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Writer's pictureDonovan Paulino

How to Plan a Successful Corporate Move or Relocation

Updated: Jul 18

By Donovan Paulino

General Manager


Change is the only constant in life, and like everything else, it applies to businesses as well. Maybe your company is experiencing a growth spurt, or perhaps it’s time for a fresh start in a new location. Whatever the reason, corporate relocation is on the horizon.


But what is corporate move or relocation?


Simply put, it is all about moving a company’s operations, including the employees, equipment, and assets, to a new location. If not planned well, corporate relocation can be a stressful chore for you. That’s where a corporate relocation plan comes in as a star player. 


What Is a Corporate Relocation Plan?

A corporate relocation plan is a roadmap for your office relocation. From budgeting and choosing a mover to packing and setting up the new space, a good plan for a company relocation outlines everything to ensure a smooth shift. It’s like a project manager for your big transition, keeping things organized and ensuring a hassle-free move for everyone involved.


Why Is a Relocation Plan Crucial for Your Corporate Move?

A relocation plan is a compass that guides your company through the often choppy waters of an office move. Without a good company relocation plan, you risk chaos, delays, and frustrated employees. It becomes imperative due to a few relocation benefits it brings like:


Successful Corporate Move or Relocation

  • Smooth sailing: It keeps the process organized, ensuring a logical flow from initial planning to unpacking in the new space.

  • Cost control: A plan helps you anticipate and manage expenses, preventing hidden costs from derailing your budget.

  • Happy crew: By keeping everyone informed and involved, you minimize stress and create a sense of control for your team during the transition.


Understanding the Need for an Office Move


The office space, once a symbol of stability and corporate identity, has become a more fluid concept. Companies are re-evaluating their physical footprint for a multitude of reasons, driven by a constantly evolving work ecosystem. Let’s delve into some of the key factors prompting businesses to pack up their boxes and head for greener pastures:


  • Expansion

Let’s say there’s a company with an overflowing employee strength, making things unmanageable. New hires are crammed into makeshift workstations, conference rooms double as storage units, and the once-spacious breakroom is perpetually occupied by someone for meetings. This is a classic sign of needing a bigger space. A well-timed corporate office relocation allows a company to breathe, accommodate additional personnel, and foster a sense of organization and professionalism. Ultimately, you’ll have dedicated conference rooms for brainstorming sessions, quiet areas for focused work, and a breakdown that actually feels like a break. An expanded office fosters collaboration, improves employee morale, and positions the company for future growth.


  • Cost Reduction

Rent can be a hefty chunk of the company’s budget. As lease renewals approach, businesses have the opportunity to re-evaluate their space needs. Perhaps the initial office space seemed perfect for a growing startup, but now, with a leaner team or a shift towards remote work, it feels like a financial drain. Relocating to a smaller, more affordable space can free up valuable resources that can be reinvested in other areas like employee development or new technologies. It’s about being smart with resources and finding a space that aligns with the current company size and structure.


  • Transitioning to Hybrid Work

The rise of remote work has fundamentally changed how we work. Companies are embracing hybrid models, where employees split their time between the office and home. This shift necessitates a rethink of the office layout. Gone are the days of rows of identical cubicles. The modern office needs to cater to a variety of work styles. There should be designated hot desks for those who come in occasionally, collaborative areas for brainstorming sessions, and quiet nooks for focused work. A well-designed office for a hybrid workforce fosters a sense of community and belonging, even when employees aren’t physically present every day.


  • Enhancement of the Work Environment

Sometimes, an office relocation isn’t just about square footage; it’s about creating a more inspiring and productive environment. An office with dingy fluorescent lights, cramped workstations,  and paint peeling off the walls won’t inspire you to give your best, right? A modern office can be a powerful tool for attracting and retaining top talent. Think open floor plans with natural light, comfortable furniture that promotes ergonomics, and break rooms with amenities that encourage interaction and relaxation. An inviting and functional workspace improves employee well-being and sends a message about the company’s values and commitment to its people.


  • Strategic Alignment

The right office address can make a world of difference. A move to a central location with easy access to public transportation or major highways would make client meetings and collaboration much more convenient. Similarly, a company looking to tap into a specific talent pool might move closer to a university or a hub for a particular industry. The office location should be a strategic decision that is aligned with the company’s goals and facilitates its connection with key stakeholders.


Six Months Before Your Move


So, the decision is made – it’s time to pack up and say goodbye to the old space. An office relocation can be exciting, signifying a new chapter for your company. However, it can also be a logistical nightmare if it is not planned properly. With six months of lead time, you can transform this potentially chaotic event into a well-oiled machine. Here are a few corporate relocation tips to follow for a smooth and stress-free transition:


  • Review the Current Lease

Before diving headfirst into the packing frenzy, take a deep breath and revisit your current lease agreement. This seemingly mundane task can save you a world of trouble down the road. Key things to check are your lease end date, any early termination clauses and associated fees, and your responsibilities for the current space, such as repairs or decommissioning costs. Knowing these details upfront allows you to factor them into your corporate office relocation budget and avoid any nasty surprises later.


  • Designate an In-Office Moving Team

No one person can manage an entire office relocation alone. Delegation is the key here. Assemble a team of reliable and organized employees to spearhead the planning process. This team can be responsible for tasks like researching relocation management companies, coordinating with IT for data transfer, and creating a communication strategy to keep relocating employees informed.


  • Set a Budget

An office move can be an expensive undertaking. Don’t get caught off guard by unexpected costs. Work with your finance department to create a detailed budget that takes into account everything from hiring movers to purchasing packing supplies. Remember to factor in hidden costs like insurance for the move, potential downtime during the transition, and any necessary furniture upgrades for the new space.


  • Start Researching Moving Companies

Finding the right corporate relocation management company is essential. Don’t just go with the cheapest option. Take the time to research relocation services with experience handling office moves, preferably ones familiar with your industry, like Guam Pak Express – GPX. Scan our  website or give us a call at 671-646-2623.


Unless you are planning a very light move, you’ll need a moving company to save you time, stress, and possible damage to your company’s belongings. The right moving company should have experience shipping to Guam and within Guam, such as Guam Pak Express – GPX.


Guam Pak Express (GPX)  is the solution for all your moving needs. Our team has extensive experience handling Guam shipping logistics and knows how to arrive your belongings at the destination with maximum safety and efficiency. We understand the intricacies of Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency (CQA) regulations, if you are moving to Guam, and can guide you through the process to avoid delays. 


We also offer different insurance plans during your move. Our basic coverage protects against loss or damage during transit. Our optional plans offer additional coverage on high-value items like electronics or artwork. 


  • Start a To-Do List

Relocating an office involves a million details. Don’t trust your memory – create a comprehensive to-do list and update it regularly. Break down the tasks into manageable chunks with deadlines, assigning them to specific team members, which will help keep everyone on track and prevent last-minute scrambling. Consider using tools for office relocation project management or online collaboration platforms to keep everything organized and accessible to the team.


  • Announce the Move to Your Employees and Seek Feedback

Change can be unsettling, so don’t keep your relocating employees in the dark. Announce the move as early as possible, and be transparent about the timeline and reasons behind it. Hold meetings to create a dedicated communication channel to address any questions or concerns. This also presents a great opportunity to gather valuable employee feedback. Ask them about their needs for the new space – do they prefer more collaborative areas? Quiet zones for focused work? Consider their input when designing the layout for the new office.


  • Ensure Everything Will Fit in the New Office

What if, on your moving day, you realize that your prized conference table won’t fit through the door of the new office? Don’t let this be you. Carefully measure the new space and create a detailed floor plan. Then, take inventory of your existing furniture and equipment. Be ruthless. Is that old fax machine really necessary? Can you replace bulky filing cabinets with a digital storage system? By downsizing and strategically planning your layout, you can ensure a smooth transition into the new space.


  • Make an Inventory

Speaking of inventory, creating a detailed list of all your office equipment is essential. This helps you determine what needs to be moved, aids insurance purposes, and prevents any important items from getting lost in the shuffle. Label everything clearly with department and content information for easy identification during the packing and unpacking process. You can also hold an office warehouse sale to get rid of inventory you absolutely will not need.


Three to Four Months Before Your Move


The wheels are officially in motion. With a few months left until the big move, it’s time to shift gears and solidify your plans. Here’s what you need to do to keep the momentum going:


  • Lock in Your Moving Date

With quotes in hand and research complete, it’s time to select your moving company and secure your desired moving date. This is especially important if your new space has a limited window of availability. Once confirmed, communicate this state clearly and prominently to your relocating employees so they can start making personal arrangements.


  • Solidify Your Moving Plan

Now’s the time to refine your initial moving plan into a detailed action map. Work with your chosen corporate relocation management company to finalize logistics like packing schedules, access arrangements for both locations, and ensure the safe transportation of any particularly bulky or fragile equipment. Coordinate with your IT team to ensure a smooth data transfer and minimize downtime during the transition. Don’t forget to factor in any permits or special arrangements needed for loading and unloading at both locations.


  • Announce the Moving Date to Your Employees

By now, you’ve likely announced the general idea of the move. But with a confirmed date in hand, it’s time to make things official. Send out a company-wide announcement with the specific moving date, details about the new location, and any key information employees need to know. This could include parking information for the new office, a timeline for IT setup, or seating locations in the new space.


  • Notify Outside the Company

An office relocation doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Don’t forget to update your business address with important entities like the IRS, banks, vendors, and clients. Create a change-of-address announcement to send out via email or even a formal printed card. This ensures a smooth transition and avoids any disruptions in communication or deliveries.


  • Hire & Schedule the Moving Company

After you’ve hired Guam Pak Express - GPX, schedule a pre-move inspection. This allows us to assess the scope of the move and provide a more accurate estimate of the costs and resources needed.


  • Start Gathering Moving Supplies

You wouldn’t show up to a marathon without proper shoes, right? The same goes for an office move. You need to gather moving supplies like sturdy boxes, packing tape, packing peanuts, and clear labels. Consider color-coding boxes by department or floor to make unpacking at the new location a breeze. Investing in a good box cutter and some furniture dollies will save your team from backaches and frustration on the move day.


Two Months Before Your Move


With the move date looming, it’s time to focus on the new office and get those packing muscles warmed up. Here’s what you need to tackle in the next two months:


  • Design a Floor Plan

Remember all those measurements you took of the new space? Put them to good use. Design a floor plan that maximizes functionality and caters to your company’s needs. Think about traffic flow, common areas, and designated work zones. Consider incorporating employee feedback you gathered earlier – a collaboration corner for brainstorming sessions or quiet nooks for focused work can go a long way in boosting morale and productivity.


  • Schedule Disconnection, Transfer, and Setup Services

Don’t get caught flat-footed on the moving day. Schedule disconnection and setup services well in advance for essential utilities like internet, phone lines, and IT infrastructure. Coordinate with the moving service provider to ensure they have access to both the old and new office buildings during these crucial windows. Remember to schedule cleaning services for both locations – a fresh start in a sparkling new office is always a good thing.


  • Purchase New Furniture or Equipment

The move might be the perfect opportunity to upgrade your outdated office furniture or equipment. Are those ergonomic chairs a dream no more? Should the outdated printer be replaced? Take stock of your current inventory and identify any areas for improvement. Research new furniture options that align with your floor plan and consider investing in technology that will enhance your team’s work experience.


  • Start Packing

It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get packing. Start with items that aren’t regularly used, like seasonal decorations, old files, or archived documents. Clearly label boxes with contents and destination room to avoid unpacking chaos at the new office. Encourage employees to start packing their personal belongings and declutter their desks – a clean slate is a productive slate.


  • Check on the New Office

Schedule a pre-move inspection of your new office space. This is a chance to identify any potential issues that need addressing before the big day. Are there any last-minute repairs needed? Is the lighting adequate? Don’t hesitate to bring your office moving company representative along to discuss logistics and access points. By catching any glitches early on, you can ensure a smooth transition into your brand-new space.


One Month Before Your Move


The one-month mark is crunch time. The excitement of the new space mingles with the looming reality of packing boxes and saying goodbye to the familiar. Here’s what you need to do to keep the momentum going and ensure a smooth transition:


  • Continue Tagging Furniture, Equipment, and Office Supplies

By now, most communal areas and infrequently used items should be packed and labeled. Turn your attention to office supplies, equipment, and furniture. Clearly tag each item with its contents, destination room, and department to avoid the unpacking equivalent of a treasure hunt. Color coding can be a helpful strategy for different departments or floors in the new office.


  • Back-Up Data

A data disaster during an office move is the stuff of nightmares. Don’t let it happen to you. Work with your IT team to ensure all critical company data is securely backed up. This includes everything from server files to individual employee desktops. Consider cloud storage solutions or external hard drives to create a reliable backup system. Once the data is safe, you can move forward with packing computers and electronic equipment with peace of mind.


  • Coordinate Moving Truck Departure and Arrival

Moving day is full of logistical complexities, and the moving truck plays a key role. Work with us to solidify the departure time from your old office and the estimated arrival time at the new office location. Factor in potential traffic delays and buffer some extra time to avoid a last-minute scramble. Communicate this information clearly to your team and ensure everyone is aware of the moving window.


  • Assign Everyone the Task of Packing Up Their Own Desk

It’s time to empower your employees. Assign them the task of packing up their own desks and personal belongings. Provide clear guidelines on what can and cannot be brought to the new office, and offer support for packing fragile items. This lightens the load for the designated moving team and encourages employees to take ownership of their workspace and declutter their belongings. A win-win for everyone involved.


One Week Before Your Move


The finish line is in sight, but there’s still some crucial groundwork left. Don’t get caught off guard by last-minute details:


  • Update Your Address

Update your new address with the post office, banks, vendors, and any other relevant parties. Nobody wants lost mail or billing issues during this transition.


  • Remind Employees to Finish Packing

Send a friendly reminder to your employees to finalize packing their personal belongings. Offer assistance for anyone who needs a last-minute hand with bulky items or fragile equipment.


  • Prepare IT for the Move

Work with your IT team to ensure a smooth data transfer and network setup at the new office. Schedule the disconnection of IT infrastructure at the old location and its reconnection at the new one. The goal is to minimize downtime and ensure your team can hit the ground running on day one.


On Moving Day


It’s finally here – moving day. After months of planning and packing, it’s time to see your hard work come to fruition. But don’t hit snooze just yet. Here’s what you need to do:


  • Be at the Old Office to Meet the Movers

Greet the movers at your old office with a smile and a clear understanding of the plan. Have a designated point person ready to answer any questions and ensure everything runs smoothly.


  • Conduct a Final Walk-Through of the Vacated Office

Once the movers have loaded the truck and waved goodbye, take a final walk-through of the vacated space. Double-check for any forgotten items or lingering messes. Take a moment to appreciate all the memories made in the old office, and get ready to embrace the exciting possibilities of the new.


Further Factors to Consider for a Successful Corporate Relocation


A successful office move isn’t just about getting boxes from point A to point B. There are some additional factors to consider for a seamless transition, such as:


  • Post-Move Evaluation

Once the dust settles, schedule a post-move evaluation. Gather feedback from your team about the relocation process, identifying any areas for improvement for future moves.


  • Communication and Transparency

Open communication is necessary throughout the entire moving process. Keep your employees informed about every step, from the initial announcement to the unpacking process in the new space. Address any concerns promptly and openly. Also, maintain open communication with the property owner to avoid any potential hassles.


  • Post-Move Support

Moving can be stressful, so offer support to your team during the transition. Provide resources for unpacking and settling into the new office. Consider hosting a welcome lunch or team welcome activity to boost morale and foster a sense of community in the new space.


Ready to Organize Your Office Move?


So, the boxes are stacked, the farewell date is locked, and a new chapter awaits. With careful planning and a well-defined relocation plan, your office move can be an exciting adventure, not a logistical nightmare. Turn that “new office” feeling into a lasting reality for your team. And since office relocation presents several challenges, you can bet on corporate relocation services from Guam Pak Express — GPX and we’d be honored to be your movers to your new office.


Donovan Paulino is the general manager of Guam Pak Express.  To contact Donovan, please email him at Don.Paulino@guampak.com

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