Business relocation is particularly challenging. However, comprehensive planning, meticulous organization, and good leadership can make the process more efficient. Here are the most significant business relocation challenges and how to overcome them.
Loss of Productivity
Packing and unpacking take time, even for businesses with a small staff and very little equipment. So, if possible, plan the relocation for a three-day weekend. While that may add a few dollars to the moving company expense, you’ll likely recoup that with increased productivity.
Another option is to allow employees to work remotely while the shift is taking place. Ensure that you’ve taken steps to protect your data security beforehand.
Budgeting
Get quotes from several professional movers with experience with moving companies similar to yours. Check reviews and references, as well. Better to pay more and have a smooth move than pay too little for the movers and be slow getting back to work. Allow some flexibility in your budget for hidden costs.
Old Vs. New
Decide early in the process whether you want to keep your current office equipment and furniture or completely redo the work area. Both options have pros and cons. A complete redo costs money; however, it indicates a new start. Keeping equipment and furniture from the old space creates a more significant hassle, but it enables you to recreate the same office look in your new place. Decide the right balance for you.
Communication
You want to keep anxiety down during the move. You also want to ensure you take your best talent and customers with you.
Communicate with your employees throughout the process. Find opportunities to provide feedback on what they’d like in the new office and work area.
Also, provide employees with information about amenities near the new office, such as banks, gyms, restaurants, and day-care centers. Organize discounts with these companies for the first weeks after your move.
If the move is long distance, determine which employees you want to offer relocation packages to and meet with them. Also, make arrangements to help those not relocating find other jobs.
Announce the move to your customers and vendors through multiple mediums, including your website, social media, press releases, personal letters, and phone calls. Stress how the move will help you provide better customer service and products. Then, once the relocation is complete, plan an open house for your customers and vendors.
Space Planning
Moving to a new office presents an opportunity to plan your space better. For example, determining where electrical outlets and telephone connections are can save you some time.
Then, working with your IT and facilities staff, create a detailed blueprint of the new space. You may have to add outlets or other technical features.
If the workspace changes significantly, such as from cubicles to open spaces, be sure to communicate with employees early so they can adjust.
Finding the Right Moving Partner
Take the time to choose the right moving partner. We’ve moved companies in many industries. Contact us for a quote today.