9 Tips for Moving Offices

Maybe it’s time to get out of your home office and into a new professional space. Perhaps you’re adding staff, and you need room for them. Or maybe your lease is up and a move can save you money. Whatever the reason, it’s time to move. This office relocation checklist can make sure you don’t overlook anything important. 

One of the best office-moving tips is to make sure you have the insurance coverage you need during and after the move. Talk to a Farm Bureau agent to see what changes you might need to make to your business insurance, so you’re protected against the unexpected. 

1. Gather Everything in One Place

You’ll collect a lot of information as you organize your move like quotes from movers, inventories, maps and diagrams. Keep it all together so you can access it as questions come up. You don’t want to be searching through your email for an important document when you need it.

2. Set a Timeline

Preparing for a move can take months. Outline the steps and make sure you have plenty of time to do everything you need to, especially if you’re still working while coordinating the move. Leaving everything until the last minute can reduce business efficiency and open the door for important things to get missed. 

3. Get at Least Three Quotes

The cost of moving can vary significantly, so it’s a good idea to get quotes from different vendors and compare them. Make sure you dig into exactly what each service includes so you can make an accurate comparison.

4. Clear Out the Clutter

It can be hectic and chaotic when you’re moving, but try to make time to get rid of old files and furniture. You’re paying for everything you move, so it makes sense to minimize it.

5. Keep Your Employees Informed

Make sure everyone knows what’s expected of them before, during and after the move. Plan around vacations and time off as needed. When your employees know what’s happening, your move will go more smoothly.

6. Update Clients and Vendors

Your stakeholders need to know when your move is happening. You should ask them to be patient in the days around the move and make sure they know where meetings and deliveries will take place once the move is over.

7. Think About the Layout

Are there issues with your current space you’d like to resolve? Maybe you need more meeting space or places where employees can work quietly, without interruption. Plan how you’ll use the new space before you move in. 

8. Organize the Unpacking

Make sure boxes or crates are clearly labeled so the movers can place them where they belong. Designate a weekend, or the first workday after the move, as your unpacking day. 

9. Get Connected Quickly

The sooner your phones and computers are connected, the sooner you’ll be back in business. Make sure you have phone and internet service ready to go before the move.

Add Insurance to Your Office Move Checklist

When you’re moving, don’t overlook insurance coverage. You’ll need protection for your belongings during and after your move, and your new location may affect your business insurance coverage. Connect with a Farm Bureau agent to make sure your company has the protection it needs.