If you’re preparing for an office move, there are steps you can take to reduce stress and ensure your relocation is as seamless as possible. Although moving can be disruptive for businesses, it is possible to avoid obstacles and keep stress levels to a minimum if you plan carefully. Here are 5 things to check off your to-do list if you’re relocating in the coming weeks.
1. Figure out what kind of move you’re making
If you’re moving to a new office, the first thing to do is create a plan based on the best way to move. Are you going to undertake the entire process in one go, or are you thinking about a phased move? Consider the type of business you run, the size of the team and the nature of the work you do day in, day out. Would moving in one fail swoop benefit you, or would a gradual relocation enable you to reduce downtime? Weigh up the pros and cons and convert your thoughts and ideas into an itinerary.
2. Start packing as soon as possible
Packing up an office is no mean feat, so getting organised early is always advantageous. Even if you have a removals firm taking care of packing for you, you can make the task easier by colour coding boxes and crates according to the department they belong to, and clearly marking their intended location in the new premises. If you decide to take care of packing yourself, encourage others to help you out, and start putting things away as soon as possible. If you know you have equipment you’re not going to need before you move, for example, this can be packed away in advance.
3. Book a removal company
If you’re relocating from one office to another, it’s highly likely that you’ve got a lot of stuff to move. Look for removals firms that specialise in office relocation, and get some quotes before you make a decision. Start searching as soon as you have a date confirmed. It’s useful to read reviews and testimonials and to check terms and conditions and insurance policies.
4. Communicate with staff and clients
Moving can be an upheaval, and communication is critical. Every member of staff should be aware of when you’re moving, and what that means for them on the day of the move. Keep your employees updated and let them know plans. It’s also important to let your clients know that you’re moving and to provide new contact details.
5. Make a plan for your new office
Once you’ve moved, you want the transition to your new office to be as seamless as possible. Use floor plans and images to map out your new office fit out so that you know where everything is going and where everyone is sitting, and set aside time for unpacking and setting up IT systems and equipment. If you haven’t distributed keys or passes in advance, make sure somebody is there to let members of staff in on the first day.
Moving offices can be time-consuming and stressful, but it doesn’t have to be this way. If you plan in advance, and you work out exactly what is going to happen at each stage of the move, you should find that the process is a lot smoother and that your employees are able to switch from one office to another with minimal hassle.
