The process of moving offices can be daunting for any size company. That’s why a moving office checklist comes in handy to ensure the move goes smoothly – and you don’t forget anything when changing sites.
Whether you’re joining one of the many other companies using a storage unit for their business base or just want to avoid any unnecessary stress during the big move, this complete office checklist will provide a comprehensive outline for a successful and no-fuss office relocation.
Initial Preparation
1. Set Your Budget
Once you’ve decided to make your move, you’ll need to set an initial moving budget. This will help prevent any overspending when relocating your office site.
2. Book Removal Company
Book your moving vendors 3–4 months before moving day, so you can make sure there are enough hands to help you pack – and unpack. You can also reach out to self-storage companies to see if they have any available units to store stock during the move.
3. Plan Your New Office Space
Measure your new office space using a detailed floor plan to start thinking about your new office layout. This also means you can go into your new premises with a general idea of where you want everything.
4. Organise Utilities
Book a date for the new IT systems to be installed, as well as access to Wi-Fi, so you can quickly resume business as usual after the move. You also need to look into your new water and electricity set-up, as well as redirect any office post to your new address.
5. Create An Inventory
Note down all your existing office furniture that’s coming with you, and decide on packing procedures and layout to make sure nothing gets damaged in the move. 1st Access can supply the right packaging to minimise the chance of breakage at this step.
6. Order New Furniture
Reach out to furniture companies for any new furniture and stationery, so it’s waiting for you when moving day comes.
7. Sign Paperwork
Add your signature to any official paperwork to set up your new business base officially. You should also finalise any access codes and security details for the new site.
8. Book Permits
Reserve parking space permits and local licences for moving day, so you can unload everything close to the new site. You might also need to book elevators ahead of time.
9. Arrange For Cleaning
Liaise with cleaning services at your current office, so everything is left how you found it, and arrange for the new premises to be thoroughly cleaned ahead of move-in.
10. Loop In The Movers
Send your movers a detailed floor plan of the new premises, or arrange to meet them at the new site so moving in furniture goes off without a hitch.
11. Make a Moving Day Plan
Make a detailed plan for moving day and send it to all your staff members. This should include a list of emergency contacts for anyone involved in relocating the office, including building management and elevator maintenance.
Moving Day
1. Double-Check Inventory
Work through the office inventory and proposed office plan to ensure everything made it across – and everything is in the right place now.
2. Keep Emergency Numbers
Don’t throw away any emergency numbers used in the move, especially in the first few weeks of settling into your new base.
3. Organise an Office-Warming
Fully cement the move by setting up a planning committee to organise an office-warming party.
If you’re looking to move offices, and would benefit from a self-storage unit, why not get a quote for our storage units in Peterborough?