Moving isn’t for everyone. The process is hectic and time-consuming, especially if you don’t have a plan. To top it all, it may cost you a fortune and even a strained muscle or two if you’re not careful.
Things get even trickier when it comes to commercial relocation. According to statistics, about 7.5% of small and medium-sized companies are reluctant to move due to the stress involved in relocating.
If you’ve determined that you need to move your office, there is no need to feel this way. The tips below are approved by top office removalists in Sydney to help take away the stress of relocating.
1. Plan ahead
There should be a clear step-by-step guide for relocating offices. Proper prior planning will help you save time, and money and will stand as a strong guide when moving. Ensure you start your moving preparations some months earlier. Identify your business moving requirements and take time to search for a company that fits your needs. Find out if they have the right moving tools. Ask about their rates. Determine if they have insurance and licenses, and check out their reputation.
When you plan, you also get time to get rid of unwanted materials. You can determine and leave behind old furniture and shred unwanted paperwork. Doing away with junk can reduce your moving cost immensely.
Downtime is common when moving. Ensure you plan for it as well. You can reduce the workers’ tasks prior, and after the move. Also, setting up your new office in advance will reduce their stress, and allow them to settle down and get back to work fast.
2. Internal communication
Always keep your staff in the loop about the move. Let them know when you intend to move and why. Also, inform them about their roles during the move, and when and how to pack up their desks to save time.
Informing your employees about the move early enough will allow them to adapt to the move. You can communicate through a memo or hold a meeting provided everyone is updated. Your employees should give you feedback that you should use to help them settle better in their new offices.
Additionally, consider compensating your employees if the move affects their daily commute. When you cater to your staff needs, they will feel valued and will be excited about the business relocation.
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3. Create an office moving checklist
Staying organised can help you have a streamlined office moving experience. So always have a checklist to guide you through the process of shifting your office to another location. You only need a simple record detailing the things you need to move.
An ideal checklist should contain;
- Technology, including phone system, data services, etc
- Space and furniture
- Vacated office consideration
- Communication considerations, among others
4. Make use of DIY packing
One effective way to cut costs during commercial moving is to do your own packing. Save boxes early on to avoid buying new boxes for packing. To reduce the workload, you can ask the entire office to participate in the exercise. Make it more of a fun team-building practice and ensure you reduce the staff workload during that time.
Once you’ve packed your stuff, the job will be easier for the moving company, and it will most likely cost you less.
5. Hire experts
The best decision you can ever make when moving your office is to hire professionals who understand the whole moving process. Experts will ensure your things are securely packed to avoid damages, transported faster and safely, and they will unpack them when you get to your destination.
When you work with a moving company, you’re guaranteed your equipment and furniture will not get lost and will reach your new location in good shape. In case of breakages or loss, you’re assured of compensation because these companies have insurance.
6. Move minor items separately
Business moves entail lots of moving parts. You’ll be required to pack the filing cabinet, desk, computer, and other small equipment. To avoid this hustle, consider moving minor, nonessential stuff separately. By having them transported earlier, you’ll be able to save on time and cut on cost.
7. Back up data
While accidents are rare when using a reputable moving company, they do happen. You want to caution your data in case disaster strikes. This is because when there’s damage to your electronics, the insurance company can compensate your electronics but won’t pay for or recover your lost data.
To keep your data safe, ensure you back up all the data before moving. You can choose to back up your data in the cloud or a hard drive. These will come at an extra cost, but it gives you peace of mind knowing your data is safe regardless of what happens. Besides, backing up data can allow your employees to continue working from their laptops even before settling in their new offices.
Conclusion
Commercial moving doesn’t have to be strenuous. On the contrary, it should feel like an enjoyable experience for you and your employees. Implementing the above tips will not only help you cut down costs but also save time. Contact experienced office removalists in Sydney today to revolutionise your business moving experience.