Moving a company is not as simple as changing the address on your business cards- if only! In fact, the process behind a commercial move is often lengthy, time consuming and fraught with difficulties. You might have thought that finding new premises is the easy part, when in fact the hard work really begins after you sign on the dotted line. Luckily, we have prepared a few tips to help with your business move.
Assess your needs
The first step to take when planning a commercial move is to work with your management team to create a budget. Ensure this is completed at least six months before you are actually due to move to avoid running out of time at a crucial part, you can learn more here.
If you have chosen an office which is not fully serviced, it will be your responsibility as a business to source everything for your new premises. This will include any refitting work that needs to be done, so put aside part of the budget for painters, electricians, (Read More…) and carpet fitters.
It is also necessary to decide which office assets will be moved. Anything you do not want to take with you can be sold, recycled or disposed of responsible. At this stage you can start researching any new items that you wish to invest in. You must also start researching on the different moving companies that can handle the job without much hassle. You can try Sky Van Lines to get the best out of your moving experience. They work on budget and are extremely cautious with your belongings. Make sure as well that the movers you are going to hire have already secured necessary documents and Oversize permits.
Create an office plan
Your office plan should be formed with at least four months to spare and circulated around your organisation. Confirm with all the relevant departments how many employees will be moving to the new office, and where they will be located in the building.
As part of your office plan, remember to research and choose suppliers for waste collection, washroom services and security (unless these services are already supplied by the landlord).
Organising the move
With around two months to go, you should put together a packing strategy. Companies of every size should think seriously about using a professional local movers to help with the moving process. Not only will this save you inordinate amounts of time, but you can also benefit from their expertise. The British Association of Removers is a good place to start when looking for a quote for this service.
At the same time, choose a crate hire company to provide you with removal crates, moving boxes and handling equipment.
Communicate with your staff
Throughout the whole process it is essential to keep all members of your team updated on a regular basis, but as you get closer to D-day you should hold a specific meeting to let them know their responsibilities. It might be worth putting together a packing guide for everyone to follow when it comes to packing up their desk and belongings. Don’t forget to provide each staff member with their own dedicated crate or moving boxes, packing materials and labels.
Set deadlines for every department so that they know exactly what time frame they are working towards. This way, you will not have any last minute panic when people fail to pack in time.
Move in stages
Rather than rushing and try to complete the move in as little time as possible, take it slowly to help everything go smoothly. Your removals company will be able to advise you on timescales, but remember it is better to take longer and get it right than risk making errors.
Good luck!
Chloe is a writer and when she isn’t writing, she can be found pursuing her other true passion- salsa dancing.
