Moving Offices: Is The Time Right?

Moving Offices: Is The Time Right?

Moving your business premises is a big event, and can signal a new chapter in your company’s growth. However, you need to be sure that the time is right for you to move; if not it can be a stressful, costly and inconvenient exercise.

Consider the space that you are currently using (a lack of space is often the main reason for moving), and think about how you will utilize the space in a bigger office. Do you have additional staff who need the room, or would it simply be a case of giving your existing staff more space? If it is the latter, you may find yourself paying more to rent a larger space, but still making the same amount of profit (which is not desirable!). If you definitely want more room, spend some time on office space planning and make sure that all your staff and movers know where everything should go once you do move, to avoid boxes piling up when you arrive at your new office.

Consider the costs involved with moving. Obviously you will need to pay a removal firm, perhaps hire vans or lorries, arrange to move your internet access (perhaps pay for a new line to be installed), and so on. However, you also need to budget for the loss of work that will be incurred whilst you move. A small office may be able to successfully move premises in around two days as long as your staff pitch in to help, but a larger office may need a little more project management. You may need to move sections of the office one at a time, or set up a temporary work space whilst the move is in progress. Make sure you can afford the expense of moving before you give it the green light.

Moving can invigorate staff and provide you with a space that is more suited to your needs, and it can also give a good impression to your customers. Make sure you let everyone know that you have moved by sending out an email to your clients, and remember to change your details on your website and stationary too!