People say that all you need to run a successful business is capital and determination, but it helps if you have an office equipped with the right supplies. A well-stocked office means more efficient operations and fewer unnecessary hassles.
Being in charge of office supplies is probably foreign terrain for you, but it’s not an insurmountable task if you have a checklist like this.
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1. Computer/Laptop
No business can operate without a computer. You might have been using your personal laptop, but if you’re not ready to use it for business-related purposes, invest in a new machine.
You can purchase a used laptop or computer, but make sure it has adequate ram and operating speed to run modern computer programs.
2. Scanner Copier
While paperless operations are growing more popular, we haven’t found a way to eradicate paper from business yet. You’ll need a machine that can both print and copy papers as well as scan them into a computer. Scanning and emailing documents is an important part of collaborations that many businesses rely on.
3. Paper Shredder
A paper shredder might seem like a non-essential when you’re starting out, but if you work with sensitive information, it’s absolutely critical. You’ll likely have to print and copy sensitive customer information, and when you’re done, you’ll need to dispose of these documents. Since a fire in an office trash can is hardly suitable, a paper shredder is the next best thing!
4. Pen, Paper, And Other Desk Essentials
If you’ve ever worked in an office before, you know it’s pretty well equipped. You’ll need:
- Pens
- Pencils
- Copy paper
- Notepads
- Whiteboard markers
- Paper clips
- Stapler
- Staple remover
- Sticky notes
- Whiteout
- Ruler
- Stationery
- File Folders
- Scissors
It’s nice to have all the supplies you might need at any given time.
5. Ergonomic Furniture
When purchasing desks and chairs, consider ergonomics, a term that refers to efficiency and adequate support. Chairs and desks should be appropriate height to avoid employees developing carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, and neck problems.
You might also consider sit-stand desks. This allows employees to adjust the desk height from sitting level to standing level so they can stand or walk in place while they work. It’s healthier than sitting in a chair and will promote health, efficiency, and productivity in the workplace.
6. Storage Space
Storage and filing cabinets will keep you organized. These storage bins do not need to be fancy. Any simple storage units—metal, plastic, or even wood—will do the trick.
7. Décor
Decorating your office might be low on your priority list, but it can improve morale. Landscape artwork, window treatments, relaxing paint colors, and more can all promote productivity, efficiency, and calm in your new office.
8. Mail Supplies
You could stand in line at the post office, or you could keep mail supplies in your own office. Stock up on envelopes, mailers, boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, mailing labels, postage stamps, a weight scale, and more.
You might also consider a subscription to Stamps.com. This service allows you to weigh packages and purchase and print stamps online. Once a package is ready, you simply drop it off at the post office.
9. First Aid Kit
You could experience a number of accidents in the workplace, from paper cuts to slip and fall accidents. When that happens, you’ll be glad to have a first aid kit handy. Keep it well stocked and organized with a first-aid instruction booklet so all employees can administer first-aid when necessary.
10. Janitorial Supplies
Unless you’re lucky enough to rent an office in a building with its own janitor, you’re in charge of cleaning and waste management. Along with having enough trash cans for each desk, purchase a variety of cleaning supplies, especially if you have an office kitchen. You’ll need things like:
- Trash bags
- Dish soap
- Sponges and dishcloths
- Clorox wipes
- All-purpose spray
- Duster
- Broom and dustpan
- Vacuum cleaner
- Toilet cleaner and brush
- Plunger
- Mop
11. Software
Before beginning your business, make a few software installs. First and foremost, you’ll need Microsoft Office Suite, a commerce standard. You might also consider other software that startups often use successfully like Quickbooks, a project management software, and useful apps.
12. Batteries And Surge Protectors
You can’t rely on electricity every day of the year. The power could go out in a storm, and when it does, it could fry your hardware if you don’t have a surge protector.
Batteries are also useful to have for operating things that usually rely on electricity or to act as backups when you run out.
This list includes all the supplies you’ll likely need when stocking a brand-new office. It’s smart to create an account with an online company that sells office supplies at a decent rate so you can have supplies ordered and brought to your door.
If you are interested in even more business-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels then we have a lot to choose from.
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