Changing business locations can pause your productivity level and some employees might enter a state of confusion. Developing businesses are usually more worried whether the new location is profitable for them or not.
Once you are sure that moving is the right decision, you should start focusing on how to execute this big change efficiently. It’s not just about finding a new place but ensuring that you get everything at the right place at the right time so it doesn’t affect employees or clients in any way.
This article has some useful tips that might help you avoid potential mistakes.
Starts the Planning Part of the Process
Make sure the office dynamic is not disturbed when you are in the planning phase, and only a few employees are involved in the planning team. Give yourself at least three months to create an effective plan that includes:
- Write down the things you wish to relocate and what you want to donate.
- Remove anything that is cluttering the office.
- Securely dispose of any electronics that are no longer in work.
- Advanced planning can help you avoid any last-minute chaos.
Start Packing Early
After you are done with planning, make sure to start the packing process in the background until you are ready to relocate altogether. Any last-minute packing can make you forget essential items. Starting from the beginning gives you enough time to evaluate what’s going in the new location and what you are leaving behind.
Once you start to check off things from your list, put them in separate boxes and label accordingly to stay on the safe side. Pack your documents safely with labeling, some of which include:
- Security cards
- Health record
- Work records
- Employee information forms
- Business reports
- Tax forms and much more
Take Care of Your Utilities
Before you leave your old building, inform your utility company beforehand to avoid piling up bills. After ending your last day in your old office, tell your utility company to turn off the water, gas, cable, and electricity services.
Before moving into the new location, talk with the new utility company in that area. You do not want to move in with a pile of boxes with no electricity or water on your first day.
Set Your Defined Budget
Before you start searching for a location, decide your budget to narrow down your options accordingly. Other than your decision to rent or buy the new office space, make sure to keep aside some money to cover extra costs like lease incidentals that include insurance, maintenance, and utilities.
You might face some unexpected costs like renovations to accommodate your office departments. Another of your real estate needs includes moving costs that may vary depending on your relocation site and conditions. You can successfully create a budget and if you manage to reflect all hidden and potential costs.
Focus on Location Hunting
Firstly decide whether you are buying or leasing your new office. If you run a growing business with uncertain future needs, leasing may be a better option. On the other hand, buying is a better option for an established company that requires renovations now and then.
Besides your budget, there are many things to look for when deciding on a location. Some of which includes,
- Accessibility for your clients and suppliers
- Convenient ways of shipping and receiving
- Public transport and parking options for office workers
- Nearby restaurant and other services
- More space to expand your company
- Opinion of your employees on the new location and see if they need any additions.
Create a Schedule for Packing and Moving
You can work with your employees to decide when you should relocate between two offices. Assign a team to discuss things like moving items, renovations required, setting up electronic devices and internet, marketing new office, and buying new furniture and machines.
It is best to hire professional furniture removals to help with relocation. Put every team member in charge of a separate task so that it is carried out with perfection. Also, focus on building up extra inventory so that your work does not get interrupted once you have relocated to the new office.
Change Your Address before Your Move
It is best to start preparing to change your location address before you make the official move. Mention on your website the new address and make sure it is popped up as a new update so that clients can notice the change immediately.
You can also include a disclaimer on your voicemail about relocation so that clients and suppliers who call you can be notified. Design a new business card with the new address and start to give it out so that people can find you easily once you are done with moving.
Choose a Suitable Time for Relocation
Issues like downtime and low productivity usually result during relocation. You can significantly reduce stress by choosing a time of year that will not affect your sales. Deciding to relocate during summer when tourism is at its peak will leave you worried about losing work.
You can talk out with your removals company on which time of the year will be best depending on what kind of business you run. The main goal should be to reduce downtime as much as possible. If you rush to relocate during busy business days, do it during the weekend or after work hours.
Conclusion
Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and stress-free moving journey. Even if your moving aim is to attract new customers or expand your space, you can lose a lot of productivity and profits without careful planning.
Your primary focus should be to relate your office without stress and financial strain. Make most of your new location to introduce innovative techniques that can help grow your business significantly. Give your employees a chance to start fresh and bring out their competitive sides. Moving creates an avenue for you to refurbish your business, save some money and motivate your staff.
