11 Things to Look for in a Moving Company

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

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

1. Get a Complete Estimate

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

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

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

2. Choose a Company with One Name

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

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

3. Never Pay a Large Deposit

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

4. Create an Inventory

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

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

5. Look at Reviews

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

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

6. Be Aware of Extra Fees

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

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

7. Be Aware of the Packing Process

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

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

8. Know Your Moving Contract

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

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

9. Report Any and All Problems

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

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

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

10. Never Sign a Blank Moving Contract

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

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

11. Choose Insurance and Protection Plan

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

Choose a Reliable Moving Company

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

Work with Chicago Office Movers

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

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

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

Contact Us

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

Homeowners who work remotely will need a home office. Sometimes, a residential home or apartment has limited space. When space is tight and work needs are pressing, property owners can find workarounds. Here are ways to create a functional home office in a small area.

1. Find a nook

The first step in creating a small home office in a limited space is to find an appropriate nook. Ideally, this place will be quiet and have limited distractions. A property owner should be able to accomplish work tasks without disruptions—making finding the right space paramount.

Someone who lives in a home with multiple bedrooms has plenty of home office location options. Simply turn one of the unused bedrooms into a functional office space. Or, if the home is a studio apartment, consider setting up room partitions to separate the work and living spaces.

The empty space under the stairs can be transformed into a small office. A hallway offers plenty of horizontal space for a creative home office. A walk-in closet or wardrobe area can be updated to serve work needs. In such tight spaces, every inch is put to good use.

The office nook should be a quiet one. This means finding a space where other householders do not normally congregate. Avoid setting up the office in the center of the busy kitchen, for instance. A functional home office keeps the professional and personal life separate.

2. Install equipment

A computer, office accessories, and a printer will need a desk upon which to sit. When looking for desks, choose one that maximizes the limited office space. Homeowners have multiple options: L-shaped desks that fit into corners, writing desks propped against the wall, or floating desks.

A flip-down desk can be made upright when not in use. Consider that spaces can have multiple uses. A dressing table in the guest bedroom can double as a work desk. Alternately, turn a nightstand, dining table or coffee table into a temporary or permanent workstation.

In small nooks with laminate flooring, add a faux fur rug to soften up the workspace. Keep office supplies, such as staples and paperclips, nearby. Divide drawers, reuse jars, or utilize hanging hooks to create inventive storage spaces for the office supplies.

Even when the space is small, a home office should feature ergonomic office furniture. Opt for a chair with back support. Ideally, the chair’s height will keep the user at eye level with the computer screen. This setup promotes healthy blood flow and reduces back and shoulder problems.

A small office space may prompt homeowners to use a desk chair that doubles as dining room seating. No matter what type of chair is utilized in a small home office, it should slide easily under the desk. For this reason, avoid choosing a wide office chair with bulky armrests.

3. Utilize vertical space

A small workstation may have limited horizontal space. Workers, however, can efficiently utilize the ample vertical space. The full height of the wall can be used for shelving. Drawers can be stacked. Repurpose the area below the desk and optimize storage space.

4. Add lighting

Natural or artificial lighting is important in a small home office, especially for those who work long hours at the desk. Two sources of light are recommended: a main light and a desk lamp. Combine overhead lights with adjustable lamps for ample lighting in the small area.

If practical, set up the home office near a window. Exposure to sunlight is important for not only physical but emotional well-being. Sunlight gives the body a healthy dose of vitamin D, while helping workers feel emotionally charged and alert.

5. Organize cables

A home office will be fitted with technology, from computers to printers. Electronics will cause a chaotic clutter of cables. Keep productivity up by maintaining a clean, clutter-free work environment. Tuck the cables away behind the walls. Prevent tangled cables by using bread clips.

6. Limit distractions

A small home office may have limited desk space. Nevertheless, it is important to keep essentials nearby. A water bottle or coffee mug, for instance, takes up minimal desk space, but keeps the worker refreshed throughout the workday. A visit to the kitchen, on the other hand, can be distracting.

7. Add accessories

House plants are perfect office accessories. Potted plants add visual interest as well as introduce a continual supply of oxygen to the home office space. Plants help to keep the home office user calm, as a result. Consider adding vertical shelving for the plants if desk space is limited.

While the smallest home or apartment can be creatively transformed to accommodate a home office, your company may be planning to relocate to a bigger or smaller facility. If so, choose a top-notch commercial mover, like Chicago Office Movers. We help companies of all sizes relocate successfully.

Work with a Commercial Mover

A corporate move requires months of planning. At Chicago Office Movers, we’ll support you throughout the relocation process. Our experienced specialists offer advice and planning strategies. Moving crews are available to both pack and unpack office goods. We also provide short- and long-term storage.

Your office move will be handled with utmost care by our licensed, union movers. We have experience safely relocating a variety of delicate office goods, including IT systems, science lab equipment, and fragile electronics. We move office furniture of all sizes, as well as machinery and cubicles.

Working with Chicago Office Movers ensures that your business resumes operations in a timely manner. Disruptions to employee productivity are minimal when our movers handle the packing for you. Once at the new destination, our efficient unpacking services have your company back up and running fast.

Contact Us

Choose Chicago Office Movers for your upcoming office relocation and join the ranks of our countless satisfied corporate customers, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent. We facilitate a smooth office relocation that stays within budget and on schedule.

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

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.

Relocating a business to Chicago requires that the essential utilities be set up beforehand. Once the utilities are turned on prior to the move, businesses can resume operations without further interruption. Setting up business utilities in the Windy City is a straightforward process.

What are basic business utilities?

A utility company is responsible for delivering utilities to a business. In addition to everyday operating costs, the business will pay utility bills. At a minimum, relocating companies require basic utilities, such as electricity, water, gas, trash pickup, internet, and phone.

Utility costs vary significantly from company to company. Variables that affect the price of monthly utilities include the square footage of the building, geographic location of the company, industry, energy utilization, and several other factors. Energy is among the biggest overhead costs for a business.

1. Electricity

Electricity is one of the major utilities a business needs to operate. The local electric company will set up and physically deliver the electricity to its service area. Energy is required to power the office’s lights, computers, AC, refrigerators, and printers. The business will pay a supply and delivery charge.

As a northern Illinois city, Chicago receives its electricity through Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd). A subsidiary of Exelon Corporation (the nation’s leading competitive energy supplier), ComEd distributes electricity to four million local customers. Businesses can set up and manage an account via the ComEd website.

2. Water and Sewer

Water and sewer are essential utilities to set up when relocating to the Windy City. Company bathrooms, kitchen sinks and water fountains rely on the water supply to function. Every business, whether it sells food, electronics, or other consumer items, depends on water as a resource.

Prior to relocating to Chicago, businesses will be required to contact the City of Chicago Water Management, which delivers clean drinking water. The Department of Water Management is also responsible for removing storm runoff and wastewater through the sewer system.

3. Natural Gas

Natural gas will soon be the fuel of choice for various corporations. In commercial buildings, natural gas powers heating systems, water heaters, and air conditioners. Manufacturing facilities depend on natural gas to run machines that prepare electronics, home furnishings, and appliances for consumers.

Close to 850,000 local customers rely on Peoples Gas for the regular supply of natural gas. Companies relocating to the Windy City can connect service by accessing the Peoples Gas website, following the online prompts, and finally setting up an account. Bill management is available online, too.

4. Internet

Internet is increasingly becoming viewed as an essential utility, much like electricity. Businesses without access to the internet are severely disadvantaged. Companies that conduct online activities, utilize online content providers, or make use of social media networks require an internet connection.

Chicago’s largest internet provider is Xfinity. Through the various bundles offered by Xfinity, even small companies have access to big business capabilities. Buying a monthly package is as easy as visiting the Xfinity website, choosing a plan, and following the online prompts.

5. Trash Service

Waste removal services are necessary for the disposal of garbage, recyclables, and organic waste materials. An office may be provided different types of bins to hold various waste products. Each of these bins are picked up by the trash service at different rates.

Chicago businesses rely on the various trash services offered through the DSS. Not only are DSS crews responsible for trash pickup and recycling, but they also handle tree trimming, graffiti removal, rodent control, towing, snow removal, and lot cleaning—which are relevant to major area corporations.

Trash service can be set up through the City of Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS). The DSS makes an impact on the cleanliness of the city by responding to over one million service requests annually. Visit the DSS website to set up an account and manage monthly bills.

6. Security

While the utilities are the basics, large corporations might include security services as an essential part of their utility budget. Companies who require security are advised to consult a public utility security service to safeguard the facility against threats.

Do companies need an EIN to set up utilities?

A company does not need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to set up and administer business utilities. However, utility companies may accept the EIN in lieu of a social security number. An EIN is a type of federal tax ID that can be useful when applying for business utilities.

When relocating a business to Chicago or starting a new one here, setting up utilities is critical to success. Employees require running water, electricity, internet, and a clean workspace to perform. Ensure workflow continues without interruption by setting up utilities before the move.

Work with a Commercial Mover

Setting up utilities is just one step of many in the relocation process. Before packing up the office, consult a professional corporate relocation company, like Chicago Office Movers. Our years of experience in office relocation will ensure that your move is as stress-free as possible.

When choosing Chicago Office Movers for your corporate relocation, you can be assured that the move will stay within budget. Our moving crews are highly trained and experienced—which allows them to perform their job efficiently, skillfully, and without delays.

Countless local companies continue to rely on Chicago Office Movers for our quality service, professionalism throughout the relocation process, and affordability. We’ve helped universities and major corporations, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent, move seamlessly, earning us multiple five-star ratings.

Working with us gives your company access to professional packing services, short- or long-term storage, relocation planning assistance, and moving equipment that is guaranteed to protect fragile office goods. We also move items securely, which is a benefit for security-conscious companies.

Contact Us

When you seek a reliable office mover, schedule Chicago Office Movers to handle your relocation from start to finish. We are available to help you move locally, long distance, or internationally.

Call our office at 312-244-2246 for a free estimate.

Some people are natural leaders who like to be in charge or be their own boss. This can make every day corporate life unappealing for these individuals and the idea of starting their own small business an attractive pursuit. But not all businesses are suited well for every area. When you are considering starting your own small business, you must consider the area, its people, and its needs. Otherwise, you may not achieve the success you are striving for.

There are a variety of small businesses that are well-suited for a major city like Chicago. So, if you want to start and/or invest in a profitable small business in the city, then continue reading for the best types of businesses to pursue.

1. Tour Guide Agency

Chicago is a top tourist destination, making a tour guide business a great investment if you have the expertise to be an informative, knowledgeable tour guide. To begin working as a tour guide, you just need to obtain a license. While general Chicago knowledge is excellent to have if you want to be a tour guide and/or start a tour guide business, consider starting a niche tour guide business to separate your agency from others. For example, instead of starting a tour guide business for Chicago in general, focus on Chicago sports, art, history, or food.

2. Marketing Agency

Chicago is a vast city with a seemingly never-ending list of businesses in the city and suburbs. While some places will be able to handle marketing on their own, a great number of businesses will need outside help. So, if you have the marketing savvy to help other people sell their products and push their services, then you could find your own success in marketing.

3. Placement Agency

As one of the largest cities in the U.S., Chicago is home to many businesses small and large covering a number of different industries. There are plenty of jobs to be had in Chicago and many people looking for a good job. Starting a placement agency is a great way to capitalize on this and help people find the best jobs for them while helping business fill their staff with the best possible candidates. Starting a placement agency requires a small initial investment and charging a reasonable commission for job placements will earn you good profits.

4. Hostile Business

People come to Chicago from all over the U.S. and the world for education, work, and to visit the city. You can cater to Chicago’s many tourists, students, and jobseekers from out of town by starting a hostel.  If you can acquire a building downtown close to corporate centers and educational institutions, you should invest in turning the building into a hostile. Charging reasonable rates will attract those coming to study or work in the city which will not only help you earn back your investment but also make a good profit.

5. Event Management Business

In a popular, lively city like Chicago, there are many events going on throughout the year. This means that someone needs to be coordinating and managing these events. Starting an event management company is a good choice with a lot of potential if you have great managerial skills.

6. Catering Company

Where there is an event, there is usually a need for food. Beginning a catering business is a great choice, and you do not have to be a gourmet cook to do so. You simply need the commitment, professionalism, and management skills to run a successful business. You can run the business yourself, hiring a lead cook, assistant chefs, and servers to handle the cooking, serving, and setup of the food. To help distinguish your company from other catering businesses, focus on a certain type or style of food to cater and offer.

7. Food Truck

A great thing about food trucks is that they are mobile businesses and not stationary storefronts like other restaurants. This expands the business’s reach and can also make it seem more exclusive as customers are aware that the truck will not always be around. A food truck is a low investment and a good way to showcase some of the food Chicago is known for.

8. Coffee Shop

Many adults enjoy indulging in a fresh cup of coffee and often need it to help them get the workday started. Some people even seek fresh coffee in the middle of the day, finding they need a pick-me-up to help them get through the rest of the workday. If you start a coffee shop in a good location, market it well, and offer a fair-priced selection of drinks (and food if you desire), then you could have a thriving small business on your hands.

Trusted Help from Commercial Movers

If you are looking to start a small business and will be moving into an office space or storefront, it will take a lot of work to get all your contents and equipment to the property. You can make this move less stressful by seeking assistance from Chicago Office Movers. We are commercial movers who can be of assistance to small businesses in need of office moving and office relocation services.

We are the most trusted moving company in Chicagoland, having satisfactorily worked with major corporations as well as renowned universities. All our movers have undergone a background check and possess the necessary training, proper licenses, and experience to provide exceptional office moving services and customer service.

Within our office moving services, we use climate-controlled moving trucks that ensure your business belongings and equipment will be safe and secure. The trucks use air-ride suspensions and lift gates to safely move and transport your goods. Furthermore, we provide our customers with consistent tracking updates using professional tracking equipment, allowing you to follow along with the moving journey.

No matter what small business you are looking to pursue, Chicago Office Movers can help with your office moving.

Get a Free Estimate

Call us at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) for a free estimate regarding our office moving services.