There may come a time when you need to relocate your business. Whether you are in need of more space or you just want a change of scenery, sometimes your circumstances might require you to move your business. When this happens, it can be overwhelming. Relocating a business is a huge undertaking, especially if you are running a large corporation. There are so many logistics to consider such as moving all of your employees, several floors of furniture, loads of technology, and everything in between. Not to mention you have to find a way to keep your business up and running during the process.

The good news is that with the right planning and attention to detail, your business’s move can be a smooth and simple process. Consider the following tips for a successful business relocation.

Tell Everyone Ahead of Time

The first step in your corporate relocation involves notifying employees, staff, and customers that the move will be happening. You should conduct a pre-moving meeting and include all people that will be affected by the move . It is important that everyone be notified well in advance so they can voice their needs and concerns. They may also be able to provide additional insights that can help the move go smoothly. Regardless of the reason for your move, it should be promoted as positive, optimistic, and a positive step for the business.

Create a Moving Plan

Much like moving a house, moving a business is most successful when there is a plan in place. Here are a few ways to create an office relocation plan:

1. Designate someone to be the primary person in charge of the move. This person will serve as the in-office coordinator and should be able to make decisions regarding the move for your company.
2. Assign a small project planning team that can assist the office coordinator.
3. Make a note of important dates such as current lease termination, move-in day, new lease signing, and final dates for the completion of the move.
4. Create a moving budget and gather estimates for moving expenses and hiring movers.
5. Hire a moving company to assist with all of your moving needs including all office furniture and equipment. Be sure to have an IT team prepared to help you set up all of your computers and technological equipment.

Prepare for Packing

Whether you are moving yourself or hiring professional movers, it is important to prepare by gathering all of your packing supplies. This includes boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, and packing peanuts. Depending on the size of your business, this might be a task that is best suited for professionals. If you are moving a small business, however, you can choose to enlist the help of your employees. Just be sure everything is neatly packed and correctly labeled so it will be easier when it comes time to unpack.

Transport Your Equipment

Whether you are moving down the street or across town, you want to be sure your business equipment is moved safely. This includes all computers, machinery, documents, and any inventory you might be moving. Moving business related equipment and items can be rather difficult, which is why it is probably in your best interest to hire professional movers. Keep in mind that you might also need to provide your employees with temporary computers and equipment to allow them to work from home during the relocation process.

Set Things Up As Quickly as Possible

You want to have your business up and running as quickly as possible and that means having everything ready for your employees when they return to the new office. Make sure you coordinate with your IT team or a professional computer service that can help you set up your equipment and have everything in working order. The project manager should be working closely with the moving company to ensure that all furniture and equipment is properly installed and ready for use.

If you want to relocate your business successfully, you will probably need the help and expertise of a qualified professional. This will help to ensure that your move is as seamless and hassle-free as possible and it will allow you to get your business up and running as quickly as possible.