Moving a single office can be a logistical challenge. Now imagine moving multiple offices at the same time — consolidating three offices in London into one, or moving teams across buildings on the very same day. The removals partner you choose can make or break the entire operation.
Genuine multi-site experience, not just capacity
Many moving companies have enough staff and vans for large-scale removals. But fewer have actually dealt with the sort of coordination required when multiple sites are moving in parallel and a delay at one location can cause cascading issues at others. When assessing a potential partner’s capacity, be sure to ask for specific examples demonstrating their experience with multi-site removals rather than the largest single-site job they’ve managed.
We need the right manager, not the most movers
For a multi-site move there needs to be someone in charge of coordination who understands the big picture: which teams are moving when, what has to be on-site first to keep everyone’s work operational, and what needs to be done to keep the overall department functional until the work is done. When vetting potential moving partners, find out who will be managing it day-to-day and ensure it is a named project manager rather than a random mover assigned to be team lead.
It’s all about the right order
When removing several departments or entire sites at the same time, the order in which things are done is critically important. For example, staff and desks should not arrive until the IT infrastructure has been installed and fully tested. And archival materials, as well as equipment that is rarely used, can be the last things to go.
A good partner in removals should be able to go through the steps of this process with you well in advance of the moving date and not try to do it on the day.
Out of hours and weekend removals
Evening and weekend moves have less of an impact on trading and client-facing activities, and therefore are better for businesses who cannot afford a full day of downtime. When booking, ask your removals partner if they can do an out-of-hours move and if there are any hidden costs for doing so.
Handling of IT and sensitive equipment
Special handling, packing, transportation, and insurance (if needed) are required for servers and other network or specialized machinery, which are not treated the same as standard office furniture, so check what the company’s experience is with technology moves and what insurance coverage there is for equipment that is considered high value while in transit.
Multiple locations communication
When working with numerous locations, communication becomes vital. It is essential that the removals company has good communication with your office contact, as well as everyone at the other locations. Find out who has this information, as well as the person who can make adjustments at the last minute.
Having one point of contact makes things easier
While several teams may be working in different locations during the move, the business should have one point of contact throughout the planning and execution of the move. This prevents confusion due to several site managers sharing information and data. If you need a partner who knows how to manage a relocation across multiple sites and businesses in London, contact us for a full consultation and estimate.
Leave a Reply