Editorial Credit: StockCake.Com
Redecorating an office is exciting – a fresh look can bring new energy to the workspace.
But before the paint rollers start moving, you’ll need to carefully pack up everything to keep it safe and organised.
Here’s a guide to making packing during an office redecoration as smooth as possible.
Gather Your Essentials
Before starting the packing process, get a few supplies ready. You’ll need:
- Sturdy boxes in various sizes
- Heavy-duty tape
- A utility knife or pair of scissors
- Permanent markers
- Plastic bags for smaller items
- Bubble wrap or soft blankets for padding delicate items
- Labels or coloured stickers for easy organisation
This will save last-minute trips to the shop and keep everything neat.
Start With A Packing Schedule
Give yourself plenty of time to pack, ideally starting a week or two before the redecoration begins.
Focus first on items you won’t need immediately, like seasonal decor, archived files, or spare office supplies. If you can tackle one area at a time, it’ll prevent the space from turning into a maze of half-packed boxes.
Pack Electronics Carefully
Office equipment like computers, monitors, and printers need extra care.
Here’s a trick: take photos of each setup before unplugging anything, especially the cable configurations. It’ll make reassembling everything much easier later on. Wrap cords individually, secure them in plastic bags, and label them for each device.
For fragile screens, wrap them in bubble wrap and secure them with tape. If you have original boxes, use those; otherwise, place them in well-padded boxes to prevent damage.
Label Everything
Clearly labelling each box with its contents and area (such as “Reception Desk Items” or “Filing Cabinet Essentials”) will save you hours when it’s time to unpack. Colour coding can be a lifesaver – assign each area a colour and pop a sticker on the box.
It’s a simple way to keep things orderly, especially if you’re dealing with multiple rooms or departments.
Protect Fragile Items
If your office has artwork, decorative items, or anything fragile, wrap them individually in bubble wrap or use soft towels for padding.
For mirrors or glass frames, place an “X” across the surface with tape; it can help prevent shattering if they happen to take a knock.
Use Suitcases For Paperwork And Files
Filing cabinets are often a bit heavy to handle in one go, so pack loose files and documents into suitcases.
It’ll make moving them easier, and the wheels come in handy for heavier loads. Plus, you’ll be less likely to misplace important documents in transit.
Keep Important Documents Accessible
For items you’ll want to access quickly after redecoration, like essential documents, your favourite mug, or even a few pens and notepads, pack them separately in a clearly labelled box or bag.
Keep these close to hand so you don’t have to dig through multiple boxes to get settled back in.
Stack Boxes Wisely
When it comes to loading everything up, start with the heaviest and largest items at the bottom of each stack.
This way, lighter and smaller boxes aren’t crushed. Packing everything snugly will also prevent shifting during the moving process.
Create A “First Day Back” Box
When it’s time to move back in, having an essentials box can make the process less hectic.
Pack basics like cleaning wipes, kettle, mugs, and maybe a few snacks – anything that will make the first day back feel comfortable and familiar amidst the newly decorated surroundings.
Declutter As You Pack
A redecoration is a perfect excuse to declutter. As you pack, consider what’s essential and what’s simply taking up space.
Outdated files, old decor, or anything that doesn’t fit with the new office look can be donated or recycled. Not only will it make packing easier, but it’ll give your refreshed office a more open, organised feel.
By following these steps, you’ll keep your office tidy and protected throughout the redecoration process.
So, when the walls are painted, and the decor’s in place, unpacking will be a breeze, and your office will feel like new in no time. Happy packing!
If you need help packing and are looking for professional office movers or short-term storage, visit The Box Co. today.
