Relocating your office is an exciting step for any business, but it also comes with important logistical decisions, such as determining which items to bring and which to leave behind. Moving offices allows you to start fresh, reduce clutter, and streamline your workspace for increased efficiency. Understanding what to leave behind can simplify your move and make setting up your new space easier.
Working with a reliable corporate moving company can make this process even smoother. Professionals can assist in managing logistics and ensuring that unnecessary items are properly left behind or disposed of. In this guide, we’ll discuss the key things to consider when vacating your office space.

What to Leave Behind When Moving Offices
1. Leave Old or Damaged Furniture
Your furniture is one of the most important things to assess during an office move. If you’ve used the same desks, chairs, and cabinets for years, now might be the time to leave them behind. Outdated or damaged furniture not only adds to the clutter of your new space but can also cost extra to move.
Moving to a new office allows you to upgrade to more modern, ergonomic furniture that fits your new environment better. Consider leaving behind pieces that are worn, broken, or no longer fit the style and function of your updated office layout.
2. Leave Built-in or Custom Furniture
Built-in furniture is designed specifically for the space it occupies, so moving it to a new location might not be practical. Custom shelving, counters, or cabinetry may not fit into the layout or dimensions of your new office.
Moreover, disassembling and moving these items can be costly and time-consuming. The best choice is often to leave them behind for the next tenant or work with the property owner to remove them before you vacate.
3. Leave Outdated Technology and Equipment
Technology evolves rapidly, and many offices accumulate outdated or non-functional equipment over time. Printers, computers, telephones, and other electronics that are no longer in good working condition should be left behind.
Moving obsolete technology only adds unnecessary weight to your load and can clutter your new office space. Instead, this is an excellent opportunity to invest in updated equipment that enhances productivity and streamlines your office’s technological infrastructure.
If the technology is still functional but no longer meets your needs, consider donating it to a local school, nonprofit organization, or the incoming tenants. Working with a moving company can help ensure that obsolete items are properly handled or disposed of according to local regulations.
4. Leave Non-Essential Documents and Files
Office moves are a perfect time to declutter your files and documents. Many businesses store piles of paperwork that no longer serve a purpose, leading to clutter and disorganization. Review your files and shred any non-essential documents to reduce the paperwork you need to move. This is especially important if transitioning to a more digital office setup.
Consult any legal or regulatory guidelines regarding document retention to ensure that you discard only necessary paperwork. Going paperless wherever possible can free up valuable space and streamline your operations in the new office.
5. Leave Office Plants
While office plants can brighten up your workspace, they’re often difficult to move. Large or delicate plants may not survive the stress of being transported, and finding a place for them in your new office can be challenging. If you’ve been leasing plants from a vendor, those plants should stay behind as part of your agreement.
If you own the plants, consider gifting them to the next tenants, employees, or nearby businesses who can take care of them. This ensures the plants continue to thrive without adding unnecessary complexity to your move.

6. Leave Non-Transferable Branding Materials
Items like wall decals, signage, or customized branding materials designed specifically for your current office may not be worth moving. These materials are often difficult to transfer without damage, and they may not suit the style or layout of your new space.
Moving to a new office is a great opportunity to refresh your brand with updated signage and decor. Consider leaving behind outdated or location-specific branding materials and planning for a fresh design in your new workspace.
7. Leave Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials, such as cleaning supplies, chemicals, or flammable items, should not be transported to your new office, especially in moving trucks. Many moving companies, including moving companies, have strict rules about transporting hazardous materials for safety reasons.
Properly disposing of these materials or donating them to local organizations can help avoid safety risks. Before leaving them behind, always check local regulations regarding the safe disposal of hazardous substances.
8. Leave Temporary or Disposable Office Supplies
If your office has been using temporary or disposable supplies like whiteboards, signs, or modular partitions, it may be best to stop. These items are often low-cost and designed for short-term use.
Moving them could create clutter in your new office, and they may not fit with its layout or design. Instead, consider donating these items to local schools or community organizations or leaving them behind for the next tenants.
9. Leave Heavy Fixtures and Installations
Heavy fixtures such as lighting, HVAC units, or built-in storage systems are typically part of the office’s infrastructure and should be left behind. These items are often difficult to remove and may not be allowed to be taken under your lease agreement.
It’s best to leave these fixtures intact to avoid costly repairs or penalties from the property owner. Communicate with the building management team to ensure all fixtures are in good condition.
10. Leave Leased Items
If your office includes leased equipment or furniture, those items should stay behind unless you’ve made arrangements with the leasing company. Your company does not own leased items, and taking them to a new location may violate the terms of your lease agreement.
Review all contracts and coordinate with the leasing company to ensure a smooth handover of these items. Leaving leased equipment behind prevents complications and ensures a cleaner, more organized move.

Why Partnering with a Corporate Moving Company Helps
Working with a reliable moving company is important when moving your office. At Pink Zebra Moving, we can help you pack, transport, and set up your new office space efficiently. This frees up your time to focus on your business while the professionals handle the heavy lifting. Contact us today to book your next move!