How to Plan a Commercial Move

Moving is a significant undertaking for anyone changing locations and doubly so when relocating a business. If your business plans to change addresses in the near future, use this plan to ease the stress involved and help the process go as smoothly as possible.

Don't try to move the office by yourself or only with employees' help. While a do-it-yourself move might seem like an effective cost-saving measure, this doesn't actually result in savings once all expenses are taken into account because:

• Employees must receive payment for the time spent packing, moving, and unpacking boxes.
• Time spent moving has an opportunity cost as employees don't do their normal jobs.
• A truck will likely need to transport large furniture.
• Items are more likely to be misplaced when everyone's involved.
• Employees may hurt themselves by lifting heavy objects improperly.

If employees receive injuries while moving boxes and furniture, your business will likely have to file a workers compensation insurance claim. That claim could result in higher workers compensation premiums for several years in the future, for insurance companies can look at a business' past claims history when setting rates of policies.

Instead of taking on these costs and risks, your business will be better off if you hire a professional moving company. Professional movers who specialize in commercial moves will know how to pack, transport, and unload everything in the most efficient manner possible so that downtime is at a minimum.

Even though your employees won't actually move boxes, you will still have some things your employees need to take care of. They'll have to at least pack up their personal effects, and you might want them to oversee files or other items that they directly handle.

Whatever your expectations for employees are, clearly communicate both what they need to do and what resources will (or won't) be available to them. Let them know:

• When personal effects must be packed up
• What (if any) other responsibilities they have during the move
• When they'll need to vacate their current space
• When they'll have access to the new space
• Who to ask if they have questions about the process

Both communicate this information directly to employees and post it for reference as the move date approaches. You should also note how to communicate any changes that arise to employees at that time.

After telling employees what to expect, share that your business will move with all customers or clients who the move may affect. Customers are generally understanding if you notify them of a move ahead of time, but they may be frustrated if your team is unavailable and they weren't told beforehand.

When telling customers about the move, make sure to share what your business is doing to minimize the inconvenience. Your customers will appreciate the dedication to provide a high level of service. You can also work with key customers or clients to find solutions that ensure you'll meet their needs the entire time.

Assuming you will have some downtime during the move, find creative solutions for employees who are unable to perform their normal duties. Depending on a person's position, you might have them:

• Make sales calls.
• Conduct in-field inspections.
• Work remotely from home.
• Attend a professional development program.
• Go to an industry conference, seminar, or show.

If your employees have absolutely nothing to do, giving them the day off is also an option. They'll likely appreciate a random free day.

To schedule a commercial movewith a professional moving company, contact Azalea City Moving Co.