As your business grows, there may come a time when your current office space is no longer adequate for your company needs and the best solution is to move. Relocating an office is a tedious process and it can be costly as well. If you haven’t done the appropriate planning, your business could suffer extensive downtime that could be detrimental to your company’s operations and future.
So how does a company remain productive during an office move? Proper planning is critical.
1. Plan the Move Well in Advance
You’ll need to get your proverbial ducks in a row well ahead of moving day if you want a seamless transition from one office to another. Don’t leave any aspect of your move to chance. A few things you will want to consider:
• Timing – If your business is in its busiest season, Office Moving In Edmonton you may want to consider how occupied your employees already are. Designate a team for the move that will put aside some day-to-day tasks to focus on planning the move. This team can consist of just one person or as many as you need, but make sure someone is devoted to creating a plan and overseeing it from conception to completion. Your local office mover can be your go-to resource to help ensure everything runs smoothly on moving day.
• Growth – Where will your company be in two years? Five years? Make sure you plan out the new space to accommodate growth.
• Utilities – You’ll need to not only setup electricity, Internet service, and other essentials, but also make sure your wireless networks or LAN are setup before moving day.
2. Use the Opportunity to Upgrade
If your office is using outdated equipment, consider using your office move as an excuse to upgrade. Donate your old technology and office furniture to charity or sell it to businesses in need. Then purchase new equipment that can be delivered to the new location on the same day you move the remaining office items. This will not only save you on the costs associated with moving your office equipment, but also reduce some of the hassle. While you’re at it, examine your company software and have it updated before business resumes at the new office.
3. Plan for Downtime
Even well planned moves are bound to encounter a hiccup or two during the process. Plan ahead for downtime and notify clients, associates, and business partners well in advance. By letting them know downtime may occur you’re less likely to frustrate existing customers and potentially lose business.
4. Use Moving Checklists
Creating a series of checklists can make the process of moving your office a little easier. List each task that needs to be completed and include any underlying tasks that lead up to them. Designate individuals who are responsible for completing those tasks and monitor their progress.
5. Hire the Right Office Mover
Office moves are laborious and companies who think they can do it on their own often encounter more downtime and increased costs. Rather than tackle an office move solo, hire a professional office mover to handle the relocation for you. The right office movers can take the hassle out of office relocation, but only if you hire a reputable company. Look for office movers who:
• Have the proper licensing and insurance
• Use permanent employees who are screened, well-trained, and free of criminal backgrounds
• Offer in-person estimates
• Are experienced in office moves and can customize their services to meet your company’s specific needs
If your office move is coming up, hire an office mover with the skills, resources, and expertise needed to get the job done correctly. The right office mover can be the difference between a hassle-free, cost-effective move and an expensive disaster.
