lakefront attraction’s celebratory sparks from its various public places, nearby beaches or while sauntering down the Lakefront Trail.

2. Immersive Van Gogh

Admirers of Vincent Van Gogh have a chance to appreciate the artist’s work in a new way. In the Germania Club Building in Old Town, animated versions of the famed painter’s work cover 35-foot walls and are accompanied by a delicate blend of electronic and classical music compositions.

3. Chicago Symphony Orchestra

The return of live concerts is heralded by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra this month. Head to the Symphony Center to listen to glorious works by composers, like Aaron Copeland and Samuel Barber, which are performed by musicians from the CSO’s percussion and brass sections.

4. Art: Lust, Love, and Loss in Renaissance Europe

This Memorial Day weekend, spend time at the art exhibit at the University of Chicago’s Smart Museum of Art. Absorb the moving artistry of Renaissance painters. The Lust, Love, and Loss in Renaissance Europe exhibit features 40 paintings, sculptures, prints and luxury wares.

June 2021 Events

5. Architecture River Tour

Water and architecture lovers will enjoy sightseeing with Shoreline’s Architecture River Tours. The award-winning, guided tour takes attendees on a 75-minute jaunt to see more than 40 of the city’s world-famous landmarks. Face masks are required on the vessel and in boarding areas.

6. Andersonville Farmers Market

Returning for its 12th season, the Andersonville Farmers Market will be open on Wednesdays from 3pm to 7pm during the months of May to October. Shoppers can browse the colorful offerings of this hybrid market in-person or order in advance via their app or website for pick up.

7. Maxwell Street Market

Shoppers are surrounded by vibrant colors, scintillating aromas, and an overall satisfying cultural experience as immigrant communities sell food, clothing, and crafts. Visitors have flocked to the Maxwell Street Market since the late nineteenth century, when it was a vast Sunday morning flea market.

July 2021 Events

8. Frida Kahlo: TimelessFrida Kahlo Paints

The Frida Kahlo: Timeless art exhibition will give museum-goers the chance to learn and understand Kahlo’s work and life. A 26-piece collection will be on exhibit as well as over 100 photos from the artist’s life. A Frida Kahlo-inspired garden offers visitors unique insights into this artist’s work.

9. Navy Pier Concerts and Movies

Navy Pier’s film screenings, concerts and festivals begin in July. Families may enjoy movies, like The Lion King and Frozen 2. Jazz enthusiasts can take in the sounds of The Water Color jazz series, which includes a tribute to The Blues Brothers, performed by the Chicago Jazz Orchestra.

August 2021 Events

10. Navy Pier Cultural Events

Navy Pier continues its musical concerts through the month of August. Local musicians perform in Live on the Lake! Free weekly, family friendly movie screenings may be enjoyed at the Polk Brothers Park. The children’s music series Wiggleworms will run every Friday morning from 10am to 11am.

11. Taste of Chicago To-Go

The annual Taste of Chicago will be modified this year due to the pandemic. This summer, the food festival will be known as Taste of Chicago To-Go. Pop-up cooking demonstrations and a series of special events will take place through the months of July, August and September.

Chicago promises a flurry of exciting events this summer, especially as COVID-19 restrictions ease. The aforementioned events are in the planning stage; details may change, depending on the success of reducing coronavirus metrics. Check schedules before heading out to the events.

Work with a Commercial MoverUnwrapping Furniture - Chicago Office Movers

Companies planning to relocate to Chicago this summer can be assured that their employees will have plenty of recreational opportunities in the city. While these summer events will keep staff entertained, count on Chicago Office Movers to handle your corporate relocation with ease and safety.

Chicago Office Movers is an experienced commercial mover. We handle all aspects of your move, from start to finish. Our crews safely and securely pack office goods, obtain street permits for unloading, and coordinate shipping for both long-distance and international moves.

Businesses that need storage services can count on Chicago Office Movers’ secure storage facilities. Your goods will be unpacked carefully at the destination to prevent damage. Our union movers disassemble furniture and equipment and provide dependable reassembly at the final destination.

Our numerous satisfied customers attest to our expert relocation services and competitive pricing. In fact, the relocation specialists at Chicago Office Movers will ensure your move stays within budget. By working with a reputable office mover, like us, you can expect a seamless relocation.

Get a Free Estimate

Chicago Office Movers is available to handle every detail of your move into or out of the city, state or country. We also skillfully handle international relocations. When you anticipate an office or corporate relocation, choose Chicago Office Movers.

Call us today at 312-244-2246 for a free estimate.

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Filing Cabinet and Storage Area - Chicago Office Movers

How Long Does it Take to Move an Office?

Written by Kari-Ann on . Posted in Corporate Relocation, Office Moving

Filing Cabinet and Storage Area - Chicago Office Movers

Relocating a business involves risk, and, therefore, several months of planning, negotiating with landlords and ensuring the transition causes the least disruption to operations. While small businesses can relocate sooner, large and average-sized offices can expect the following moving timetable.

An average office move can take up to 12 months, however, most office moves handled by Chicago Office Movers usually take between 5 and 9 months

1. Look for a New Space 12 Months in Advance

Business owners who anticipate relocating should begin planning at least 12 months in advance. Plans for moving start with looking for a new office space. Finding the right office can take a substantial amount of time, especially when multiple decision-makers are involved in the process.

The current office may no longer suit the needs of the business. Rapidly growing businesses require a larger office space. Downsizing also prompts business owners to search for a new, smaller space. A visit to the prospective location is important to get a sense of what the space affords.

Certain cities will require a larger or smaller budget, which can potentially exclude some locations from the search. Consider location, such as urban or suburban, and public transportation options for employees. Nearby neighborhood amenities also contribute to the quality of employee work life.

When on the hunt for a new office, factor in the lease terms. Short-term leases are attractive for small businesses, especially those that are likely to outgrow an existing space within a short span of time. It is also helpful to explore the community of tenants to determine affability.

2. Seal the Deal with a Landlord 3 to 6 Months in Advance

Once a desirable office space is found, negotiate the lease terms with the landlord. Commercial leases are flexible and typically average three years. Work with a tenant rep broker or a lawyer who can win favorable deals and help a business owner understand complex clauses.

Counteroffer asked base rent, initially offering 10 to 15 percent less than what the landlord asks. Try to negotiate on more than one location at a time, which allows business owners to walk away from at least one negotiation. Be aware that a longer lease term results in a better base rent.

3. Announce the Relocation 2 to 6 Months in AdvanceMan-Woman-Office-in-Elk-Grove-Village-IL

Office staff should be informed of the upcoming move well in advance. Hold a staff meeting and provide each member of the office team with a detailed plan of the move. Ask for input from employees that would help make the relocation smoother and less disruptive to business operations.

If possible, allow a virtual tour of the new office space. Once team members see where they will be working, they will know what to expect and can continue performing without the tension often associated with being unprepared for the future.

Delegate tasks to each employee in preparation for the relocation. Check to see if any office employees require new equipment. An option to retain good employees is to offer a relocation package, which may include transportation expenses, temporary housing and finding a home.

4. Hire a Commercial Mover 4 to 8 Weeks in Advance

A commercial moving company experienced in corporate relocations will be a company’s biggest asset when it comes to facilitating a smooth office move. Research a handful of potential commercial movers, paying careful attention to customer reviews and ratings, affordability, and availability.

Spring and summer are the peak moving seasons, and moving companies are tightly booked. Relocating during the off-peak seasons of autumn and winter is cost effective and gives business owners increased flexibility and scheduling options. Plus, fall and winter’s less congested highways speed up the move.

5. Pack IT Equipment 1 to 3 Weeks in Advance

Once the relocation date is set, hire information technology (IT) professionals to back up all important business data. Experts are necessary to prevent risks, such as the loss of information. Technology can be replaced, but the sensitive business data cannot.

The process for packing and relocating IT equipment, including disconnecting services and shutting down systems, is lengthy and complex. Hire IT technicians if experienced employees are unavailable to disconnect all cables safely and correctly. Photograph wire connections so that reassembly is easier at the new destination.

6. Prepare the New Office Within 1 to 4 MonthsBusiness-Woman-Packing-Office

Once the commercial mover arrives at the new office destination, it is time to unpack and prepare the new workspace. Depending on the size of the office and the number of personnel, this process can range from one to four months.

All office furniture and equipment will need to be unpacked and reassembled. Professionally set up the IT systems and equipment. Establish all utilities and internet connections. In the event any equipment is damaged during transport, be prepared to start immediate repairs or replace the units.

Work with a Commercial Mover

A corporate relocation is a stressful event but partnering with a commercial mover with experience shifting large and small companies to new destinations eliminates the tension. Chicago Office Movers is a highly rated commercial mover with services that will meet all your business relocation needs.

Crews at Chicago Office Movers are licensed, trained and background-checked to ensure your business goods are handled safely and securely. We have successfully moved fragile IT systems, delicate electronics, antiques, science lab equipment, artwork, heavy office furniture and cubicles.Office-Movers-Evanston-IL

Chicago Office Movers’ trucks are climate-controlled and feature air-ride suspensions, so that your technology remains protected during transport. With full access to our tracking equipment, business owners have the ability to track the movement of goods during the relocation process.

Follow in the footsteps of prestigious companies, like Alcatel Lucent and Northwestern University, that have utilized our commercial moving services with great satisfaction. Our multiple five-star ratings are a testimony to our commitment to excellence and dedication to serving area businesses.

Get a Free Estimate

Choose Chicago Office Movers for reliable and comprehensive corporate relocation services. We provide budget-friendly moving services, from long- and short-term storage to packing and unpacking.

Whether you plan to move locally, long distance or internationally, contact us for a free estimate at 312-244-2246 or by filling out a contact form.

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1717 Tonne Road
Elk Grove Village, Illinois 60007

Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 5 PM
Sat: 8 AM – Noon

US DOT 2889377
IL C.C. MC 216511



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Call us (312) 244-2246