Moving into a new office can be an exiting time. Maybe this means more workspace, new office furniture, or a strategic location that will continue to catapult the business forward.
There’s a lot to look forward to, but there’s also a lot to accomplish before this move is made possible. You probably know this all too well!
What you might not know is how to get started. So, let’s get to that. Here are six steps you can take to prepare for your office relocation.
Step One: Set Your Budget.
Setting a clear budget is a great first step. This puts everything into perspective including what you will need for your move, how long the move will take, and a breakdown of relocation costs.
There’s no single way to create a moving budget. You can make one yourself using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, or you can use one of the many office moving budget tools that are available online.
Regardless of how you decide to go about it, there are some basics that your budget must include. These are:
Moving Company Expenses
Employee Moving Expenses
New Office Expenses
Invoicing Procedure
Step Two: Research Leases.
If you don’t have your new office space already, it’s important that you complete this step as soon as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months ahead of your move. Finding the ideal space can take time, and there might be improvements you will want to make ahead of the move. You also need time to get everything setup including phone line installation, internet connection, and office furniture arrangement.
Step Three: Determine Office Needs.
Do you plan to take all your old office furniture and equipment with you? If not, create a moving inventory. List everything you will take, everything you will leave behind, and then determine your remaining needs. Just make sure that you’re staying within your budget for new office expenses.
Step Four: Create a Workflow Strategy.
An effective workflow strategy will help you to reduce downtime during your relocation so you can stay on-task. Try to be flexible where you can and get everyone on board to help create a plan that works well for everyone. For example, all managers might consider critical deadlines, customer relations, and employee wellbeing.
Step Five: Announce Your Move.
It’s natural for employees to feel apprehensive about the move at first, so the more information you can provide the easier the transition will be. Here are some suggestions for boosting employee morale before a big office move:
Provide a Positive Reason for the Relocation
Present New Office Features and Workflow Benefits
Discuss the New Office Name and Address
Give a Moving Timeline
Create Clear Employee Expectations
Establish a Route of Communication for Move Related Questions
Step Six: Hire Commercial Movers.
Unless you want to risk a costly and hazardous DIY move, you will want to hire commercial movers as soon as possible. This makes budgeting easier and your movers of choice are more likely to be available. Just make sure you choose a company that offers:
Office Moving Experience
Upfront Cost Estimates
Full-Service Moving
Specialized Moving
If you need office movers that provide quality and affordable relocation service nationwide, contact Relocation and moving Services today for a free, no-obligation moving cost estimate!