Here’s a moving checklist tailored for businesses, covering the first six weeks of the relocation process.

Week 1: Planning & Strategy

• Set a Moving Date: Confirm the timeline for your relocation.
• Create a Moving Team: Designate key staff members to oversee the move.
• Budget Planning: Develop a budget for the move, including expenses for movers, supplies, and downtime.
• Inventory Assets: Conduct an inventory of all furniture, equipment, and supplies.
• Notify Stakeholders: Inform employees, clients, and suppliers about the upcoming move.

Week 2: Logistics & Coordination

• Hire Moving Services: Research and hire a commercial moving company.
• Change of Address: Update your business address with USPS and notify banks, vendors, and clients.
• Plan New Space Layout: Create a floor plan for your new office layout.
• Utilities Setup: Contact utility providers to schedule disconnection and connection dates.
• Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin packing items not frequently used, such as files and decor.

Week 3: Organization & Packing

• Continue Packing: Focus on departments or areas that can be packed early (storage rooms, conference rooms).
• Label Everything: Clearly label boxes with contents and designated departments.
• Create an Inventory List: Maintain an inventory of items being moved.
• Digital Backup: Ensure all important data and files are backed up securely.
• Plan IT Infrastructure: Coordinate with your IT team for the relocation of equipment and setup in the new location.

Week 4: Final Preparations

• Confirm Moving Details: Reconfirm the moving date, time, and logistics with the moving company.
• Pack Remaining Items: Begin packing daily-use items in the office.
• Notify Clients: Send a formal notification to clients about the address change and any potential downtime.
• Arrange for Security: If applicable, arrange for security measures at the new location (e.g., alarm systems).
• Prepare for Moving Day: Organize access to the new location, parking for the moving truck, and any necessary permits.

Week 5: Moving Week

• Finalize Packing: Pack up all remaining items and ensure everything is labeled.
• Clean the Old Office: Conduct a thorough cleaning of the old space.
• Setup IT Equipment: Ensure IT staff is prepared to disconnect and reconnect equipment on moving day.
• Moving Day: Supervise the moving process, ensuring all items are loaded and transported.
• Communicate During Move: Keep communication open with staff and clients during the transition.

Week 6: Settling In

• Unpack Essentials First: Prioritize unpacking equipment, furniture, and supplies needed for daily operations.
• Set Up Utilities: Confirm that all utilities are functioning (internet, phone, electricity).
• Organize the New Space: Arrange furniture and office layout as per your floor plan.
• Host an Open House: Invite employees and stakeholders to tour the new space and build excitement.
• Evaluate the Move: Hold a debrief meeting with the moving team to discuss what went well and areas for improvement.

Feel free to customize this checklist to meet your business’s unique needs! Happy Moving!