Expansion is exciting. Whether you’re a startup, small business or large company, there’s no beating the rush that comes with business growth. Part of this growth includes relocating your office to one that can accommodate a growing workforce and greater resources. And whilst this too is exciting – it can also create unnecessary downtime for your business if not done properly. You don’t want that to happen and we don’t want that to happen which is why we’ve listed all the office relocation mistakes you should avoid to ensure a smooth sailing growth period.
Failing to find the right move management company
Office relocation mistake number one is trying to do it alone. Startups and small businesses, in particular, are likely to try and make the move themselves but believe us, this isn’t always the best route. Relocating is time-consuming, and as a business owner, you have limited time. Can you see the issue? Managing a move can be both detrimental to workflow and production, with the risk of downtime and damage if there are delays or mishaps. And the longer your company is unable to practice business as usual, the less profit you’ll be making. Sometimes it’s better to leave it to an experienced move management company, so you can focus on what you know best – your business.
This doesn’t mean selecting the first move management company you see. Do your research. Make some calls. Find out how experienced they are, what other people are saying and how they would help you specifically. Choosing the right company to help with your office relocation is fundamental to a smooth move.
Underestimating the complexity of your IT suites
IT is a massive part of any business. In fact businesses often depend on IT systems. With so much critical data stored on our devices, attempting to move this alone is a huge office relocation mistake that is too often made. Even if you are set on moving your office single-handedly, speaking to an IT specialist and having them check out your new premises to ensure it’s suitable for your equipment could be the difference between success and failure. Not only will they tell you if your new site is suitable, but they can also advise you on how to plan your new office layout as well as set up your internet connection and servers before the big move. Expert advice and minimal downtime, win-win!
Not setting a budget
A simple but all to common office relocation mistake. Not setting a budget can cripple any relocation project. Getting professional advice to assist you in defining your size requirements and analysing the market will help you massively when it comes to setting a budget in line with your specific needs. Have you considered a deposit on your new space? First month’s rent? Initial bills and refurbishment costs? How about removal costs, temporary storage, cleaners, recruitment, updates to your website and business cards? There’s a lot to think about when embarking on your office relocation which is why you don’t want to get caught out if your budget hasn’t allowed for the smaller details.
Perhaps you’re on the other end are going in with no budget restrictions. You’ll just take what comes your way. Well, this can be disastrous for your bank account. It’s easy to get carried away with kitting out your new office but avoiding paying out for unnecessary costs will benefit you in the short and long term.
Failing to get the right moving equipment
From the moving lorry down to the boxes and protection, getting the right moving equipment is essential. Because trust us, it’s really not worth risking valuable equipment or data. For all the unnecessary costs in an office relocation, purchasing effective moving equipment is not one of them. Boxes and labels may seem trivial, but you won’t be saying that when you get to your new office space and don’t have to figure out which cable is for which computer in which department.
Forgetting to insure your valuables
Office equipment is too important, fragile and expensive to risk not having insurance. Ensure you do your research to source a reputable insurance company that will cover costs for any damaged valuables. Of course in an ideal world nothing would get lost or broken, but it is definitely worth investing in insurance so you can rest assured that your relocation will go as smoothly as possible.
Ready to relocate?
Consolidated Services are international pioneers of office relocation and storage solutions. Our 30 years experience and knowledge in the industry will give you peace of mind that we only deliver an exceptional service. Give us a call today to start planning your office relocation.
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