How to Organize Your Office Before You Move In
The first thing you need to do when you’re ready to move into your new office space is organize everything. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of stuff you’ll be taking with you, and it’s even easier to forget about some of the items you’ll need to keep.
Before you start packing up boxes, though, look at your office space and figure out what you need to organize before you pack anything away. Take a look at our guide below for tips on how to organize your office before you move in.
1. Sort Through All Of Your Papers
You may have hundreds of papers scattered throughout your house. Don’t let them pile up any longer than necessary. Instead, get rid of old documents, receipts, invoices, and other paperwork that you don’t need.
2. Separate Important Documents From Unimportant Ones
It can be challenging to tell which documents are essential and which ones aren’t. If you’ve been keeping all of your important papers together, now’s the time to separate those from the rest of your files.
3. Make A List Of What To Keep And What To Throw Away
Now that you know exactly what you want to keep make sure you write down where each item should go. This will help you avoid forgetting something vital later on.
4. Put Everything Back Into Its Proper Place
Once you’ve separated your essential documents from the rest of your paperwork, put them back in their proper places. Be careful not to place things in an area where they might fall or spillover. Also, try to find a spot that makes sense for each file type. For example, if you work in marketing, you probably won’t want to store financial records there.
5. Label Each Box With The Name Of The Person Who Will Use It Next
If you’re moving into a shared workspace, this step isn’t as important. However, if you’re planning on storing personal belongings in a storage unit after you move out, label every box so that you remember who owns it.
6. Pack Up Any Items That Are Too Big Or Heavy For Moving Day
Make sure that you only bring items that are small enough to fit inside your car. If you leave behind large pieces of furniture, you could end up paying extra fees just to ship them.
7. Buy Storage Bins At The Store
If you’re going to use a self-storage facility instead of renting one, you’ll need to buy storage bins. These containers come in various sizes and shapes, depending on what you plan to store. They also come in different materials like plastic, metal, wood, glass, etc.
8. Decide Whether You Want To Rent Or Own A Self-Storage Facility
There are pros and cons to both options. If you decide to rent a self-storage facility, you’ll pay monthly rental fees. On the other hand, if you decide to own your own storage unit, you’ll save money upfront, but you’ll have to spend more money on maintenance costs.
9. Consider Using An Online Service Like Moveline
Online services like Moveline allow you to search through thousands of storage facilities across North America. In addition, you can filter results based on location, size, price, amenities, and more.
10. Check Out Local Businesses To See Which One Has The Best Price
Don’t assume that the cheapest option is always best. Some companies charge extra fees because they offer better service. Look around online to see which local businesses offer the most affordable rates.
11. Choose A Company Based On Their Reputation
A good company has a solid reputation and offers excellent customer support. Ask friends and family members for recommendations.
12. Find Out How Much Space Is Available
Some companies require you to sign a contract before you can reserve a certain amount of space. Others give you flexibility. Either way, check to see whether you can lock in a specific amount of space before you commit to using a particular company.
13. Shop Around For Different Types Of Storage Containers
Different types of storage containers have varying levels of security. For example, you may prefer a steel container if you have valuable electronics stored in your home. However, a wooden crate would be ideal for storing books and clothes.
14. Determine Whether You Need Insurance
Insurance protects you against theft, fire damage, water damage, and more. Depending on the level of coverage you choose, you may be able to reduce your premium payments.
15. Contact The Right Companies To Set Up Security Cameras And Alarms
Security cameras and alarms protect your valuables during transit. Most companies provide 24/7 monitoring, so you never have to worry about missing an alert.
16. Book Your Shipping Date As Soon As Possible
Shipping day varies depending on the company you hire. Some companies will pick up your goods within 48 hours while others will wait until next week. If possible, book your shipping date as soon as you know you’re moving.
17. Order Supplies Ahead Of Time
You’ll likely need to order supplies ahead of time. For instance, if you’re moving into a coworking space, you’ll need to purchase desks, chairs, printers, computers, and other equipment.
18. Create A Budget Plan
Your budget needs to include the cost of the move itself plus additional expenses. For example, you may need to pay for movers, insurance, and storage fees. Once you’ve created a budget, stick to it!
19. Start Packing Now
Start packing your household items right away. Then, when you finish unpacking, you’ll already have a head start on organizing your office.
20. Remember: It’s OK To Skip Certain Things
Sometimes, you simply can’t afford to replace everything. For example, instead of spending $100 on a desk chair, you may decide to skip it altogether.
21. Do Not Overpack
Overpacking means you’re bringing too much stuff. If you’re worried about leaving something behind, consider hiring professional movers.
22. Bring Only Essential Items
Bringing unnecessary items means you’re wasting money. Instead, save yourself some cash by removing items from your list.
23. Avoid Overspending On Small Expenses
If you’re having trouble sticking to your budget, cut back on small purchases. For example, paying for coffee once or twice a week doesn’t add much, but it adds up quickly if you continue doing it regularly.
24. Donate Anything You No Longer Need
If you no longer need an item, donate it to charity. Doing so helps you clear clutter without breaking the bank.
25. Remove Clutter From Your Home
Clutter takes up precious space. So if you haven’t used a piece of furniture in several months, chances are it’s time to toss it.
26. Clean Every Room In Your House
Cleaning your entire house from top to bottom will ensure that you don’t miss a single detail.
27. Declutter Your Desk Area
Decluttering your desk area will free up lots of room for filing. You can either remove everything from your current setup or create a minimalist design.
28. Clean Your Computer Desktop
Clean off your desktop before you begin working. Afterward, you can add icons and pictures to inspire creativity.
29. Go Paperless
Go paperless by replacing bulky folders with digital versions. You can access these files anywhere you go, so you’ll never lose another report again.
30. Reorganize Your Files
Reorganizing your files allows you to cleanse your mind. You can delete old files, reorganize categories, and change folder names.
Take a look at your office space before moving in. Take a peek at your storage containers and find out what you need to keep. Check out local businesses to see if you can save money. Don’t forget to buy your own storage facility. Do not overpack your desk for moving in or rent a storage facility instead. Try using an online service like Moveline to search for your items. Share your story with CNN iReport. Click here for more information. Read more about how to organize your office. Watch CNN Living Living on CNN Living.
