There are a lot of good reasons to contract out the delivery and installation of office furniture. For starters, it means you don’t have to do it. This is not to be underestimated when you’re planning a move or massive redecoration project. But ultimately, the best reason to hire an office furniture installation company is that they know what they’re doing. Experienced pros are always better at heading off disasters and maximizing opportunities. That said, you’ll want to make sure you really are dealing with professionals. Here’s how.
1. Ask for References
There’s no better way to predict the future than to examine the past. Reputable office furniture installation companies will jump at the chance to provide you with references, because they know that their past clients’ recommendations seals the deal with new clients. (For completely random example, see our customer testimonials page.) Don’t be afraid to ask for names and numbers of folks who will speak to the experience of working with the company.
2. Find Out If They Have a Good Online Reputation
Once you’ve spoken with the folks the company recommends, go a bit farther afield to see what the internet has to say about their services. Look at local review sites like Yelp to see how previous clients rate the company. One small caveat: if the majority of the reviews are either very positive or extremely negative, take them with a grain of salt. It’s relatively easy to skew rate-and-review sites, either by having friends of the company provide (fake) glowing references, or by posting multiple takedowns under assumed names.
3. Ask for Prices, and Compare Them
How much does delivery cost, if anything? Some office furniture installation companies offer free delivery, while others will provide service for a flat fee or an hourly rate. If you do go with an hourly rate, find out how long the job is expected to take, and compare the total against a few vendors before making your decision.
4. Find Out What’s Included
In addition to determining who pays for delivery and installation charges, find out if the company offers any extras like stain-guarding treatments or extra replacement parts. Find out how long the warrantee is, and it what it includes.
5. Ask About Care and Maintenance
Even if the office furniture installation company covers some care and maintenance, you’ll want to find out what you need to do day-to-day to keep your furniture looking as good as it did when it was first installed. Get specific instructions on cleaning products and techniques, and you won’t wind up with stained or grimy furniture down the road.
