Making sure your home office is ready to go on moving day requires some planning. These four tips can help you pack up your office so it's easy to move, whether you're moving it yourself or bringing in professionals for the heavy lifting and transport.

Tip #1: Backup and Record

Chances are your computer and other tech equipment is your biggest concern when it comes to packing the office. Begin by backing up all files on your computer to an external hard drive or a cloud service. Although it's unlikely that damage will occur, it is always safest to be prepared. Next, take a photograph of the back of your computer, printer, and any other peripherals. This will provide a priceless aid when it comes to plugging everything back in at your new place. You may also want to mark and record each cord to ease reassembly.

Tip #2: Managing the Weight

Books are often one of the heaviest and most cumbersome items to move. Keeping the boxes small is key to managing the weight. Use small, sturdy boxes and tape the bottoms well so they don't give out. Then, pack books of similar size in each box to make filling them easier. It's best to lay books flat in the box so the spines don't break. There's no need to wrap books, unless you have old volumes that you want to protect from damage. In this case, wrap each book with a sheet of acid-free paper to protect the pages from moisture and discoloration during the move.

Tip #3: File Basics

Many home offices depend on a file system to manage both business and home paperwork. Packing it correctly ensures your system doesn't get skewed during the move. Extra large rubber bands make an excellent moving tool when it comes to keeping your files in order. Break the files up into chunks, perhaps two or three per drawer, and secure each chunk together by wrapping a rubber band around it tightly. You can then leave the files in the drawers, removing each drawer from the cabinet to move it, or you can transfer the files to a file box for moving.

Tip #4: Some (Dis)assembly Required

Most office furniture is modular, so it comes apart fairly easily. Disassembled furniture is also less likely to break, since it isn't usually meant to be moved fully assembled. Take a picture of each piece before taking it apart so you have a rough visual to follow during reassembly. You may also want to mark pieces or screws with tape labels to aid reassembly later. Then, keep all hardware together in a small bag, labeled with the furniture piece it belongs to. Keep all the hardware for all the office furniture in one coffee can or box, labeled with the contents.

To learn more, contact a moving company like Absolute Moving & Storage Inc.