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

Written by Kari-Ann on March 11, 2025. Posted in Corporate Relocation, Office Moving, Packing

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.

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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Kari-Ann

Director of Marketing & Development
Office: (847) 621-5176
Cell: (312) 497-3203

At Chicago Office Movers, Kari-Ann is our Director of Marketing & Development. As the master of visibility, she is responsible for all things Branding and Marketing related. Kari-Ann comes to us with experiences in Marketing for a multi-brand and multi-location company, the service industry, non profit marketing event planning and fundraising, and retail management. She is the Chair of the Board for the Schaumburg Business Association 2021 & 2022, a member of the Elk Grove Village Chamber Board of Directors, and past chair and top fundraiser for the Northwest Suburban Walk To End Alzheimer’s.

Kari-Ann received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Western Michigan University. She is Master Certified in Constant Contact Email Marketing and has held numerous social media training classes.

The Complete Guide for Out of State Office Relocation

Written by Kari-Ann on October 18, 2021. Posted in Long Distance, Moving Tips, Office Moving

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

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.

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

A 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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Kari-Ann

Director of Marketing & Development
Office: (847) 621-5176
Cell: (312) 497-3203

At Chicago Office Movers, Kari-Ann is our Director of Marketing & Development. As the master of visibility, she is responsible for all things Branding and Marketing related. Kari-Ann comes to us with experiences in Marketing for a multi-brand and multi-location company, the service industry, non profit marketing event planning and fundraising, and retail management. She is the Chair of the Board for the Schaumburg Business Association 2021 & 2022, a member of the Elk Grove Village Chamber Board of Directors, and past chair and top fundraiser for the Northwest Suburban Walk To End Alzheimer’s.

Kari-Ann received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Western Michigan University. She is Master Certified in Constant Contact Email Marketing and has held numerous social media training classes.

11 Events in Chicago This Summer

Written by Kari-Ann on May 12, 2021. Posted in Community Events

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 Celebrations

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 12^th 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: Timeless

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 Mover

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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Kari-Ann

Director of Marketing & Development
Office: (847) 621-5176
Cell: (312) 497-3203

At Chicago Office Movers, Kari-Ann is our Director of Marketing & Development. As the master of visibility, she is responsible for all things Branding and Marketing related. Kari-Ann comes to us with experiences in Marketing for a multi-brand and multi-location company, the service industry, non profit marketing event planning and fundraising, and retail management. She is the Chair of the Board for the Schaumburg Business Association 2021 & 2022, a member of the Elk Grove Village Chamber Board of Directors, and past chair and top fundraiser for the Northwest Suburban Walk To End Alzheimer’s.

Kari-Ann received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Western Michigan University. She is Master Certified in Constant Contact Email Marketing and has held numerous social media training classes.

Filing Cabinet and Storage Area - Chicago Office Movers

How Long Does it Take to Move an Office?

Written by Kari-Ann on February 10, 2021. 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 Advance

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 Months

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.

Kari-Ann

Director of Marketing & Development
Office: (847) 621-5176
Cell: (312) 497-3203

At Chicago Office Movers, Kari-Ann is our Director of Marketing & Development. As the master of visibility, she is responsible for all things Branding and Marketing related. Kari-Ann comes to us with experiences in Marketing for a multi-brand and multi-location company, the service industry, non profit marketing event planning and fundraising, and retail management. She is the Chair of the Board for the Schaumburg Business Association 2021 & 2022, a member of the Elk Grove Village Chamber Board of Directors, and past chair and top fundraiser for the Northwest Suburban Walk To End Alzheimer’s.

Kari-Ann received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Western Michigan University. She is Master Certified in Constant Contact Email Marketing and has held numerous social media training classes.

4 Places that Accept Used Furniture in Chicago

Written by Kari-Ann on December 21, 2020. Posted in Office Moving

As the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps the nation and leaves offices empty, businesses are restructuring their work from home policies. Some staff may return to work, while others will permanently work from home. What can offices do with idle furniture? Donate used furniture to local organizations.

Company managers may be reassessing their need for office furniture during the coronavirus health crisis. Fewer team members work onsite, making some office goods no longer necessary. Or the staggered shifts will prompt managers to rethink the office floor plans.

What to do with Surplus Furniture

Surplus office furniture may be donated to help non-profits in need. Even large quantities of high-value items may be donated to organizations that sell them and use the profits to offset project costs. Reputable organizations keep used office furniture out of landfills.

Environmental pressures are relieved when office furniture is reused and kept out of landfills. Why throw away office furniture when a small business or family can utilize the goods? Upcycling used office furniture also gives the donation recipients an opportunity to turn them into something new.

Office furniture that is no longer needed as companies restructure their office floor plans in the coronavirus era may be sent to area schools, foundations, charities and social programs. Waste solutions are important to companies that want to demonstrate their corporate social responsibility.

Companies that donate used office furniture may also claim tax deductions when they donate to a qualified charitable organization or non-profit. Donations with a value of over $5000 require the services of an appraiser to provide the proper paperwork needed to claim a tax deduction.

Five steps to complete office furniture donations:

Plan the donation process several weeks ahead of the scheduled pickup date, as agencies are extremely busy.
Look for local charitable organizations, like the ones that follow.
Appraise the furniture.
Schedule the pickup.
Get a receipt.

Many charitable organizations in Chicago offer free pickup services of the used office furniture. These organizations manage the labor and logistics surrounding the donation. Companies that donate their surplus office goods can rest easy knowing their excess furniture will be in good hands.

1. Chicago Furniture Bank

As the office sits nearly vacant amidst the coronavirus crisis, the break room will remain 100 percent unused. Work life may not return to the status quo once the pandemic ends. Now is a good time to donate the kitchen table and chairs from the lunch and break rooms.

Chicago Furniture Bank accepts kitchen furniture, as well as coffee tables, lamps, mirrors, desks, end tables, couches and chairs. The area non-profit donates its collection of used furniture to families in need. In a span of two years, the organization has kept 750 tons of furniture out of local landfills.

2. Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore Chicago

Habitat for Humanity will take a wide range of used office furniture, as well as cabinets, windows, doors, carpeting, knobs and hinges, countertops and functional appliances. The proceeds from the sales of donated goods go back into the non-profit to help Chicagoans find affordable housing.

All furniture donated to Habitat for Humanity must be in excellent condition. Upholstered furniture should not be ripped, stained or otherwise damaged. In order to schedule a pickup, donating companies are required to submit a photo of the office furniture.

Habitat for Humanity has the right to refuse any donation. The non-profit will not accept donations of furniture items that are known to have a low turnover rate. The organization will also not take donations of goods that are in need of repair.

3. Salvation Army

The Salvation Army, a well-known local charity, will take any type of used office furniture, even the television in the office breakroom. Chicagoans in need benefit from the Salvation Army’s charitable services. Donated items also help fund the Salvation Army’s rehabilitation programs.

The Salvation Army does not provide a valuation of donated items. Companies that donate are responsible for determining the approximate value of tax-deductible donations. The non-profit offers a Donation Value Guide to help companies determine the estimated value of some items.

For valuation purposes, for instance, the office desk and upholstered chair have a low value of $26 and a high value of between $104 and $145 each. The office waiting room sofa may be donated and carries a low value of $36 and a high value of $207.

4. Cancer Federation Chicago

The Cancer Federation Chicago accepts furniture of all types. Similar to Habitat for Humanity, the Cancer Federation Chicago will not accept furniture that is in need of repair. The non-profit will also not accept metal desks and used furniture made of particle board or pressed wood.

Private companies and stores benefit from the sale of items by the Federation. The funds from the sales support cancer research as well as education programs for cancer patients and their families. Pickups of donatable furniture may be conveniently scheduled on the organization’s website.

Get Help from a Commercial Mover

While local charitable organizations will pick up used office furniture, company managers may need professional help when they have to move office goods in preparation for a renovation. Chicago Office Movers is available to help you move furniture when you have a planned remodeling project.

Chicago Office Movers’ teams of experienced office movers will remove and install furniture, fixtures and large equipment. When you need to move items into storage, our skilled professionals will safely relocate the goods. We also provide a detailed inventory list of items relocated to our secure storage facilities.

Diverse local businesses utilize the invaluable moving services provided by Chicago Office Movers. Our satisfied customers include area businesses in the hospitality industry, government agencies, educational institutions and commercial businesses, among many others. We work with you to understand your business’ unique needs.

Consult Chicago Office Movers when you are planning a relocation within the Windy City, when you have goods to be moved into storage or when a renovation is on the horizon. As a reputable commercial mover, we proudly serve businesses in Chicago, Illinois.

Get a Free Estimate

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.

Kari-Ann

Director of Marketing & Development
Office: (847) 621-5176
Cell: (312) 497-3203

At Chicago Office Movers, Kari-Ann is our Director of Marketing & Development. As the master of visibility, she is responsible for all things Branding and Marketing related. Kari-Ann comes to us with experiences in Marketing for a multi-brand and multi-location company, the service industry, non profit marketing event planning and fundraising, and retail management. She is the Chair of the Board for the Schaumburg Business Association 2021 & 2022, a member of the Elk Grove Village Chamber Board of Directors, and past chair and top fundraiser for the Northwest Suburban Walk To End Alzheimer’s.

Kari-Ann received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Western Michigan University. She is Master Certified in Constant Contact Email Marketing and has held numerous social media training classes.

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Kari-Ann

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