If you’ve ever coordinated an office relocation, you know how difficult and time-consuming it can be. Computers, file cabinets, and other fragile equipment make up the majority of workplaces, making transportation a challenge. However, with little planning and staying ahead of the game, you can assist in creating a move as seamless as possible.
Make a plan.
Like any other move, an office transfer is a huge undertaking that requires careful planning. With so many factors to consider, it’s simple to understand why relocating an office is one of life’s most stressful occurrences for most people. Moving may now be made less stressful by breaking it down into discrete jobs and checkpoints, just like any other procedure. Instant Offices has put up a great checklist that divides relocating offices into five discrete periods, starting six months out and ending on moving day.
Planning papers, spreadsheets, and commercial moving checklists will not only assist you in planning the move, but they will also serve as a guide for the duties ahead. Make sure to include all of the tasks that must be done and the persons, teams, and corporations that are accountable for each milestone while generating your documentation.
Choosing the most suitable site
The site is by far the most important thing to consider. You must examine how simple it is for your consumers to reach you and how easy it is for your staff to reach you.
Some workers may not be able to move to a different location. This would need additional employees, which is both expensive and time-consuming. You should also consider the expense of operating an office in your selected location.
You may discover the ideal office space, but it wouldn’t make sense to relocate if it wasn’t at a handy location.
However, when choosing a location for your company’s headquarters, you have more options than ever before. Nowadays, you may hire a desk rather than a room with everything set for you, from the internet to a maid.
Coworking spaces are springing up all across the UK, with firms like WeWork allowing small businesses to afford their workplace and compete with the industry’s large players. Of course, if you’re searching for a long-term solution or a large amount of space, conventional offices are still a viable option.
When it comes to picking a place, it’s crucial to think about the future rather than the present.
You may only need three workstations right now, but what about a year from now? As a result, it’s critical to spend a few moments considering your future growth plans.
If you plan on gaining your workforce in the near future, you’ll need to choose a location that can handle it. Try not to be stuck into a long-term contract in a facility that doesn’t allow you to expand.
Leasing
Your office lease is one of the most crucial papers you will sign as a company. It allows you to develop and flourish, but it must also be reasonable and economical. Avoid signing extended leases that bind you to the same rights or do not include a break clause. After all, you can’t forecast where the market will be in a few years, so seek flexibility unless you’re signing up for a bargain that’s too excellent to pass up.
The working environment
It’s easy to become excessively enthusiastic about a new place, what colour you’ll paint it, writing up a new seating arrangement, and so on, but before you get out the Dulux colour chart, consider what sort of office space you truly need and if it provides the amenities you want.
The most important feature of any workplace is connectivity. You must make sure that your new workplace is compatible with your chosen phone network and high-speed internet service. If you can’t work because of a lack of connection, it’s time to check with your local service providers and make sure there aren’t any cabling or connectivity difficulties. Don’t forget about the server room. Also, double-check that everything is in place before you move in.
Relocating provides you with a unique chance to fully rebuild your working environment in terms of décor and layout, which may significantly impact how productive and pleased your staff are. It’s worth looking into having the workplaces professionally designed at the very least, but whether you do it yourself or hire someone, set a budget first. The relocation is also a great time to declutter. Bring out your inner Marie Kondo (but in a professional manner).
Transporting equipment
It’s time to pack up your facility and relocate your equipment after you’ve selected your new site and signed a flexible lease. Fortunately, there are several specialised business vans peppered around the nation that you may want to consider using to assist you with your relocation.
Rather than tossing your belongings into the next box and labelling them with a Sharpie, removal firms are trained in transferring and, in certain cases, repairing and setting up your equipment. Although it may cost a little extra, these are costs you’ll incur in terms of missed working time and, in the worst-case scenario, lost equipment.
Remember that all of your hard efforts will be rewarded when you see your new, gleaming workstation. Good luck with your relocation.
