Office Supplies Checklist For Startups

When it comes to starting a new business, the majority of your time and focus will be taken up by developing the product or service you are offering and getting the financial side of things in order. But while these aspects of enterprise are important, you must also ensure your office space is up to scratch.

This can be quite exciting, as you will have a fair amount of creative licence to design a pleasant yet productive environment. However, there are a few things you might forget about too, which will only disrupt the working day when you are up and running.

To prevent this from happening, here is an office supplies checklist for start-ups, which includes everything from ink cartridges to coffee.

Furniture

Desks – It might not be suited to your type of business, but a lot can be said for choosing a standing desk
Chairs – Don’t cut corners with cheap chairs as your back will suffer for it
Shelving – Take advantage of empty walls to maximise storage space
Filing cabinet – Even though we are going increasingly paperless, you will still need somewhere to file important documentation
Plants – Proven to reduce tension, depression, anger, and fatigue
Clock – To keep on schedule and finish the day on time
Kettle – Make sure it is PAT tested for health and safety
Mugs – Bring your favourite mug from home to brighten up the office
Tea, coffee, and biscuits – To get you and your staff through the day

Stationery

Paper – Buy in bulk if you will be using lots of it as buying in volume is often cheapest
Pens – Maybe buy some branded pens to impress customers and clients?
Notepads – So you never let a good idea get away
Stapler – To ensure all that paperwork remains organised
Paperclips – They’re bound to come in handy
Folders – For your filing cabinet
Mailing supplies – Such as envelopes (closed and window types, letter size and manila), stamps, packaging, labels, etc.
Miscellaneous – Things like tape, highlighters, scissors, ruler etc.

Technology

Computer/laptop – Remember to install updates to mitigate against the threat of cyber crime
Mobile phone – It can be helpful to have a dedicated business phone
Wireless router – To ensure you are always connected to the internet across all devices
Hard drive/cloud backup – It is essential you regularly back-up your data in case of failure or theft
Printer/copier/scanner – Don’t skimp on quality otherwise you’ll be buying another sooner rather than later
Ink cartridges and toner – There is nothing worse than running out at a crucial moment
Telephone – Several customers will still want to get in contact via landline, not just mobile and online
Shredder – Thieves often target small businesses to obtain sensitive or confidential information

This checklist of supplies only scratches the surface of what you might need when setting up a new business. What’s more, the size and sector of your enterprise will have a bearing on what is required. However, these items should cover the essential basics, so good luck with your business!