When outfitting an office space, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is whether to invest in new cubicles or go with pre-owned. At first glance, new may seem like the obvious choice—fresh, customizable, flawless. But don’t overlook the incredible value that pre-owned cubicles can offer.

So, which is better? The real answer: It depends on your priorities.
Let's break down the pros and cons of each so you can make the best choice for your business.

The Benefits of New Cubicles

1. Full Customization

When you order new, you’re in the driver’s seat. You choose:

• Size and layout
  
  
• Fabric and panel colors
  
  
• Storage configurations
  
  
• Worksurface shapes
  
  

If you have a very specific aesthetic or branding requirement, new cubicles give you total creative freedom.

2. Manufacturer Warranty

New office furniture typically comes with a robust warranty—often 5 to 10 years—covering defects, parts, and repairs. That peace of mind can be worth the extra investment, especially for larger companies.

3. Long-Term Durability

Since you're the first and only owner, you know the furniture hasn’t been subjected to years of wear and tear. You can expect maximum longevity with minimal maintenance early on.

The Advantages of Pre-Owned Cubicles

1. Massive Cost Savings

The biggest selling point? Savings up to 70% compared to new.
For startups, growing companies, and budget-conscious businesses, this can mean the difference between a small operation and a fully functional, professional-looking office.

2. Faster Lead Times

Pre-owned cubicles are often in stock and ready to ship.
If you need to set up an office quickly—say for a project, a temporary team, or a fast expansion—pre-owned options can have you up and running in a fraction of the time it takes to order new.

3. Sustainability

Buying pre-owned is a green choice.
You're keeping high-quality furniture out of landfills and reducing the environmental footprint associated with manufacturing new materials. If your business values eco-friendliness, this is a big plus.

4. High Quality at a Lower Price

Reputable sellers refurbish and clean pre-owned cubicles to look nearly new. In fact, many top-tier brands like Herman Miller, Steelcase, and Haworth are built so well that even after years of use, they outperform cheaper new options.

Things to Watch Out For

Pre-Owned Cubicles

• Condition can vary widely. Always inspect before buying or work with a trusted dealer who certifies their pre-owned inventory.
  
  

• Limited customization—you're working with what’s available in terms of size, color, and configuration.
  
  

• Shorter warranties—or sometimes none at all (although some resellers offer a limited warranty).
  
  

New Cubicles

• Higher costs, including for delivery and installation.
  
  

• Longer lead times—it can take 4 to 12 weeks to receive customized new cubicles.
  
  

• Depreciation—like a new car, new cubicles lose value the moment they’re installed.
  
  

Which Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide based on your situation:

Pro Tip: Some businesses choose a hybrid approach—buying pre-owned cubicles for most staff areas and investing in a few new pieces for executive offices or client-facing spaces.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between pre-owned and new cubicles isn’t just about cost—it’s about aligning your office furniture strategy with your business goals.
If you have the budget, time, and need for complete customization, new cubicles may be the better route. But if you're looking for value, speed, and sustainability, pre-owned cubicles can offer an unbeatable advantage.

Either way, working with a trusted office furniture provider ensures you get the best bang for your buck.

Ready to design your workspace?
Whether you want new, pre-owned, or a mix of both, we’re here to help you create an office that looks great, works hard, and fits your budget.