Keeping Office Tech Save During a Move
The one downside of having so much technology integrated into the various areas of business is the complication it can add whenever the office needs to relocate. The whole moving process used to be more simple, with just having to store files in boxes and start carting them away. Now, there are many things to consider with keeping your office tech and data safe as you prepare to move offices.
- Follow the Manual
Before you assume you know what your doing, get out the product manual and find out how you should prepare for the move. Some equipment might need the ink or toners cartridges removed, while other things will need to be backed up to hard disks. Your goal is to protect the physical item but also any digital contents associated with it.
- Use Original Boxes
Few companies save the original packing of electronic equipment, but this is one of the safest ways to repack the item during a move. It can be hard to find packing materials that fit the unique shape of the item, which leaves the potential for damage during transport.
- Alternate Packing Materials
If you don’t have access to the original packaging, you can use study cartons, recycled newspaper, scissors, packing tape, and a marker for labeling. You can also use Styrofoam packing peanuts or bubble wrap for added cushioning.
- Stickers and Bags
When you disconnect or disassemble your electronics, color code the cords with stickers and place a matching sticker on the area of the device where the cord is to be connected. Pack all of the cords for a device into a Ziplock bag, label the bag, and tape the bag to the device or put it inside the box.
- Sturdy Moving Tools
If you are going to be moving large copy machines and the packed boxes, don’t rely on muscle alone. Make sure you are using moving dollies with heavy duty swivel caster connections, as this will help stabilized the equipment as you navigate it through rooms, hallways, sidewalks, and the moving truck.
- Storage Preparation
Some electronic devices, like computers and television, are sensitive to extreme temperatures. If your items will be in storage or sent to a facility before it is up and running, check with the manufacturer to see if your items need climate-controlled storage.
- Security Measures
Label your boxes of electronics discreetly, using office locations or other codes to signify what is in the box. This can help prevent theft while items are in storage or left at a new location.
Electronics and tech can be one of the most expensive office investments. Take extreme care when moving it around to avoid damage.
