Buying used office desks is one of the smartest ways to furnish a workspace without compromising on quality or breaking the budget. Pre-owned desks offer significant savings, are immediately available, and support environmentally responsible purchasing. For over 25 years, The Office Chair Man has been helping UK businesses of all sizes find the perfect office furniture with sustainability, comfort and affordability in mind.
Used office desks, when chosen carefully, can rival or even surpass new desks in durability and style. However, to make a sound investment, it’s essential to know what to look for and what questions to ask. Whether you’re setting up a small home office or refitting an entire open-plan space, this guide will walk you through the crucial checks to make before buying.
From structural soundness and ergonomic features to matching your existing office design, this article will cover every angle. We’ll also include a real-world look at how we support customers through our desk selection, delivery, and aftercare services. Our aim is to help you make a smart, informed decision that meets your needs and supports the circular economy.
Cosmetic scuffs on a used desk?
No problem. Wax sticks, furniture polish, or a replacement panel can make it good as new.
Minor wear shouldn’t stop a great deal.
Before browsing desks, it’s important to assess the specific needs of your workspace.
Start by mapping out how many workstations you need and how they will be arranged. A collaborative team might benefit from bench desks or shared workstations, while individual roles might be better suited to separate desks with storage.
Consider the following types:
Think ahead. Buying matching modular desks now can make it easier to scale later without a redesign. Used desks don’t always come in bulk, so choose styles that will be easy to source again if you expand.
Some desks are better suited for specific roles:
Taking time to assess these needs before purchase will ensure better comfort, efficiency and space usage.
Condition is everything when buying used furniture. A thorough inspection – either in person or via clear images and descriptions – is essential.
Look for sturdy materials such as:
Desks from premium brands tend to last longer and are often designed for heavy daily use.
Ensure the desk:
Check drawer runners and cable grommets too. A solid desk should feel stable under pressure and show no sign of collapsing.
Cosmetic wear is expected, but be wary of deep scratches, water damage or bubbling laminate. These can worsen over time and may affect usability.
Minor scuffs can usually be resolved with:
At The Office Chair Man, we only source desks that meet our internal quality checklist – which includes checking for both function and appearance.
For sit-stand desks:
We fully test all adjustable desks before resale and provide full descriptions.
A great desk should promote productivity and comfort. Ergonomic design is a key part of modern office planning.
The average desk height is 73-75cm. Make sure there’s enough clearance under the desk for comfortable leg movement and storage.
Height-adjustable desks allow users to alternate between sitting and standing, which can improve posture and energy levels.
Benefits include:
We offer a wide range of refurbished sit-stand desks, all of which are tested for performance and reliability.
Consider how the desk will support the user:
A functional desk supports productivity and reduces workplace stress. Look for adjustable feet, rounded corners, and ample worktop depth.
Your office furniture reflects your brand. Mismatched desks or outdated designs can impact first impressions.
Try to source desks that match in:
When you buy from The Office Chair Man, we help you find multiple matching desks for cohesive layouts.
Light-coloured desks can make a small space feel bigger, while darker desks often suit executive or private offices.
Wave desks and curved panels create a more contemporary feel, which may suit creative agencies and media firms.
Buying used doesn’t mean compromising on looks. Our showroom and listings include photos from multiple angles to help visualise the fit.
Not all used furniture suppliers are the same. Choosing a reputable, experienced supplier ensures better outcomes.
We inspect, clean and prepare every desk before listing it online or offering it in our showroom. We also provide bulk deals and ongoing support for larger office fit-outs.
We offer:
Customer service doesn’t stop at checkout. Our team is here to help with layout planning, spare parts, and future furniture needs.
Buying second-hand desks is an excellent way to reduce waste and support sustainability.
By choosing pre-owned, you help reduce:
The Office Chair Man is committed to environmentally conscious practices:
Investing in used desks is a responsible choice for both your business and the planet.
All office furniture should comply with UK health and safety regulations.
The Office Chair Man ensures all used desks are checked and refurbished to meet workplace safety standards.
As an employer, it’s your responsibility to provide safe and suitable workstations for employees.
Plan ahead for how your desks will arrive and be set up.
We offer nationwide delivery with careful handling to prevent transit damage.
Our professional team can install desks on-site, saving you time and hassle. This is especially useful for bench desks or multi-desk configurations.
We provide:
Buying used doesn’t mean going it alone. We’re here for every stage of your office fit-out.
A London-based design agency recently approached us to refit their studio with sustainable, stylish office furniture.
Our clients appreciate the personal approach and reliability we bring to every order.
Used office desks offer unbeatable value when you know what to look for. From understanding workspace needs to evaluating quality, ergonomics and aesthetics, each step plays a part in creating a successful and sustainable workspace.
As specialists in refurbished office furniture, The Office Chair Man offers more than just desks – we offer guidance, support and quality assurance every step of the way.
By buying used, you’re not just saving money; you’re also making a positive environmental impact and supporting the circular economy.
Explore our full range of used office desks today, and get in touch for help finding the perfect fit for your space.
The Office Chairman where we combine over 25 years of experience in supplying only the highest quality recycled office furniture and used office chairs. Providing remarkable customer service at exceptional value for your money.
68 St Johns Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG4 5AL
Combining 25 years of experience in supplying only the highest quality used office furniture and used office chairs. Providing customer service levels at exceptional value for your money.
