How to Make Sure You’re Ready to Relocate

Many businesses have relocated since the start of the pandemic, primarily for more space or to accommodate hybrid work systems. Relocating your business takes a lot of planning. You’ll have to accept some disruption to your business, probably some loss of productivity, and maybe even a few closed days during the move. But if you prepare for the relocation in advance, you may be able to lessen the effects of disruption. Whether your move will be orderly or chaotic will depend on planning and preparation. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready to relocate.

Of course, the very first thing you have to do is to find a new office. There are several things to consider when moving to a new location. Most businesses relocate for a number of reasons – lower costs, tax benefits, the need for more space, a better employee pool, or a nicer neighborhood. One of the most important factors is whether your current employees will still be able to commute to the new office conveniently.

 

It’s best to hire a professional realtor to help you find the best working space. You’ll want someone who has expertise in commercial real estate. They’ll know the market and can find a location that best suits your business. For example, if your business is a retail store that relies on foot traffic, it needs to be in a location that’s easy to get to and will have ample parking for shoppers. A realtor will also know if there are nearby businesses that can help drive more traffic to your business. For example, a realtor can help you find commercial space in a busy business district if your business is in the finance sector.

After you’ve found a new location, you need to set a moving date. Ideally, this should be planned before the time you need to move out of your current location, given the new site is empty and ready. Establish a realistic timeline. You should have enough time to let all your employees and your consumers know. It should allow time for inventory and packing. You may want to pack and move in stages if you have a big office. You can do this by setting the timeline to move departments one at a time.

 

After you’ve found a new location and set a moving date, you need to make an announcement. Schedule an all-hands-on-deck meeting to let your employees know where the new office location will be and the date you set to move. We suggest you explain to them the reasons you’re moving as well. Not everyone might welcome the move or will be okay with the new commute. You may need to hire replacements if that’s the case.

 

You’ll also need to get the information to your suppliers, your corporate partners, and, of course, your consumers. If you have a social media site, you can post new information and any updates regarding your relocation. You can also send out an email or a letter to everyone. Have the last date you will be in your current office as well as the opening date of the new location. Divide all the tasks at hand and assign them to your employees. Kisi provides a free spreadsheet with categories for different tasks you can assign to them.

 

The costs of movers, cleaning services, storage space, and possibly a general contractor for the new space can really add up. Make sure to hire a reputable moving company that will handle your office equipment and computers carefully. You can do this by checking reviews and ratings and how long the company has been in business. You must be prepared and know how much money you’ll need to pay for all these services. You must also plan for employee relocation if you’re moving farther away.

Make a list of furniture, equipment, and computers. Determine if it’s worth it to disassemble large furniture and transport it or if you should purchase new furniture for the new location. Back up your data and have a plan on how to shut down and move your technical equipment. Again, you can decide if you want to transport the equipment or purchase new ones, such as copy machines and printers. Coordinate your plans with your IT team or hire a skilled IT facilitator if you don’t have IT's.

 

Use the blueprints for your new location to plan the layout. The blueprints will help when you're directing where the new furniture should go and where the movers should place everything else. Have a plan in place on where and when to move furniture and other equipment. You’ll also need to figure out when to install services. Having the layout in advance will also be beneficial if you’re moving business departments in stages.

You’ll need to update your address on everything. This includes your website, social media, and printed materials. Order new letterheads, business cards, and signage that reflect the new information. Since this can take a while to arrive, get them made in advance. Rushed orders will cost more. Make sure you destroy all the old printed materials so that they don’t get used by mistake after you move. Having your old address on anything after you move will end up confusing your customers.

Check with each team you’ve assigned tasks to and whether they're completing each task on schedule. Give all your employees regular updates regarding the relocation and check with them if they need assistance.

If you’re thinking of relocating your business, contact The Cohen | DeBuiser Team. They specialize in office, industrial, and commercial property for sale in San Fernando Valley, as well as investment properties and lots for sale in Ventura County. They are the area’s exclusive sales-only real estate team, so they can provide the best opportunities for all their clients.

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