Office move checklist: plan it so the business keeps running

A good office move is planned three to six months ahead and done over a weekend, with IT moved last and tested first. Use this checklist to keep the business running.

Three to six months before

• Check the notice period and the dilapidations (repair) terms in your current lease.
• Name one person to run the move, with a budget and a deadline.
• Plan the new layout: desks, meeting rooms, power and data points.
• Order broadband and phone lines for the new address early; new lines can take weeks.

One to two months before

• Get written quotes from two or three commercial removal companies, after a site visit or video survey.
• Ask about out-of-hours moving, crate hire, IT disconnection and insurance cover.
• Tell clients, suppliers, your bank, HMRC and Companies House (if the registered office changes).
• Book lifts and loading bays at both buildings.

Moving week

• Back up data before anything is unplugged.
• Label crates and furniture by room and desk number to match the new floor plan.
• Give each person one crate for personal items and a clear-out deadline.
• Test internet, phones and the main systems on the first morning.

Choosing a commercial removal company

Look for experience with offices of your size, a named project manager, proper insurance and a fixed written quote. On Kargom you can find removal companies near you and post one request to get offers from several.