Is there an actual warehouse that I can visit to look at the City’s furniture and equipment?

No, the Virtual Warehouse is a web-based program to facilitate the reuse of City owned office furniture, electronics, equipment, and supplies. It is most often compared to the “free” section of Craigslist for City Departments.

What if I cannot find an item I need for my department?

Check the “Available Items List” often for updated items that are added to the Virtual Warehouse. You can also email the VW Associate with a “wish list”, detailing the item(s) and quantity you would need. If you must buy new office supplies or items, please explore the SF Approved List for healthier, green options.

Who can request items from the Virtual Warehouse?

San Francisco City Departments, non-profit organizations, and schools who will use City surplus materials for the public good.

How long do I need to post my items on the Virtual Warehouse?

It is Virtual Warehouse policy to have items posted for a minimum of 30 days. Contact the VW Associate as soon as you know that you will no longer need an item. The more time the VW Associate has to work with you and post your items, the more likely the items can be redistributed to another City department or donated to a non-profit organization in a timely, cost-effective manner.

What kind of description are you looking for in the Virtual Warehouse Turn-In Form?

The more details the better! When there is a clear description, it helps a potential user understand what kind of item best fits their needs. The Turn-In Form requires a description such as measurements, make, model, color, type of material, etc. 

What do I do after I submit a Virtual Warehouse Turn-In Form?

We ask City Departments to keep their surplus items at their location and keep track of where it is stored. Your item will be posted on the “Available Items List.” If the item is broken or in questionable condition the VW Associate will give you further instructions on how to recycle or properly dispose of it. The goal is to have as many City surplus items reused as possible. The VW Associate will also let you know when a requestor is interested in inspecting your items or ready to do a pick up. Please make sure you are there to monitor the removal of your items.

What do I do with broken City furniture and computer equipment?

Turn it into the Virtual Warehouse. This program accepts working items, as well as broken furniture, items with missing parts, and obsolete computer equipment. Once the VW Associate receives your form, further instructions will be given to you for proper recycling or disposal methods. Discarding electronic or any hazardous items in the trash is illegal.

If my department does not own a truck how else can I access a vehicle to pick up items?

If you do not have a vehicle, you can borrow one from Central Shops. The contact person is Dave Del Grande at (415)550-4603. 

Do I need a Virtual Warehouse Authorized Official signature?

The new format does not require a Virtual Warehouse Authorized Official signature. It does however require that you get verbal approval from the the appropriate official in your department before you turn in items. It is the responsibility of the department to responsibly manage unwanted City owned surplus and follow the Surplus Disposal Ordinance.  Neglect to do so, may result in termination.  The form does require that you provide the name and contact information of your supervisor, manager, or Department Head. Please read over the “User Agreement” before submitting any forms.