Top five things to consider when moving an office

Relocating an office is a big task, whether for an SME or a small business. There are so many options to investigate, so many points to consider, and a lot of trial and error involved. If you need to move your office and are stuck with how to go about it, here is a guide to make it easier and to help save costs for your business.

1. Budget

Anybody would love an office in the swankiest building in town but, honestly, not everyone can afford it. Office space can be expensive, often charging more than it's worth. Mark out your budget at the start. Consider how much you can spend on a workplace and then visit only the spaces that fall within it.

2. Interiors and fittings

People often forget to calculate the cost of interior design and fittings, which can add up to roughly half of your lease amount. Consider the various options for using the available space well and saving costs at the same time, and check with service providers what designs are available.

3. Office furniture

How many desks will you need? What kind of chairs? These are questions to settle before moving. You may be able to use your old furniture — if it fits, you save money and the time you would otherwise spend looking for new furniture.

4. IT and other equipment

Decide whether you will upgrade to new systems or relocate the old desktops. Leased electronic equipment may need the vendor's permission to move. Internet and telephone connections must also be thought of: shift to new providers or stick with the same ones.

5. The moving plan

Draw up a detailed moving plan. Fix dates and times for the move and the set-up in the new space; it can take a week to settle in. Pack sensitive materials properly to avoid damage, and remember that certain furniture and equipment will need dismantling and re-installation — consider hiring a professional to take care of it.

Moving an office is hard work but rewarding as well. Or skip most of it: you can move into one of our furnished, serviced offices within days and focus on working and growing your business. Call 0620 212 171 for more information.