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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Top Amenities Employees Want in the Office

Written by Chicago Office Movers on February 18, 2025. Posted in Corporate Relocation, Office Moving

Enhancing morale and improving productivity are two important reasons to add desirable amenities to the workplace. But it’s crucial to find amenities that truly promote wellness rather than distract employees. Here are the top amenities staff want in the office.

Most offices are equipped with standard desks and chairs. These basics allow employees to perform their tasks. While standard equipment is necessary, offices that go above and beyond with extras, like snacks, a gym, pet-friendly areas, or optimum lighting, improve their staff’s overall work experience.

The best amenities not only improve employees’ physical comfort but create an enjoyable workspace. The management shows they genuinely care about the well-being of their team. As a result, employees are happier, more productive and motivated to carry out the company’s vision.

What are the top amenities office employees want?

1. Physical Amenities

Desirable amenities focus on improving certain aspects of employees’ work life. Amenities that promote physical well-being include ergonomic chairs and desks or an onsite gym where staff can exercise to stay fit. Amenities like these are designed to keep staff physically healthy.

In addition to ergonomic furniture that prevents issues from sitting for prolong periods, physical comfort amenities include healthy snacks in the break room or cafeteria. Personal lockers are also included in this category, as they help keep employees’ valuables safe and organized.

Onsite health services are another top amenity employees seek in an office. Easy access to screenings and wellness programs helps staff detect health issues early on. By contributing to their physical wellness, onsite health programs prevent workers from getting sick and taking time off.

2. Emotional Amenities

Natural lighting is known for its mood-enhancing effects. Employees desire natural lighting for its numerous health benefits, such as reduced eye strain, fewer headaches, and less drowsiness. Staff make less mistakes, too, when they work in spaces with ample natural lighting.

Wellness rooms are likewise highly coveted. When ridden with stress or anxiety, staff have the opportunity to escape from the office chaos and into a wellness room for much-needed relaxation. The wellness room provides a calm, quiet environment and a break from the hustle and bustle.

3. Convenient Amenities

Working parents especially value office amenities that deliver convenience. With onsite childcare, staff are free to invest in work projects, knowing their children are nearby, safe, and cared for. Employees who take advantage of this amenity show increased productivity and less stress.

A shuttle or transportation service to and from a public rail or bus station makes a major difference in the satisfaction of employees who utilize public transportation. Not only does a shuttle service improve punctuality, but it adds a cost-savings measure for parking-related expenses.

Furthermore, a company that offers a shuttle service showcases their commitment to environmental sustainability, a major attraction for highly skilled talent. By reducing the number of cars on the road with a reliable transportation service, the company lowers their carbon footprint.

A furry friend is an instant mood-booster, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Employees who are allowed to bring their pets to the workplace continue experiencing their uplifted mood while engaged in projects. Pet-friendly zones at work are appreciated by pet owners.

4. Social Amenities

Connecting with colleagues is equally important for employee satisfaction at work. Opportunities for connection happen when companies designate spaces that encourage teamwork and collaboration. Collaborative workspaces and areas where employees can gather are two examples of highly sought-after social amenities.

By providing a place for colleagues to unwind or take breaks, companies foster a positive workplace environment where increased teamwork and engagement are the norm. Collaborative areas also allow for better problem-solving, information sharing, and trust-building. A sense of belonging develops among the team.

5. Technology Amenities

Today’s fast-paced companies rely heavily on technology. It’s no surprise employees value it, too. The latest technology empowers team members and allows them to communicate and collaborate no matter where they are located, whether onsite or working remotely. Improved data security is an additional benefit.

Work processes are streamlined with advanced technology. Automation tools, for instance, prevent staff from engaging in repetitive tasks while also reducing human error, saving the company time and money. Streamlined workflow processes provide greater flexibility and improve the staff’s quality of work.

Favored amenities increase employee satisfaction and retention. Companies that provide desirable amenities show that they are committed to promoting the well-being of their office staff. Plus, by adding top amenities, companies enhance their corporate reputation and attract highly talented workforces.

Drawing prospective talent and ensuring the satisfaction of existing ones are key reasons companies are urged to include the most desirable amenities in their office. Companies that experience space limitations, such as when adding a gym, might consider relocating to a larger office.

Professional Commercial Movers

When your company is looking to move to greener pastures, you’ll need a reliable commercial mover on your side. Chicago Office Movers is equipped with the dedicated moving crews, equipment, and experience to ensure your corporate relocation is as seamless as possible.

Our move counselors are available to help you plan your office relocation from start to finish. Moving crews can pack and unpack your office goods. Our movers are background-checked, licensed, and trained—so you can be assured that your valuables are in secure hands.

We offer several conveniences to add ease to your move. Short- and long-term storage options are available in our secure facilities. Movers are experienced in safely relocating a wide range of office goods, such as bulky furniture, sensitive IT systems, fragile electronics, and cubicles.

Your goods are loaded into our climate-controlled moving trucks featuring lift gates and air-ride suspensions to add a further layer of protection to your office items. Our corporate customers receive up-to-date tracking information, whether their goods are in our storage facility or trucks.

Give your employees the amenities they deserve. Relocate locally, long-distance, or internationally with the help of Chicago Office Movers. We’re among the most trusted office moving companies in Chicagoland. Call our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, office today to receive a free estimate.

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Transforming Spaces for Schaumburg’s Premier Culinary Event: Chicago Office Movers’ Role in Savour

Written by Chicago Office Movers on February 12, 2025. Posted in Community Events, Office Moving

Every year, the Schaumburg Business Association hosts Savour, a signature event that brings together over 700 professionals for an evening of exquisite food, fine wine, and premier networking. Held in the Schaumburg Corporate Center Atrium, this highly anticipated event showcases top culinary talents from local restaurants and caterers. But before guests can sip, sample, and socialize in this transformed space, a critical behind-the-scenes effort takes place—Chicago Office Movers clears the way.

A Six-Year Tradition of Seamless Transitions

For the past six years, Chicago Office Movers has played an essential role in making Savour possible. Our expert team arrives on-site at 6:00 AM on the day of the event, carefully relocating the furniture from the expansive atrium to ensure the space is open and ready for the night’s festivities. Just as with any move we handle, we take extreme care in protecting, storing, and later restoring each piece of furniture to its original place.

The next morning, at 6:00 AM sharp, our crew returns to meticulously move everything back—ensuring every chair, table, and fixture is exactly where it belongs. This level of precision and commitment is what sets Chicago Office Movers apart.

Expert Handling & Unmatched Flexibility

Executing a seamless transition for an event of this scale requires careful planning, adaptability, and expertise. Our team must be prepared for any logistical challenge, including storing furniture in different locations within the building based on space availability. Just as we do for our corporate clients, we apply best practices in furniture protection, ensuring that each item is safeguarded against damage.

With years of experience in commercial office and industrial relocations, we understand that timing and precision are everything. Whether it's an office move, corporate event preparation, or specialized relocation services, we bring the same level of dedication and professionalism to every job.

Creating the Perfect Setting for Schaumburg’s Biggest Night

Savour is more than just an event—it’s an experience. Guests receive a wine glass for sampling, enjoy live music, and immerse themselves in an atmosphere that fosters connection and celebration. Chicago Office Movers is proud to be the trusted partner and sponsor behind the scenes, ensuring the space is transformed flawlessly each year.

So, while attendees enjoy an evening of fine dining and professional networking, we take pride in knowing that our expertise in commercial moving and logistics helps bring it all together.

Need a Trusted Moving Partner?

If your business requires expert relocation, storage, or specialized moving services, Chicago Office Movers has the experience and flexibility to handle the job seamlessly. Visit us at ChicagoOfficeMovers.com to learn more about how we can support your next big move.

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How to Introduce the Community to Your New Office Location

Written by Chicago Office Movers on January 17, 2025. Posted in Moving Tips, Office Moving

Setting up shop in a new office location is an exciting endeavor. At the same time, it can be daunting to introduce the company to the surrounding community. Here are 10 proven strategies to make an unforgettable introduction and earn the business of the greater community.

1. Understand the Demographics

The people who live in the community can become loyal customers. By understanding who these individuals are, any marketing efforts can be tailored to their needs. Important information to collect includes the population’s income, ages, education, and occupations.

Most of the demographic data can be gleaned from online sources, such as the US Census Bureau, the local Chamber of Commerce, and similar sites. Plus, companies also benefit from identifying organizations in the community, cultural features, and local events.

2. Develop a Marketing Strategy

Tailor the marketing strategy to suit the characteristics of the population’s demographics. For instance, if seniors primarily live in the community, the marketing campaign might focus on direct mail, such as printed postcards, promotional brochures, or newsletters, to highlight the business’s goods or services.

Conversely, if young adults outnumber seniors in the community, online marketing may work well. Advertise on the company website or social media. Also take advantage of local broadcast media and issue a press release to showcase available goods and services.

3. Update the Website

Upon settling in, the company website should be updated to prominently reflect the new office location and relevant contact information, like email and phone. Add a street map and driving directions to make it convenient for nearby customers to find the business’s physical office.

Include the company in online business directories. Companies might also work with other local businesses to trade website links and feature them on each other’s sites. The web address should also be visible on any customer receipts, correspondence, and similar business documents.

4. Hold a Grand Opening Ceremony

Offices that hold a grand opening ceremony at their new location make a splash. Along with serving food and drinks, offer coupons or discounts to entice the community members to explore available goods and services. Invite local organizations and key community members to the ceremony.

5. Become Familiar with Local Officials

An effective way to become acquainted with local government officials is to invite them to the grand opening ceremony. Local congressmen and congresswomen, city clerks, city council representatives, and the mayor have insights into their community and how the office can best serve these needs.

Maintaining relationships with local government officials is an asset when the office expands. The officials are in the position to provide resources and support the office’s growth. Furthermore, officials can connect the office to similar offices, which could lead to valuable community partnerships.

6. Connect with Other Offices

Developing community partnerships is just one advantage of reaching out to other offices in the area. But when offices form allies, they support each other’s growth. Socialize with the other offices to build camaraderie: go bowling, take a tour, or hold a wine-and-cheese dining event.

Along these same lines, growing offices must network in their new location. As a place for new employment and vitality, offices new to the community spur economic development. Establish a network that is beneficial to everyone involved. Ideally, this is done before the relocation.

7. Tap Into Economic Resources

The new community may offer resources that aid in economic development, which can be advantageous to growing offices. Reach out to the community to learn about possible state grants and manufacturers, for instance. These resources help offices establish themselves and gain new business relationships.

8. Volunteer

Employees at the office may elect to volunteer their time and skills. By investing in their new community, office staff meet passionate, likeminded people, which is a networking benefit. Plus, offices that contribute their time and energy show their commitment to their new community.

9. Attend Professional Events

Attending local events is another way to introduce the office to the community. For instance, tech offices might register for tech conferences where staff have opportunities to network with likeminded professionals. Visit online event directories to learn about upcoming events.

10. Offer a Class

Depending on the nature of the business, an office might hold a class related to their services or line of products. Offering learning opportunities is a great way to showcase skills and a commitment to the community. When done effectively, this strategy draws in new customers.

Succeeding in the new office location requires planning and a long-term investment in the community. Each office that relocates brings along with it potential for economic growth and unbridled enthusiasm. By getting to know the community, the office is rewarded almost instantly.

When your business has plans to move to a vibrant, new location, enlist the help of Chicago Office Movers, a reputable commercial moving service. With our comprehensive office moving services, we’ve helped countless businesses, large and small, relocate to greener pastures.

All your moving needs are fulfilled with our expert planning, packing, transporting, and unpacking services—designed to manage the relocation from start to finish. Additional conveniences we offer include short- and long-term storage facilities, paperwork storage, and tailored add-on services.

Our licensed and background-checked commercial movers are trained and equipped to move a wide range of office items, whether bulky, oversized, or heavy. In fact, we’ve successfully transported valuable antiques, fragile artwork, sensitive IT systems, delicate electronics, and large office furniture.

Climate-controlled spaces and air-ride suspensions are available on our trucks to further protect your office goods. Corporate customers receive tracking information to track the progress of their items, whether they are being transported on our trucks or stored in our secure storage facilities.

Request a free estimate for your upcoming local, long-distance, or international move and join the ranks of several prestigious companies that rely on Chicago Office Movers. We deliver exceptional customer service and are committed to serving area businesses with excellence. Call our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, office today.

Tips for Planning a Retail Store Move

Written by Chicago Office Movers on December 26, 2024. Posted in Moving Tips, Office Moving

Planning a retail store move is a complex task—but with the right preparation and commercial mover, it can proceed smoothly and efficiently. Before setting off for more profitable pastures, retailers must plan their move. Here are 11 tips to make this giant leap a success.

Retailers move for a variety of reasons. When a competitor moves in next door, the retailer may want to relocate to a strategic area to stay competitive. Sometimes a customer base shifts to another location, making it a good business move to follow them and sustain sales.

Many retailers offer their products online. This may prompt them to open up a smaller store that offers a unique experience to complement their online store. Profits get a boost when retailers move into a space with lower rent. Conversely, a larger store is necessary to sell new product lines.

Or, a lease may simply end, prompting the retailer to find a new storefront with better terms. Whatever the reason behind the move, retailers must pick the perfect new location, keep their customers informed, and manage their inventory to ensure a seamless relocation.

Tip 1: Plan in Advance

A desirable move date aligns with the retailer’s slowest sales period. By opting for a time when business is slow, the retailer does not miss out on sales and gains greater flexibility during the move process. Overlap the lease dates to allow time to move out of the old store.

Tip 2: Thin Out Inventory

Reducing inventory before the move is a good financial strategy. The more goods a storefront has to relocate, the higher their moving costs will be. Avoid the extra expense by thinning out inventory by holding a store-wide sale—which can also serve as an effective advertisement for the new location.

Tip 3: Pack Efficiently

Streamline the packing process by either delegating it to a commercial mover or handling it in-house. Efficient packing makes it easier to unpack at the destination. Use small boxes to pack heavy items and large ones for lighter objects. Label each box with their intended location at the new store.

Tip 4: Use Storage

A climate-controlled storage facility is useful for temporarily storing sensitive products. When exploring storage units, look for one with security to safeguard valuables as well as one with easy access. A flexible storage plan is ideal, as the terms work with any relocation plan.

Tip 5: Notify Customers

Keep loyal customers in the loop. Notify them via channels, like social media and the store’s email list. Place a banner on the store’s website with the new location and its effective date. Hang signs inside the store to alert walk-in customers. Consider sending a press release to local media.

Tip 6: Notify Employees

Employees are the backbone of a successful retail store. Make a formal announcement to let them know about the move before notifying customers. Provide staff with information about amenities, like coffee shops, or gyms, in the new location to drum up excitement.

Tip 7: Set Up Early

Setting up the new storefront early allows the retailer to be up and running quickly. Arrange for utilities and internet before moving in. Plan the layout so staff knows where merchandise goes. If renovations are needed, perform them while the new store is still empty.

Tip 8: Plan for Downtime

Even amid the frenzy of the store move, downtime is expected. Maintain the sales momentum by offering pre-orders via the online store. Use the time to train employees on new systems or processes. Practice good customer service by letting customers know of any anticipated interruptions.

Tip 9: Use Technology

Streamline the move by harnessing the power of today’s advanced technology. Keep track of the inventory being moved with inventory management software. Set up cloud-based systems to access data from any location. Project management tools keep the entire move organized.

Tip 10: Mind the Details

Pay attention to the details to ensure the move goes smoothly. Technology is vital, but keep backup paper copies of important documents in a safe place. Create a floorplan of the new store and photograph the current space to simplify setup and recreate current displays.

Tip 11: Hire a Commercial Mover

A commercial mover is a pivotal partner for ensuring the transition is a success. Choose an experienced mover with a track record of carefully moving antiques, sensitive electronics, or large items. If special requirements are necessary for moving delicate items, discuss them with the mover.

Book a commercial moving service well in advance. Certain months of the year, like during the summer season, are busiest for movers. Avoid peak times and schedule the relocation outside of normal business hours, like weekends or evenings, to minimize disruptions to business operations.

The right commercial mover, like Chicago Office Movers, offers convenient services important to retailers, such as secure storage facilities and packing and unpacking services, among others. We’re experienced in moving businesses of all sizes and are ready to relocate your retail store, too.

Whether you need large equipment or small, delicate items relocated, our moving crews are equipped to handle the task. We’ve moved lab equipment, heavy electronics, and even assembly lines with utmost care. Our electrical generators can also power your machinery.

Our experienced movers have helped countless local businesses relocate, including well-known universities and major corporations. Whether you own a small storefront or run a large corporation, we possess the equipment, trained labor force, and skill to facilitate a smooth move.

Each of our licensed movers is qualified to handle your store’s goods. Plus, they are background checked, ensuring your merchandise is in safe hands. When you’re looking for a commercial mover invested in eco-friendly practices and green moving supplies, choose our green company.

When your retail store is planning to move down the street or across the ocean, Chicago Office Movers is prepared to accommodate your relocation needs. Expect an efficient, timely and budget-friendly move. Call our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, office today to request a free estimate.

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