Ten Things Your Business Should Consider When Moving Wednesday Aug 10, 2016

Moving an office is fraught with details. As someone once noted, oaks grow from little acorns. So before the little things become big problems, here are ten things to consider when you think about moving your office.  It’s important to have a handle on these questions.

1. Space. It’s not only the final frontier, it’s also the crucial component for a functioning, efficient office. Consider not only the amount of space, but how it should be configured.

2. Info Systems. An office move invariably affects IT in some way. How will the move affect the functioning of the network? Do you have a plan to avoid downtime? To keep users connected and productive?

3. Furnishings. Will your existing furnishings be adequate, or will you need to purchase new ones? If you are replacing furniture, what do you want to do with old or outdated items?

4. Timing.  A host of factors affect a move schedule. Will some employees be absent during the move, on vacation or business trips? Does the building allow moving in or out only at certain times? Check with the facilities manager to make sure you know all the rules.

5. Telephone. Will you be moving your existing phone system or installing a new one? Will you be reusing phones or getting rid of them?  Do you need to discard and recycle components?

6. Parking. It may seem obvious, but what about parking? Does the new location have sufficient spaces for employees? Are they conveniently located?

7. What Goes. Before the office mover walks through to assess the scope of work, know which things are to be moved and which things are not. Who is responsible for disconnecting electronics, such as computers and copy machines? Are there special service requirements — or can the mover do it?

8. The Right People. Come moving day, it’s good to have a company decision-maker and a building manager on hand to answer questions. It’s also advisable to keep the number of employees on site to a minimum.  

9. Know Your Budget.  Before you award the work, get competitive bids. Two or three is ideal. Ask about each mover’s experience and what to expect in the move. You can get a good feel for who offers the right fit.

10. Purge. Make a plan and start purging files and other unnecessary items. The less you have to move, the easier and more cost effective your move will be.

Those are the ten things to consider for your business relocation. If your business move happens to be to another region or across the country, you’ll also need to consider relocating employees and the availability of housing, school systems, day care, taxes, local ordinances, and the availability of skilled workers. The good news is, our company has experience in all these areas and is ready to help. Just ask.

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