What Every Business Should Know Before an Office Move

Businesses generally have less flexibility than residential customers when something goes wrong. An employee may be able to live around unpacked boxes for several days, but a company cannot easily operate without computers, phones, internet access, or essential documents.

The planning period should reflect the size and complexity of the office.

Companies should identify:

• The final date at the existing office
• The date the new location becomes accessible
• Lease obligations
• Renovation or construction deadlines
• Moving company availability
• Internet and utility installation dates
• Employee work arrangements during the transition
• Building loading and elevator restrictions
• Furniture delivery or installation dates

Building management should also be contacted early. Some commercial properties restrict moving activities to evenings or weekends and may require certificates of insurance from outside vendors.

Build a Realistic Office Moving Budget

Moving expenses can extend well beyond the amount quoted by a moving company.

A realistic budget should account for the entire relocation rather than transportation alone. Depending on the business, costs may include packing materials, insurance, IT support, furniture installation, temporary storage, cleaning, signage, security systems, utility setup, and employee downtime.

Unexpected costs should also be anticipated.

For example, existing furniture may not fit the new floor plan. Older networking equipment may need replacing. Building management may charge for after-hours elevator access.

Businesses researching relocation options can use My Moving Journey as a moving directory and resource website when exploring moving companies and educational information before making hiring decisions.

The objective should be to understand the complete financial impact of relocation before contracts are signed.