Office Moving 101: The 5 Step Office Relocation Guide

Is your small business gearing up for the monumental change of relocating to a new office space? Office moving can be a nerve-wracking endeavour, but with the right information and preparation, it can also be a strategic catalyst for growth and change. Read our office moving guide to ensure your office move is a successful move.

14 min read

---

Key takeaways

• Start with a thorough assessment of current and future needs, setting clear objectives for the move.
• Form a team from various departments to oversee the move, ensuring all needs are considered.
• Choose a location that supports current operations and future growth, considering employee commute and client access.
• Plan your budget to include moving costs, potential renovations, and unforeseen expenses.
• Research and select an office relocation service with office moving experience, ensuring they are licensed and insured.
• Keep employees, clients, and partners informed throughout the moving process.
• Focus on setting up the new office efficiently, from IT infrastructure, employee workspaces, office furniture and allow time for adjustment.

---

An office move, no matter the size or distance, is a multifaceted operation that demands preparation, precision, and patience. It’s essential to view the relocation not just as a logistical task, but as an opportunity to reinvent and streamline your company’s infrastructure.

Small businesses frequently underestimate the complexities of an office move. With employee morale, client relationships, and operational continuity at stake, every detail must be meticulously managed. The overarching objective is to create a smooth, structured process that upholds the company’s image and service delivery while minimising setbacks during the office relocation.

1. Pre-move planning: The blueprint for your business transition

Before maps and boxes come into play, you must understand why you’re moving. Are you seeking a more accessible location to clients? Are you downsizing to reduce costs? Conduct a comprehensive assessment of your current challenges and future needs. Objectives may vary from minimising costs to ensuring a floor plan that fosters better team collaboration.

Any successful office move will then follow onto a comprehensive pre-move planning. This phase is crucial for setting the foundation of your relocation project. It involves conducting an initial assessment of your needs and resources, followed by setting clear, achievable objectives. Here’s how to approach this vital stage:

A. Conducting an initial assessment

• Start by assessing your current office space. What works well, and what doesn't? Consider your company's growth projections and how a new space can accommodate future expansion. Think about location, size, layout, and any special requirements such as electrical equipment, storage needs, conference rooms, or technology infrastructure.
• Create a comprehensive inventory of your company’s physical assets. This will not only help you determine what needs to be moved but also assist in identifying IT equipment, office furniture removal or stationary equipment that can be sold, donated, or disposed of before the move.

B. Setting clear objectives

• Define your budget: Based on your initial assessment, establish a budget for the move. Consider all potential costs, including office moving services, transit insurance, new furniture, potential renovations, and any downtime that may affect business operations.
• Timeline: Develop a realistic timeline for your business move. Consider the best timing to minimise impact on your business, such as during slower periods or over a weekend. Ensure there is ample time for planning, packing, the actual move, and setting up in the new location.
• Minimal business disruption: One of the primary objectives should be to minimise the disruption to your business operations. This means planning the business move in stages, if possible, and having a solid IT relocation strategy to ensure business continuity.
• Communication plan: Determine how and when you will communicate the move to employees, valued clients, and other stakeholders. A clear communication strategy is vital for managing expectations and minimising any potential anxiety or disruption towards the upcoming relocation.

C. Creating a moving committee

This is not a journey to embark upon alone. Assemble a professional team of reliable individuals from various departments to oversee different aspects of the move. Each member should be responsible for relaying information, concerns, and requirements to the committee, ensuring a holistic approach to decision-making.

• Select a team: Choose a moving committee led by a project manager. This team should represent different departments within your company to ensure all needs and concerns are addressed.
• Define roles and responsibilities: Each member of the moving committee should have specific roles and responsibilities. These could range from overseeing the packing of their department, managing IT relocation, to coordinating with the office removals team of movers.

D. Choosing the right office location

Location will dictate many aspects of your business, from your customer base to the talent you attract. It’s crucial to choose a space that not only meets your functional needs but also boosts your brand image and employee satisfaction. Proximity to suppliers and clients, public transport options, and available amenities are primary considerations.

• Location: Consider the geographical location that best serves your employees, clients, and overall business objectives. Accessibility, local amenities, public transport options, and the quality of the local labour market are crucial factors.
• Visit potential spaces: Conduct site visits to shortlisted office spaces. Evaluate each based on your criteria for size, layout, potential for growth, and cost-effectiveness.

2. Hiring professional office movers

After laying the groundwork with thorough planning and setting clear objectives, the next critical step in your office relocation is hiring professional office movers. This stage is pivotal for ensuring your move is executed smoothly, efficiently, and with minimal risk to your assets. Here’s how to navigate the process of selecting and working with a moving company:

A. Researching and selecting a moving company

Your movers are your partners in this venture. Research thoroughly, seeking companies with proven expertise in office relocations. Request quotes, check for industry accreditations, and read reviews. The right moving company will not only transport your assets but also provide valuable consultancy services for an organised transition.

• Start by asking for recommendations from business contacts who have recently moved offices. Which office relocation services they used. Checking online reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights.
• Ensure the moving companies you consider are licensed and insured. This is crucial for protecting your business in case of damages or losses during the move.
• Request detailed quotes from at least three moving companies. Find a mover can help with office relocation services. Make sure these are based on actual inspections of your office and inventory to avoid unexpected costs later on.

B. Evaluating proposals

When evaluating different office removals proposals, look beyond the bottom line. Compare the range of services offered, including packing, unpacking, and setup. Consider the value of these services in terms of reducing downtime and ensuring a smoother transition.

It's also a good idea to confirm the moving company’s availability around your planned moving date. It’s important to book your movers early to secure your preferred date.

C. Understanding moving contracts and insurance

Office movers typically offer various levels of insurance. Ensure you understand what is covered by each before signing a contract. Inspect your current insurance policies to avoid overspending on redundant coverage. Clarity and protection are paramount when entering into agreements with moving companies.

• Review contracts carefully: Before signing, thoroughly review the moving contract. Understand the terms and conditions, including delivery timelines, cancellation policies, and any potential additional charges.
• Insurance options: Discuss insurance coverage options with the moving company. Standard moving insurance may only cover a fraction of your assets’ value. Consider purchasing additional insurance to cover your office equipment and valuable items adequately.

D. Preparing for moving day

It is essential to schedule a pre-move meeting with the moving company to finalise details. Confirm the move schedule, inventory list, special instructions for sensitive equipment, and contact information for day-of coordination. This will ensure there is a clear communication plan for the moving day, including a point person from your team who will coordinate with the office removal team.

3. Preparing for the move

With a professional moving company on board, the next phase is to prepare your office for the move. This stage is critical for ensuring everything from your current office is accounted for, packed correctly, and ready to be transferred to your new location with minimal disruption. Here's a detailed approach to preparing for the move:

A. Office moving checklist

A comprehensive list is your best friend in the lead-up to a move. Break down tasks by department and date, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. This list will serve as your project plan, allowing for systematic delegation and monitoring of progress.

• Create a detailed list of all tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the move. This checklist should include deadlines and assign responsibilities to specific team members or departments.
• Assign realistic timelines to each task, ensuring there’s ample time for unexpected delays or issues. Regularly review and update the checklist to reflect progress and any changes.

B. Office packing strategies

Excessive downtime can be every bit as costly as a moving truck full of broken equipment. Cut your unpacking time and stress by carefully planning how to pack. Begin purging outdated documents and items that won’t make the move with you. Label boxes comprehensively to guide the unpacking process and maintain order during office setup.

• Decide what to move: Based on your initial inventory, decide which items will be moved, sold, donated, or discarded. This is an excellent opportunity to declutter and optimise your office setup.
• Special packing for IT equipment: Coordinate with your IT department for the proper disassembly, packing, and labelling of computers, servers, and other technical equipment. Consider hiring IT specialists if necessary to minimise the risk of damage and to ensure all equipment is moved safely.
• Labelling system: Implement a detailed labelling system for boxes and office furniture that includes the item's content, the responsible person or department, and its designated location in the new premises. This will streamline the unpacking process and ensure items are placed correctly from the start.

C. Communicating the move

Open communication is key. Provide clear instructions and answers to common questions. Maintain a consistent line of communication internally and externally, leading up to and throughout the move.

• Internal communication: Keep employees informed about the move's progress, what is expected of them, and how the move will affect their work. Consider regular updates or a dedicated intranet page for ongoing communication.
• External communication: Notify clients, suppliers, and partners about your office move. Update your business address on all legal documents, websites, and social media profiles. Consider sending out a press release if the move is significant to your business operations or public image.

D. Minimising business disruption

When it comes to office relocations, it is important to develop a business continuity plan to maintain operational capabilities during the move to ensure business stability. This may involve setting up temporary workspaces or remote working arrangements for employees.

If possible, schedule the move during a weekend or after business hours to minimise impact on your operations. Ensure critical departments are set up first in the new location to resume operations quickly.

E. Final preparations before moving day

The week before the move is your last chance to ensure everything is ready. Complete final packing, dismantle larger items, and confirm that all logistical necessities are squared away. Ensure your team is well-rested and prepared for the heavy lifting tomorrow.

• Confirm details with the moving company: A week before the move, confirm the moving date, time, and logistics with the moving company. Ensure they have access and parking arrangements for the moving day.
• Prepare the new premises: Ensure utilities and services (internet, electricity, water) are set up and functional in the new office. Plan the layout of the new space and designate areas for departments, workstations, and storage.

4. Office moving day

Moving day is the culmination of all your planning and preparation. It's a busy, often chaotic day that requires clear communication, coordination, and a bit of patience. Here’s how to manage the day effectively to ensure a smooth transition to your new office space:

A. Final preparations

• Moving day kit: Prepare a moving day kit that includes essentials like tools, first aid, cleaning supplies, snacks, and water for part of the office team coordinating the move on the day. Also, include any important documents related to the move.
• Early start: Begin the day early to maximise the use of time. Ensure the moving committee and selected employees are present to assist and oversee the process.

B. Roles of the moving committee on the day

The moving committee must be present for concentrated coordination. Their responsibilities will range from overseeing the movers to directing where items should be placed in the new office. It’s advisable to have a plan for potential hiccups, such as establishing a secondary communication channel in case of technology failures.

• Point person: Assign a point person for the office removalists to contact with questions. This person should have a deep understanding of the move plan and authority to make decisions on the spot.
• IT support: Have IT support on hand to oversee the safe transport of technology and to begin setups in the new office as soon as possible.
• Employee coordination: Assign tasks to employees who are assisting with the move, ensuring they know their responsibilities and how to stay safe during the process.

C. Coordinating with the office removalists

• Final walkthrough: Conduct a final walkthrough with the movers before they start. Confirm the inventory list, special instructions for certain items, and the plan for loading and unloading.
• Efficient loading: Work with the office moving company to load items in a way that makes unloading and setting up the new office more efficient. This might involve loading last the items you need first.

D. Managing moving day logistics

• Access and parking: Ensure there is adequate access and reserved parking for the moving truck at both the old and new locations. This can help avoid delays.
• Safety measures: Implement safety measures to prevent accidents, such as clearing pathways and ensuring that everyone wears appropriate attire and footwear.

E. Arrival and setup at the new office

• Unloading plan: Upon arrival at the new office, oversee the unloading process according to the predetermined layout plans. Ensure items are placed in the correct desks, rooms or areas.
• Priority areas: Prioritise the setup of critical areas such as the IT infrastructure, workstation, printers for essential personnel, and common areas to resume operations quickly.

F. End of day review

Once the move is complete with the moving company, conduct a thorough inventory check to ensure all items have arrived and are in good condition. If there are any issues, promptly address any damages or missing items with the moving company immediately, referring to your contract and insurance policy for guidance on claims.

Hold a brief feedback session with the moving committee to discuss what went well and what could be improved. This can be valuable for future planning and future office moves.

G. Expressing gratitude

Show appreciation to the movers and any employees who played a significant role in the move. A simple thank you, a small celebration, or refreshments can go a long way in acknowledging their hard work.

5. Post-move setup and adjustment

Once the dust has settled and your business has officially moved to the new office, the work isn't over yet. The post-move phase is crucial for ensuring your office and team adjust smoothly to the new environment. This stage involves setting up your new space, addressing any immediate issues, and helping your team adapt to the change. Here's how to manage this critical phase:

A. Unpacking and organising the new office

Begin setup with an unpacking strategy that puts high-priority areas first. Having a clear vision of your ideal office layout will speed up this process.

• Strategic unpacking: Begin with unpacking and setting up essential areas first, such as the IT infrastructure, workstations for critical operations, and common areas like office furniture in meeting rooms, kitchens and any specialised equipment.
• Space optimisation: As you unpack, consider the layout and organisation of the new office. Aim to improve upon the setup of your previous office, taking into account the flow of movement, collaboration spaces, and individual workstations.

B. IT and Technology Setup

An operational IT infrastructure is crucial for service continuity. Work closely with your IT team and service providers to ensure a seamless setup of networks, phone systems, and any proprietary technology. Post-move tech support should be readily available to address any unexpected glitches.

• Immediate IT setup: Ensure that your IT team or service provider prioritises getting your network, servers, and workstations up and running. This is critical to resume business operations smoothly.
• Troubleshoot issues: Be prepared to troubleshoot any technical issues that arise during the initial setup. Having IT support readily available in the first few days can help address these challenges quickly.

C. Employee orientation

The move’s success ultimately hinges on employee adjustment to the new space. Organise a comprehensive orientation plan that welcomes your team to the new office. Addressing the ergonomic needs of workstations, familiarising staff with new security systems, and providing an open platform for feedback are critical steps.

• Tour the new office: Organise a tour for your employees to familiarise them with the new office layout, including important areas like emergency exits, restrooms, meeting rooms, and their personal workspaces.
• Address concerns: Create an open forum for employees to express any concerns or suggestions about the new space. Their feedback can be invaluable for making necessary adjustments.

D. Adjustment period

With any move, as a business leader you need to recognise that employees may need time to adjust to the new office and allow for that adjustment in productivity, it could mean that productivity may dip initially before it starts to improve. Be supportive and flexible as everyone settles in.

To help with the adjustment, you can organise team-building activities or casual get-togethers to boost morale and help employees feel more at home in the new space.

E. Post-move review

Reflect on the process to refine strategies for future moves. Survey employees to gauge satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Conduct a thorough review of the moving process. What worked well? What challenges did you face? What could have been done differently? This evaluation can provide critical insights for future moves or adjustments.

Ensure that all external partners, clients, and online assets are updated with your new address and contact information, if it has changed.

F. Celebrating the move

Consider hosting an office warming party to celebrate the successful move. This can be an excellent opportunity for team bonding and to welcome clients or partners to your new location. It's all part of fostering a healthy business relationship with suppliers, staff and customers.

G. Continuous improvement

Use the feedback received from employees and the moving committee to make continuous improvements to the workspace. It is also wise to keep an eye on how the new office layout impacts productivity and employee satisfaction. Be open to making changes as needed to optimise the work environment.

H. Old office clean-up

After the big move, it's just as important not to forget the clean-up and closure of your old office space. This includes both a physical end of lease cleaning and a check to ensure all contractual obligations concerning the old premises are fulfilled.

• Site inspection: Conduct a detailed inspection of the old office to identify any potential damage or repairs that need addressing before the final handover.
• Cleaning and repairs: Hire a professional end of lease cleaner to return the office space to a presentable state, often a requirement in many lease agreements. Ensure that any necessary repairs identified during the inspection are carried out.
• Documenting the state of the office: Take photos and keep records of the office's condition after clean-up to avoid any disputes with landlords or new tenants about the state of the office upon your departure.
• Key handover: Arrange for the return of all keys, access cards, and any other items that were provided during your tenancy.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, office moves can be an invigorating venture that marks a new chapter for your small business. By approaching the office relocation with the right preparation and a structured plan, you can ensure that the move enhances, rather than hampers, your business operations.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, businesses can ensure their office move is a success and stress free, paving the way for a bright future in a new location.

Remember, the goal of an office move is not just to change physical locations but to enhance your business's operational efficiency, employee satisfaction, and overall success. Celebrate this milestone and embrace the new opportunities it brings to your organisation.

Your commitment to a thorough, well-organised approach will set the tone for success in your new environment. Treat your office move as a project necessitating meticulous care and strategic foresight, and enjoy the rewards of a revitalised workspace that mirrors your company’s ambition. Office moving is a transformational exercise—one that, when executed with precision and positivity, can lead to enhanced efficiency, team spirit, supplier loyalty and better customer experiences.