If you’ve already found the next office space you want to move the business into, then it might feel like the hard part’s done already but that’s not entirely the case. Moving a whole office can be a rather challenging and demanding task, and the longer you spend doing it, the more money you will spend on downtime. Here, we’ll look at ways you can streamline that move as best as possible.

Inform the employees early

The earlier your team knows that a move is coming, the sooner they can start to settle their work in preparation for some disruption. You don’t want to be interrupting a major project, so they need time to get out of whatever longer-term tasks they’re currently stuck in. You’re going to need a planning team to help you oversee the larger project of moving, as well. Good communication is essential.

Make sure to keep your assets protected

What are you doing to do with all the office furniture during the move? You might be able to ensure it’s all moved into the new office but without the right protections, you could be at risk of having it stolen. It may be worth considering temporary storage solutions using steel wall dividers. Otherwise, is it time to sell the older furniture and invest in refurbishing, creating a new office for the new space as freshly as possible? You need a plan for your furniture and equipment one way or another.

Consider rolling out the move step by step

There are many businesses that won’t be able to handle the slowdown and the downtime that comes with a major move. You can work with commercial movers to help make moving day as smooth as possible but it can still take time to set up operations on the other end. As such, you may want to consider moving the team and office over in different phases, allowing people to remain in the old building doing their work for a time, or you may encourage your employees to take advantage of remote working to keep the company productive from home instead.

Don’t leave clients in the dar

This tip doesn’t only count for clients of course. Communication needs to be kept clear between you and anyone your business has an important relationship with. Partners, service providers, utilities companies and more. Consider when to let people in the loop about the move, and ensure they know how to get a hold of you  Ensure that you have emergency numbers printed out and have the means to get in touch with vital staff even if they’re not available via the office. Book a date to have your telephone systems installed and operational, too.

Many of the particulars of planning will depend on the needs of the business, as well as the type of space that you’re moving into. What’s important is that you take the time to plan as early as possible and give yourself enough time to deal with any unforeseen challenges along the way.