Factors in Choosing a New Office Location

Choosing the right new office location is a significant undertaking. For many businesses, the location is critical to attracting customers and engaging staff. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a new site for your office relocation.

Convenience

The location should be convenient for customers and employees. Generally, the site should be accessible to public transportation and major highways. In addition, locating an office near a college or university may allow you access to a consistent talent pool.

If the area is bikeable, ensure that employees have a rack to park and lock their bikes. An on-premises parking lot for employee and customer cars is ideal; if the building lacks one, find out the location of the nearest lot. 

Also, consider how the new location will affect suppliers. For example, if you are moving far from your previous area, you may need to find a supplier closer to your new site.

Cost and Overall Fit

The perfect office is often a balance between cost and other factors. Establish a budget, but allow a little wiggle room. You want to avoid overpaying, yet, you also want to find an office that will be close to customers and referral partners and fit well with the company’s culture.

In many industries, such as professional services, you’ll also want a location that’s not too close to competitors. In others, such as technology, locating in an industry hub will provide opportunities to form partnerships with other firms and legitimize your brand. 

Amenities

When choosing a location, also consider the local amenities. For example, employees might appreciate an office close to gyms, lunch spots, banks, and child care. Depending on your industry, building amenities might be necessary; for example, a large building with a receptionist and security. 

Infrastructure

Most businesses are unable to run efficiently without a robust technology infrastructure. Some office spaces are already equipped with an Internet infrastructure included in the rent. Regardless of whether the office is already equipped or you are installing the infrastructure yourself, be sure the Internet connectivity is reliable, stable, and fast. Also, to be sure the infrastructure can accommodate future growth needs.

Size

The ideal office should be large enough to meet your needs now and in the future. Consider the number of workers that will inhabit the office now and as you reach your long-term growth goals. A general rule is that each employee needs at least 100 square feet. 

Also, consider how your space configuration needs might change now and in the future and whether the space is flexible enough for these changes. For example, as the company grows, you might need ample conference space. Or, if you plan to encourage employees to collaborate more in solving problems, you’ll need a comfy space away from the cubicles for them to brainstorm together.

Compliance

When choosing an office, be sure that the building complies with all laws and regulations. For example, does it have wheelchair ramps and sufficient parking for those with disabilities? Does it have enough fire exits?

By approaching an office search methodologically and keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the perfect office for your needs.

Office Move

Are you planning an office relocation? Let us help with the planning and heavy lifting. Contact us for a quote to see how our expert movers can help.

5 Most Common Mistakes Made With DIY Moves

Moving is a big task, and it’s easy to miss a couple of essential steps or make some blunders. However, the fewer mistakes made ultimately, the smoother your move will go. Here are five typical moving mistakes and what you can do to avoid them.

1. Waiting Until Last Minute to Book Your Mover

As soon as a moving date is known, start getting estimates from moving companies. Most people get about three estimates before deciding who to sign a contract with. However, don’t delay too long getting those estimates because the longer you wait to reserve a date, the higher the chances the preferred date won’t be available. Also, booking just before the date might mean paying a little more.

2. Avoiding the Declutter Process

It often feels easier just to simply toss everything into boxes and seal them up rather than take the time to sort through belongings and organize them. However, it’ll cost you, both literally and figuratively, in the long run. Decluttering isn’t fun and, for many people, stressful, but tackling this task before a move is a smarter moving strategy. It means fewer belongings to move, which means it’ll bring down the cost of your move, and it’ll give you less to unpack and make room for at your new place.

3. Trying to DIY When You Need Help

Granted, hiring movers might cost a bit more than taking the DIY route, but what you save may not be worth it in the long run. Oversized items are challenging to move and typically involve renting a vehicle and reliance on others. Unless you’re certain you can handle the move alone, hiring a professional moving company will give you complete peace of mind. Before shooting down the idea of using movers, consider how much you need to move, how many lifts will be involved, and how long it would take. Once the totals are tallied, the moving costs might not sound bad.

4. Planning to Pack in the Days Before the Move

A huge mistake many people make is not giving themselves enough time to pack. Waiting until days before the move means less organization, potentially careless packing, and the stress of not getting it done on time. Ideally, start at least two weeks to a month before the move and plan to do a little each day. This ensures you have time to pack everything securely and label it clearly. 

5. Not Properly Labeling Boxes

Another DIY mistake is when people place vague labels or do not label their boxes. It doesn’t seem like a big deal until the moving boxes arrive at the new place. No one will know what carton goes in each room, and it’s challenging to find items you need immediately. It also often results in unnecessarily moving boxes from room to room, which is tiring and time-consuming. Before the packing process starts, have stickers or a dark-colored sharpie to label each container.

Make Your Move a Smooth One

By avoiding these five moving mistakes, it’ll be much easier to get settled in, and the sooner you’ll be enjoying your new home.

Have an upcoming move and need an estimate? Contact us today for a free quote.

Top Relocation Challenges for Companies Moving Employees and How to Conquer Them

When companies move to a new state, they often want to relocate their top employees to the new site. Relocating employees can keep them on your team and avoid recruiting to fill these positions. However, relocations can be challenging and, if mishandled, can negatively affect the employee’s happiness and productivity.  Here are some tips for handling common employee relocation challenges.

Resistance to Change

Humans typically are creatures of habit and resist change. Therefore, when an external force causes them to change, they often experience a loss of control. Companies can help alleviate this by giving employees choices, such as flexible work schedules, to control the process. 

Housing

Employees will need to find housing that suits their lifestyle preferences and, unless they’re working from home, will be within an acceptable commuting distance. Housing poses challenges for several reasons. One is that housing costs and other costs of living vary between localities. As a result, companies will need to evaluate their compensation packages to allow for any cost of living differentials. Providing accurate cost information to employees will be important as well.

Another is that employees face moving offices and finding suitable housing all at once. Companies can manage this challenge by working with the employee ahead of the move to discover their housing requirements and then partnering with a real estate agent to find neighborhoods and locations that match the needs. In addition, companies can organize and allow work time for viewings before the move and pay for one house-hunting trip if they can afford it.

Employees also may need to sell their homes in their current location before buying a new one. Again, companies can offer help with advertising or reimburse employees for any amount lost because of a quick sale. 

Family

According to a survey, employees are twice as likely to cite family or similar personal issues as a reason to refuse to relocate. One way to conquer this challenge is to offer job search assistance for a working spouse.

Another way to conquer family relocation challenges is to proactively help children make a smooth transition. Companies should be aware of the issues associated with relocating children, help research schools and daycare options in the area, and offer viable support for families with children.

Moving The Employee’s Belongings

If employees manage the packing and moving of their own personal belongings, they’ll likely need more time off work and less productivity. A better option is to partner with a moving company to pack and move all the relocating employees. Companies also typically pay or reimburse most of the moving costs to encourage employees to make a move and alleviate employee distractions.

Help Relocating Your Business

Are you relocating your business? Eliminate some of the challenges of employee relocation. Contact us for assistance. We can provide employee relocation services in addition to relocating your office.

How Does Infrastructure Impact Moving Your Business to a New City or Town?

Large, mid-sized, and mom-and-pop-sized companies that look to relocate need to consider adequate infrastructure long before moving trucks arrive. The term “infrastructure” traditionally refers to roads, bridges, airports, and public transportation. But the advanced technology and other assets required to compete in today’s business environment may require industry leaders to take an expansive view of what infrastructure entails and which municipalities are best suited for relocation.

If you’re planning an upcoming office relocation, here are some things to consider.

Technology Ranks Among Top Reasons To Move A Business

It may prove fruitful to designate someone within an organization to vet potential relocation options to assess the state of technology. Most people are well aware that the rollout of 5G networks can deliver significantly improved communication. It may surprise some, but parts of the country lag far behind in 5G infrastructure. Some do not yet have robust 4G infrastructure. Trailing behind in upload and download speeds speaks volumes to a municipality’s ongoing commitment to technology infrastructure. These rank among the other essential considerations.

• Equipment Professionals: It stands to reason that a community with poor communication infrastructure remains unlikely to have experienced support organizations. Leading companies won’t be flocking to these communities, which means fewer expert support companies. That’s primarily due to supply and demand realities.
• IT Support: Although a great deal of IT support operates online, on-site technicians remain a necessity. Without the public and private technology infrastructure in place, moving a business to such an area would not be prudent.

The same reasoning holds in securing hardware quickly and renovating a building that involves installing fiber optic cables and other advanced materials. In addition, the expertise and support needed to run a successful business require an ongoing commitment to technology infrastructure.

Look At Roads and Bridges Through a Different Lens

It’s not uncommon for business leaders to consider the state of roads and bridges when relocating. This typically involves taking a weekend excursion to the city or town and driving around. This sightseeing mission allows decision-makers to experience potholes and poorly maintained highways and byways that delivery trucks would need to negotiate. Other items of interest usually involve narrow roads, bridges, and streetscapes. While a valuable assessment tool, this reconnaissance effort may lack forward-thinking.

Consider, for a moment, what the future holds in terms of traditional infrastructure improvements. Even if the highways, roads, bridges, and streetscapes enjoy reasonable functionality, ask deeper questions. The possibility of extensive roadwork and infrastructure improvements typically equals frustrating transportation delays. Community leaders often attempt to attract companies by marketing growth and improvements. However, it may be in your best interest to consider an area once they’ve been completed.

Reliable Moving Companies Remain An Essential Infrastructure Component

It may seem like outside-the-box thinking, but moving companies are a vital part of the transportation sector. Although many look at transportation almost exclusively through a freight-hauling lens, moving companies are routinely tapped to pack and relocate entire offices, equipment, and valuable employees. Inviting talented people to join the ranks of an organization often tasks employers with providing relocation stipends. In the absence of experienced professional moving infrastructure, companies could lose the brightest and best to competitors.

Conducting thorough due diligence about the current and future state of infrastructure often proves insightful and predictive of an organization’s success. If you are considering moving a business, reach out to us for a price quote. We can help relocate your business as well as your valued employees.

5 Ways to Make Your Relocation Easier  

Relocating is a big project. Whether it’s just down the street or across the country, moving is a lot of work! Fortunately, there are things you can do to make moving a little less stressful and less time-consuming.

By choosing the right moving company, packing early, decluttering before packing, and doing other activities, you can take some of the burdens of relocating off your shoulders so that you can focus on other things. These tips will make your relocation a success.

1. Choose the Right Moving Company

Not all moving companies are created equal. Look for a moving company that puts customers first, employs skilled, well-trained movers, and has policies in place to protect customers and their possessions. Finding the right moving company can be a challenge. Interview several moving companies before settling on the right company for your needs. Compare bids and call references before making your final decision.

2. Start Packing Early

Packing can take a long time – a lot longer than you might think. The longer you’ve been in one location, the more stuff you’re likely to have built up. So, give yourself at least a few months so you can pack at a leisurely rate. Start by packing rarely used seasonal items and items that you’ve had in storage, then start packing items you use daily as you get closer to your upcoming relocation.

3. Declutter Before Packing

Decluttering makes packing easier! By getting rid of things you don’t need, you cut back on the number of boxes that need to be packed and the amount of time that packing will take. Start decluttering your house as soon as you’ve decided to move. To declutter:

• Go room by room
• Discard stuff you haven’t used in two years or more
• Try selling things or giving things away – throw things away only as a last resort

4. Have Someone Watch Your Pets

If you have a dog or a cat that might get in the way on moving day, have a friend or loved one to watch your pets for you. If you have no one who can manage your pets and you cannot check them into a pet daycare for the day, keep them safely on a leash or in a crate when movers are coming into and out of your house. This can prevent accidents.

5. Have the Kids Play a Role

Do you have children at home? If so, they can help you pack. Asking your children to help you pack gives them an important role that will help them feel more included in the moving activities. It can also reduce the burden on you! Give your children boxes and clear instructions about what they need to pack. Then pair younger children with older children so they can get the job done together.

Hire the Right Moving Company Today

The sooner you find a good moving company, the better. Hire the right moving company to make your relocation a success. When looking for relocation companies, consider their years in business, local reputation, and customer service practices. Hire a company that answers your questions quickly and responds to your inquires politely. Contact us today to make an appointment to discuss your upcoming relocation.

Moving on a Tight Budget – Tips to Save Money

The average cost of a household move can vary from place to place, but you will definitely have a few added expenses involved no matter where you live. When your budget is rather slim, and a move is a must, that doesn’t necessarily mean you can put off the task until you have more money. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you have to move on a shoestring budget. 

1. Cull Your Collection

If one big thing can help you when you need to move on a budget —  trim down whatever you may own that you don’t necessarily have to take with you. The less you have to contend with; the more cost-effective the overall move will be.

Take the time to go through closets, drawers, storage areas, and all the rooms. Pull out anything easily replaced, not likely to offer any value for the years to come, and could be better donated than handled. 

2. Plan Well in Advance

Several expenses associated with a move result from poor planning. A few ways you can save money during your move just by planning in advance include: 

• Organize your work schedule, so you lose as little time as possible
• Create a meal plan to avoid eating out
• Make arrangements with family and friends for help with kids and pets
• Plan to use up the food in your refrigerator and cabinets to save money on take-out

3. Save on Moving Supplies and Use What You Have

Boxes, tape, labels, filler material, bubble wrap are everyday staples needed during a move. Unfortunately, the expenses of these items can add up quickly. So, look for gently used or free boxes through social media. Or your moving company might offer gently used boxes at a reduced rate as well. 

Use items around the house for packing. Use towels and blankets other padded materials to cushion some of the more delicate items. You might still have to supplement your supply, but you’d be surprised how far these everyday materials you already have will go.

4. Check On Utility Reimbursements, Unnecessary Monthly Costs, and Security Deposit Returns

Consider any utility services that you may have paid deposits on when you moved in. If you are not transferring services with those companies, you may be owed a deposit. If you are in a rented place, do what you can to make sure you get your security deposit back.

Also, consider where you could cut costs for the month to make room for moving expenses. For example, if it will be a busy month of packing and preparing, you may not even be using your cable TV or subscription services. The average person spends more than $200 on monthly subscription services. So you could go ahead and disconnect or pause those services to save yourself some money to use for the move. 

Prepare for the Movers

Make sure you have everything packed and ready, empty and prepare your appliances, and clear the walkways. 

Need a free moving quote? Reach out to us today to get a quick and free quote. Then, we can help with your next move. 

How to Move Exotic Pets

Moving with cats and dogs is common. Moving with birds, reptiles, or fish is not.

These pets often need extra care on the road. And you’ll need to know how to do it.

With the right tools, moving might not be as complicated as you think.

Get a Pet Check-Up

For exotic pets, in particular, a vet check-up is an essential first task. Most pets don’t show signs of illness or injury until they are in very bad shape. You don’t want to move a pet in poor health.

When you go to the vet, ask for advice about moving your pet. The vet might have ideas or concerns that you don’t know about. Get a copy of your pet’s records so that you can give them to a good veterinary hospital in your new location.

Prepare a Transport Carrier

Before you can transport your pet, you need a suitable carrier. Depending on the size of your pet, the carrier might be easy to carry. It also might not.

If you’re not sure which exotic pet carrier to buy, don’t worry. The best pet carriers give the pet plenty of room to move and lots of ventilation. They also don’t allow the pet to escape. If you’re still at a loss, ask your vet for recommendations.

In most cases, you’ll want to allow your pet to inspect the carrier and get used to it before moving day. That way, they’ll have an easier time.

Evaluate Environmental Concerns

Your pet might have to live in a different environment in the last days before the move and during transport. So you’ll want to research in advance what you can expect.

Reptiles can’t handle significant temperature changes. So if you’re moving in the middle of a hot summer or cold winter, you’ll want to provide extra heating or cooling.

And don’t forget about noise and lighting. If your pet frightens easily, you might want to choose a carrier that helps you block out most of it.

Research Flight Limitations

Before you choose a flight, make sure that you can safely bring your pets with you. Airlines may have specific limitations for carrying exotic pets on a flight. That’s especially true for snakes and any animals that might pose a danger to other passengers.

Request any necessary paperwork, as well as limitations on carriers. You may find this information online, but it doesn’t hurt to call and ask questions.

Stick to a Routine

Like other pets, exotic pets have regular routines for feeding, activity, and resting. Therefore, you should try to stick to them as much as you can.

If you have nocturnal animals, make an effort to keep their schedules close to normal. For example, you can cover their cages lightly, with plenty of ventilation, if you’re going to be driving while they sleep.

Once you get to your new home, start rebuilding the routine as soon as possible. This will help your pets acclimate faster.

Moving With Your Exotic Pets

Moving with exotic pets is more complicated, but it doesn’t have to be too stressful. For more information about your move or to request a quote, contact us today.

Downsizing Tips When Relocating to a Smaller Home

Moving to a smaller home offers several benefits, from less upkeep to lower utility costs. But downsizing to a smaller home means downsizing the number of items you own, too.

Going through your belongings can be an emotional process. It’s often difficult to decide what to keep and what you can let go of.

Whether you’re an empty nester or simply moving to a space that is easier to manage, these tips will help you downsize before your move.

Give Yourself Time

When it comes to downsizing your belongings, one thing’s for sure: The process will take longer than you think.

That’s why giving yourself plenty of time is essential. If possible, start three months before moving day.

The sooner you start the downsizing process, the better. For example, if you know you’ll be moving within a year or two, downsizing now makes the moving process easier. Choose from several simple methods:

• Closet Hanger Method: Turn all the clothes hangers in your closet, so they’re facing backward. When you wear an item of clothing, turn the hanger the correct way. After six months to a year, get rid of any clothing still hanging on a backward hanger.
• KonMari Method: This popular organizing technique involves going through categories of items — such as clothing, books, or collectibles — and getting rid of anything that no longer brings you joy.
• One Each Day: In the months leading up to your move, get rid of one item each day. Alternatively, donate the same number of items as the day of the month. For instance, get rid of seven articles on the seventh of the month and 14 things on the fourteenth.

Clear Out Rooms You Won’t Have

Think about the rooms you’ll have in your new home, as compared to the rooms you have now. For example, if you’re moving from a four-bedroom home to one with only two bedrooms, or you are moving from a house with a garage to one without, you’ll need to downsize and accommodate the difference.

Measure your new space, so you’ll know exactly what will fit and what won’t. For example, if that oversized sofa won’t squeeze in your new living room, there’s no reason to move it.

Making hard choices about keeping is easier when you’ve got concrete numbers to guide your decisions.

Set Downsizing Ground Rules

If you’re having trouble getting rid of stuff, set some ground rules.

Create four categories:

• Keep: Work backward, thinking about what you’ll need in your new life
• Sell: Make some money for your move by selling items at a garage sale or online
• Recycle or Trash: Items that can’t be donated can be recycled or thrown away
• Memorialize then Donate or Sell: Take digital photos of items with sentimental value, such as figurine collections, then pass them on to a loved one or donate to a worthy organization

Don’t deviate from these categories. When all belongings must fit into one or the other, it’s easier to get rid of what you don’t need.

Above all else, grant yourself the time to go through your items thoughtfully and take breaks when you need to. The less rushed you feel, the less stressful the downsizing process will be.

Moving Help

If you need assistance with the relocation process, contact us for a quote. We can help pack, load, unload, and even unpack for you. See what we can offer.