Moving and Surplus provides outstanding service, shares tips on preparing for a move

As a wide range of projects take place on 51��’s campuses over the summer months, OHIO’s Moving and Surplus department is very busy assisting the University community.

Moving and Surplus provides excellent service throughout the year, but the summer months are especially busy for the three full-time moving professionals and the general manager. The department supports the moving and surplus needs for the Athens and regional campuses, and in fiscal year 2023 the department supported more than 450 requests for moves or event set up.

“Housing and Residence Life is a close campus partner with Moving and Surplus. We schedule several projects a year with them, from small office moves to complete residence hall renovations, where they literally must move every piece of student furniture,” said Duane Perpich, assistant director of Housing Facility Operations. “Although we try and schedule all projects in advance, Moving and Surplus accommodates us when an unforeseen issue comes up and we need there services unexpectedly.”

Moving and Surplus assists with departmental moves, room conversions, freight delivery support, forklift operations, and the sale and disposal of University surplus.

Departments hosting events on campus should contact Moving and Surplus for coordination of tables, chairs, and stage rentals to support event needs. Available inventory includes 5’ round tables, 6’ banquet tables, 3’ high-top/cocktail tables and stages in multiple sizes.

In addition, OHIO’s surplus store is open to the University community and the public Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Building 9 at The Ridges, located at 120 Ridges Circle. The surplus store features a wide variety of items furniture, equipment, electronics, décor, and miscellaneous items. The store also utilizes Gov Deals, a live online auction feature for the sale of specialized equipment, electronics, and vehicles.

“I have witnessed the moving staff interact with students, staff, contractors, and they are always professional and courteous,” Perpich said. “Staci White, the manger of Moving and Surplus, responds immediately and will do whatever she can to meet her customers’ needs. I would recommend 51��’s Moving and Surplus department to anyone.”

Moving and Surplus staff load furniture into a moving truck

Helpful moving tips

Preparing furniture and equipment:

Be sure to provide type of equipment/furniture, dimensions, and estimated weights when submitting service requests
Empty all furniture in advance of any move
Disconnect and prepare all office equipment (wrap cords/wires, box up)

Packing boxes:

If needed, you can obtain packing boxes and tape from Moving and Surplus. Be sure to use the right sizes boxes to support your move
Use packing materials when appropriate to protect fragile items
Put heavier items on the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top
Fill empty spaces in boxes but do not overpack – individual boxes should not exceed 50 pounds

Tagging boxes and furniture:

Clearly mark boxes with a dark colored marker or affix labels to each box/item on both the top and side with name, department, and location in which the items should be moved (building and room number)

Departments needing assistance with moves or surplus pick-ups or organizers hosting events on campus in which table and chair rentals are needed are encouraged to reach out to Moving and Surplus at the contact information below for service support.