Commercial relocation is serious business. The trick is to balance planning, communication, and action in the most efficient way possible so you spend less time moving and can get back to business as usual quickly.
If you’re responsible for preparing an office move, these basic tips should help you get started.
Planning
Having a concrete plan is the best way to help employees transition smoothly through an office relocation. Make lists, study the floor plan of the new space to make sure your stuff will fit, delegate responsibilities, and create a timeline for moving day and the weeks leading up to it.
Communication
If you don’t want to get sidetracked by a million questions, take the time to communicate with your co-workers, superiors, other building tenants, and property management firm frequently so everyone knows what to expect. Open communication throughout the relocation process guarantees that you’ll be ready to turn things over to the moving company on the day of your office move.
Action
As far as packing and preparing items to be moved, make sure everyone in the office knows exactly what they’re expected to do. While sophisticated computer equipment or heavy machinery should be left to the professional movers, employees can certainly pack up their own desks and workspaces, personal items, and files. In fact, some moving companies may ask employees to move all personal items that do not belong to the company. Designate co-workers to help pack supply closets, bookcases, storage cabinets, and shelves. To help avoid confusion on move day, clearly label items that should not be moved. Moving companies can also give demonstrations to departments, just ask and see if this is possible through the movers you’re considering.
It’s possible to carry out a smooth, relatively stress-free office move with some careful planning and plenty of communication.
-Jon Huser
