Growth or changes to a business can often lead to the need for a completely new business location, but moving a business is unlike moving a household, it is much more challenging. Planning is crucial and making sure everything on your list is complete is really important. Use this quick checklist as a guide to move your business effortlessly.
Figure out a Time Frame and Schedule
Your time frame ought to be the very first thing you do. Set the date when all stuff must be out of the office space, which is your final move out date.
You will definitely require a couple of days to really move out. Work in reverse from your move out date and make a listing of all the stuff you have to do before the trucks shows up. You can refer to this move timeline checklist; while it may be for houses, you can tweak it to your own office setting.
Delegate Tasks and Set up a Move Committee if necessary
It’s advisable that you get staff involved in the move at the beginning. A move committee will not only make it easier to arrange and plan the move but additionally help ease the transition for the staff members as well. Get the committee review all the tasks and delegate roles. As the move goes forward, you will most likely need to include tasks to the list – there’s just a lot to do all yourself.
Set up an Inner and Outside Communications Plan
An inner communications plan will make sure employees are kept informed of the moving plans while an external plan will keep your customers and suppliers updated on your business activities throughout the move so you can keep your business operating at peak performance during the transition period.
Hire Movers
Just like any move, getting good movers takes time and ought to be one of the primary tasks on your list. Get a staff member create a listing of at least 5 moving companies and then make sure you check them out carefully prior to hiring. Figure out budget, get quotes, and compare services across moving companies to choose which one to hire. Movers like the TR Group are certified in handling heavy vehicles, so that should be one of your considerations, too. A certified mover should be your number one criteria to ensure that your equipment is safe during the move.
Hire Professional Packers
If your moving funds can take care of hiring professional packers, do it. This would save you and your staff members packing up areas they are use to. It a smart idea to request that your staff members pack their desks or offices as it will provides a chance for staff to tidy up their spaces and do away with stuff they don’t need to move.
Make a New Office Plan and Layout
This is where your move committee is going to be really helpful. When you have to work out where almost everything and everyone goes, it will require a great deal of time and effort. Ensure you know where every piece of furniture is going to be positioned and every staff is going to sit. The more detailed the plan, the better.
Talk to Your Current Vendors
Relocating a business could imply changing service providers. Look at your contracts then simply determine if you are going to stay with your present vendors or if you are going to consider switching. You will have to figure out what the new space will need with regards to telephone lines and network infrastructure. Speak with your new landlord and vendors to make sure that you know what the new space requires so there is absolutely no gap in service.
If you are leasing any equipment, make contact with the dealer to inform them of the move and how best to get their equipment to the new place.
Keep Employees Updated and Informed
A move is not an easy thing for staff members. It could mean a general change in how they daily commute. If you’re relocating to a smaller space, then staff members have to know how offices are going to be allocated and what their new space will be like. Staff members ought to be informed at every step in the process. It is advisable to keep a moving schedule where staff members can see how things are moving and what is expected of them.