Guest post by Nichelle
Moving your office is a big job and one that requires a lot of care and preparation to ensure that things go smoothly, from start to finish. You’ll need to bring everything important with you, leaving nothing behind. Whether you use an office removal company or you do the work yourself, use these handy tips to get you from the old office to the new one without worry or concern.
Declutter What You Have
As you begin packing up your office, take time to get rid of items that you no longer want or need. You might consider turning paper files into digital copies so they take up less space. Taking care of decluttering now will save you a lot of time when you arrive at your new office and during the move itself.
Make a Plan
Moving day isn’t the time to start planning what goes and what doesn’t. Once you know you’ll be moving your office, start making plans regarding when items will be moved, who will move them and what you will need and what you plan to throw away, sell, or donate. Having a plan ahead of time makes a big difference in how efficient and speedy the moving process is, so start early.
Create a Budget
It makes sense to have a budget in mind when you are moving your office. If you’re going to use a removal company, you’ll want to get some quotes so you know how much you can expect to spend on the big move. You will also want to budget for things like moving supplies, time off for employees who aren’t helping with the move and other expenses that might come up.
Get Some Help
Moving is a big job so having a team to help you can make the job seem less overwhelming and keeps your timeline in mind. You can always hire professional help, but you might also consider having your employees pitch in, each of them taking the reins on a specific moving task. Make sure your team understands what to expect and what their duties are so that each item on the to do list happens when and how it should.
Consider the Space
Is your new office space larger or smaller than the one you’re currently using? Or perhaps it’s a similar size, but has a different layout. Consider where you’re going to put your office furniture and decor items. If you’re downsizing, you’ll have to decide what items you don’t want to move because you might not have space for them. If you’re upsizing, you’ll have to consider how you’re going to fill your new space, buying items as necessary.
Update Your Location
Do you share your location details on your website, business cards and other promotional materials? You’ll want to update all of those items with your new office address, phone numbers and etc. This ensures that your clients and customers can find you, even after your move is complete.
Carry Out Moving Day
The big day has arrived! On moving day, using the plans you’ve made along the way, execute the move. Get started early so you can be sure to get most of the work done during the day, when it’s easier to see. If you’re hiring a removal company, be sure you’re ready when they arrive. Have your plan written out if that will help you stay on task throughout.
Get Settled In
Now that everything has arrived at your new office, take the time to get settled in. Allow your team to help you unpack and place items where they belong. Hold a quick meeting to brief your employees on where they can find files, paperwork and other important things you need in your place. Label cabinets and drawers, if necessary, to help you and your staff find important items as you get used to using your new office space.
Deciding to move your office can be both stressful and exciting. It’s a new chapter, but it’s definitely quite a bit of work. Having a plan and hiring some help are your two best tips when it comes to getting from the old space to the new one without worry and hassle.
