Looking for a way to outfit your new office on a budget? Consider buying used furniture (or pre-loved as we call it in the industry) to furnish your area. Of course, you're going to save a great deal of money going this route, but you're also going to reduce waste and be a forerunner in the sustainable practices arena. So, follow these tips to make your way through the office furniture jungle. 

• Less Money: Used office furniture is almost always significantly cheaper than buying new counterparts, giving you more room in your budget for other essentials. 

• Environmentally Friendly: By choosing pre-owned furniture, you're helping reduce the demand for new items and cut back on the amount of waste in landfills. 

• Quality: Increase the quality of your furniture by getting high-end pieces at a fraction of the price. These pieces are built to withstand wear and tear, lasting you longer than similarly priced newer items. 

• Unique: You don't have to go with the flow! Pick out unique or vintage items to put some character into your office environment. 

It can be fun to jump in and start shopping, but before buying used office furniture, make a list of all the pieces you foresee yourself needing and the quantities of each. Think about factors such as: 

• How many employees will you have? 

• What type of work is being done? 

• What are the size constraints of your office space? 

• What is your budget? 

Now the question becomes, who should you buy from? Reputable sellers who specialize in used office furniture are your best bet. They often obtain matching lots of furniture that can be purchased for one price. You may want to look into office furniture liquidators or keep your eyes out for corporate downsizing sales. Read all reviews of the business you choose, but don't let one bad review turn you off on a company. 

Yes, shopping online is easy to do and an option 24 hours a day. But, whenever possible, inspect the furniture in person before handing over the credit card. You want to look for signs of wear and tear and any defects. Also check for: 

- Sturdy construction- Functioning drawers and locks- Smooth-rolling casters on chairs- No stains, tears, or odors

If you do decide to go with an online retailer, look for detailed pictures and complete descriptions of the furniture's condition. Also, know all the details of the return policy. 

You may be thinking that any old office chair will do, but it doesn't hurt to look into the ergonomically designed pieces to help encourage comfort and increase productivity. For example, consider: 

- Adjustable chair heights and armrests- Desks with appropriate heights for typing and writing- Furniture that supports good posture

Shop around to see if you're getting a fair deal. While it's easy to jump at a low price, remember that quality is important, too. Think about: 

- The age and condition of the furniture- The brand and original retail price- Any additional costs like delivery or assembly

By following these tips and taking the time to research and evaluate your options, you can find high-quality used office furniture that meets your needs and budget. Not only will you save money, but you'll also be making an environmentally conscious choice that benefits your business and the planet.