Relocating your Office - Good or Bad for Your Business

By Ella Andrews, Guest Writer

Amazon, Apple, Google – these are just a few names of gigantic businesses which were born as garage startups. Moving office is something common. Many companies undertake it when they need to grow and expand and the old office appears to be too small and outdated for the purpose. The process of moving, however, is not always smooth and easy. Here are some of the challenges that businesses face during relocation. 

1. Choosing the right location
Location matters. In fact, it is one of the most important items on the business’ moving checklist. A good location is likely to attract new customers, cut transportation expenses and increase employee satisfaction. However, it could also result in changing partners, contracts and utility providers. Each manager should consider these possibilities in advance in order to avoid unnecessary confusion, stress, and losses.

2. Deciding on an office size
If a business wants to grow, it would probably need a bigger office.  All the new hires, conference rooms and technology would require enough space. However, the company should make sure that they can afford it. A larger office with a more central location is likely to cost a lot. Everybody dreams to work in a spacious and modern building, but no one wants to go bankrupt there.
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3. The costs of moving office
Packing and moving everything you have in the office is not an easy task. You might need to relocate heavy technology, equipment, furniture and, of course, tons of documentation. Few people possess their own van, so you might need to hire a man and a van for the transportation. Another thing you could do is to trust a professional moving company. It will help you with everything – from packing to delivering and unpacking your belongings. However, you need to consider the cost of these removal services and whether you can afford it.  

4. Administrative  changes
As you are moving the business to a new location, you also need to change your address and notify your clients. Make sure you have paid all the necessary bills and you have rearranged your contracts with utility providers. Keep in mind that the new address should now appear on all your important documentation, business cards and promotional materials. This is also related to new expenses.

5. Let everybody know you are moving
Some of your customers might be disappointed that the office is moving. Perhaps the previous location was more convenient for them. Perhaps they were just used to it. The truth is that people often resist change. Notifying your customers that you are moving is not enough. You need to make them feel that you are doing it to provide them with better products and services. You can do that by organizing a reception in the new building. Invite all your customers, partners and employees. Make them feel special. Celebrate the new office, explore the place together.  That will be one great way to move in and start a new era in your business.
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If you find a way to overcome these challenges, moving to a new office will present you with numerous benefits for your business.  “If you can dream it, you can do it” Walt Disney said. His small garage film studio changed numerous locations, before it became one of the world’s greatest media conglomerates.