Moving to a new office or workplace can be daunting, even when your needs make it the correct choice. One of the most overwhelming aspects is continuing with your day job while trying to organise the relocation. How do London’s business owners keep track of everything while ensuring their business operates as usual?
The answer is working with London’s premier business removal and storage companies. Anthony Ward Thomas is renowned for our capacity to work with any company, regardless of size or specialist requirements. Whether it’s moving fine art pieces for world-class art galleries or sensitive medical equipment, we can handle anything and everything. This blog provides a practical moving checklist to help you prepare to move to your next workplace in London.
Contents
- Office Moving Checklist: Your Step-by-Step Guide
- Secure Your Move by Booking a Removal Service in Time
- Benefits of Using a Premium London Office Moving Company
- Self Storage to Stagger the Dates of Your Workplace Relocation
- Business Storage Services: Container and Document Archival
- Digitising Documents to Reduce Paper and Greener Practices
- Additional Property Services for Your Office Relocation
- Five Office-Move Mistakes to Prevent
- FAQs for Office and Workplace Relocations in London
Office Moving Checklist: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s start with a comprehensive step guide, otherwise known as a moving checklist. Like our household checklist, we provide date-specific steps you can use and adapt to your business’s unique needs.
A Month-and-a-Half Before Your Move:
- Record the dimensions of your current office and take some photos if you want to mirror the same layout.
- Use an inventory app to catalogue your business’s assets (furniture, electronic equipment, specialist tools, stock and other items) – record them per department for ease of reference.
- Measure the new office space to plan layouts and furniture placement. To save time, ask your rental agent to do this.
- Order new furniture and schedule its delivery a week before the move.
- List and delegate moving tasks to the relevant departments or teams. We advise using one manager per department/team for oversight and communications.
A Month Before Your Move:
- Seek advice on layouts and furniture arrangements; some suppliers may assist with this.
- Ensure all electronics and phone lines are set up, and confirm if your removal company will handle IT migration – note that Anthony Ward Thomas has the expertise and capacity to do this task.
- Create a strategy for powering down production and which jobs are a priority. There will be some downtime, but our team will reduce this to a minimum level of disruption.
Three Weeks Before Your Move:
- Decide who will be present on moving day; fewer people mean a more efficient move.
- Inform suppliers (e.g., cleaners, delivery services, associate companies) about the moving date.
- Also, discuss your departure with your current utility suppliers and local authorities.
- Start to compile a list of contacts to update – clients, partners, and utility/non-utility suppliers.
- Check your current workflow for production/delivery is on track.
Two Weeks Before Your Move:
- Arrange a mail redirection service with the Post Office.
- Start decluttering your office to remove items you rarely or never use.
- Check facilities (e.g., kitchen) at the new premises to ensure they are operational.
One Week Before Your Move:
- Arrange moving box delivery or book a packing service with your removal company.
- Schedule a final cleaning of the old office if your landlord requires it.
- Note that Anthony Ward Thomas offers both services.
- Touch base with your moving company to ensure everything is on track and you’re ready for the big move.
Final Days Before Your Move:
- Another final check with your moving company and rental agents (current and new workplace).
- Send final meter readings to your utility providers and double-check communications have gone out to your contact list.
- Final review of your moving day with the department/team leads to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Secure Your Move by Booking a Removal Service in Time
While every stage of your office removal is crucial, adequate time is key to any successful office or workplace move. Ultimately, you win or lose the day by allowing yourself enough time to prepare.
Time Your Relocation
It’s important to schedule early to secure a reputable provider as soon as possible. We recommend at least six weeks before the relocation. However, we recommend a longer time for complicated relocations or large corporations—typically three to six months.
Google Ratings & Accreditation
Key features to look for in an office moving company are accreditation and plenty of five-star ratings on Google. There are other rating websites, such as Trustpilot, but Google is the most trustworthy platform. An internal quality policy and BAR (British Association of Removers) is recommended, in addition to being part of high-profile collectives like the Master Removers Group.
Benefits of Using a Premium London Office Moving Company
As you gain a more realistic understanding of the costs of relocating to a new workplace, you will become more aware of them. One expense will be the move, which we will cover in this section.
Discount vs Value for Money
We won’t beat around the bush—working with higher-quality moving companies does cost more. The general rule of thumb is that you get what you pay for, so working with bargain-basement removal providers comes with more risk—you never know what to expect.
The Anthony Ward Thomas team has a plethora of examples when we have to fill in for businesses at the last minute because of absent movers! Working with professionals from the start helps you avoid this situation.
A Premium Service
So, what’s the main difference between a premium service and a standard moving service? For starters, we create a thorough strategy from start to finish, including sending regular prompts and reminders. We streamline the process with professional oversight and experienced staff, covering every eventuality and potential add-on service.
Our customers have confidence they can delegate tasks to us because we’re experts in removal and storage, reducing stress and workload for your team.
Self Storage to Stagger the Dates of Your Workplace Relocation
In this section, we’ll discuss how moving non-essentials into storage reduces clutter during the transition. While it’s often better to do everything in one stage, staggered relocations have advantages for minimising downtime. Let’s consider how storage solutions help pack directly on your moving day for efficiency.
Streamline Your Relocation by Decluttering
Packing and transporting non-essential items into storage before the move ensures your office space remains functional and stress-free during the transition. A credible moving company like Anthony Ward Thomas can also pack directly from your storage unit on your moving day.
Temporary Storage for Phased Moves
Storage breaks down the relocation process into manageable stages, giving your team time to adapt and ensure smooth operations. You control every aspect of your relocation, including a safety net for possible hiccups.
Enhanced Organisation During the Move
You can use storage to separate and categorise items (e.g., office furniture, electronics, documents), making unpacking and setting up at the new location quicker and more efficient. We also recommend using an inventory app to save this information in a logical order.
Ideal Solution for Overlapping Leases
If your move-in and move-out dates don’t perfectly align, self storage provides a secure place to keep items until your new office is ready. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your work assets are safe and secure until any delays are resolved.
Safeguard Valuable Equipment
You won’t find a safer place for your office and work items than storage facilities with robust security features, such as 24/7 surveillance, to protect high-value office assets during relocation.
Customisable Storage Options
By working with our team, you’ll enjoy flexible storage unit sizes and durations to suit your specific needs, whether you require short-term storage for a few weeks or a long-term solution for surplus office items.
Business Storage Services: Container and Document Archival
One thing that might surprise you is how many companies continue using off-site storage after the move. That’s because it’s convenient. There are various other types of storage, such as archiving critical documents in secure containers to safeguard records. Storage creates more workplace space for productivity and flexibility.
Off-Site Storage for Sensitive Records
By storing them in secure, climate-controlled facilities, you can have confidence that your business’s critical documents are protected from damage, theft, or misplacement. You’ll also meet compliance and regulatory requirements for document retention while freeing up valuable on-site office space.
Easier Document Retrieval
One unsung benefit of organised storage solutions, such as labelled containers or digital indexing, is quickly accessing archived files when needed. Business storage can be used for items like furniture, IT hardware, and seasonal supplies, keeping them safe until needed.
Customised Storage Solutions for Diverse Needs
Temporarily store excess inventory or equipment, providing flexibility for growing or downsizing your business without immediate investment in larger premises. Choose tailored options such as fireproof containers, temperature-controlled units, or document shredding services for a comprehensive storage strategy.
Digitising Documents to Reduce Paper and Greener Practices
While you’re organising your relocation, it makes sense to adopt greener practices by digitising physical records. Some benefits include faster retrieval, easier sharing, and reduced reliance on cloud storage. Likewise, digital documents are a backup solution for critical files during the move.
Cost savings and Improved Data Protection
Digital documents reduce the need for filing cabinets and storage spaces by transitioning to digital records. You can also add encryption and secure access controls to safeguard sensitive information in digital formats.
Enhanced Collaboration and Recovery Features
Digital backups allow team members to access and share documents remotely, improving efficiency and reducing move-related delays. They also ensure business continuity if physical documents are damaged or lost during relocation.
Eco-friendly Practices to Support Sustainability Goals
Digital documents minimise paper usage, lower environmental impact, and align with corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives. Digital indexing systems categorise and retrieve files quickly, saving time and effort.
Additional Property Services for Your Office Relocation
When we highlight our comprehensive range of services, it’s not about peacocking (although we’re proud of them). For us, it’s all about providing a service that encompasses everything businesses need, which includes fixing issues in your current or new workplace (repairs and maintenance), professional cleaning services for old premises or pre-move preparation, and specialist services such as crate hire, IT migration, and packaging materials.
Tailored Repairs for Customised Office Spaces
While you hope your new office or building is in tip-top condition, you may encounter issues during or after unpacking. Our team can address specific maintenance, such as painting, carpet replacement, or electrical fixes, to meet your new office’s requirements.
Post-Move Cleaning Services
Our cleaning professionals can ensure the new premises are spotless and ready for staff to begin work immediately after relocation. Similarly, we can responsibly dispose of or recycle unwanted furniture, equipment, or waste through eco-friendly disposal or donation channels.
Specialist Services:
IT Migration: ensure seamless integration of computers, servers, and network systems for minimal downtime.
Crate Delivery and Collection for Packing: Rent durable, stackable crates to protect office equipment and documents during the move.
Professional Packing and Unpacking: Rely on trained movers to pack delicate equipment, label items for quick identification, and unpack efficiently at the new site.
Five Office-Move Mistakes to Prevent
- Skipping backups: Back up essential data before equipment is disconnected.
- Leaving planning too late: Confirm access, parking, lift restrictions and responsibilities at both premises.
- Assuming insurance covers everything: Check what the removals company covers and whether specialist equipment requires separate protection.
- Failing to brief staff: Give teams clear deadlines, labelling instructions and first-day arrangements.
- Not checking the new layout: Measure access routes and confirm furniture will fit before moving day.
Complete these checks alongside the timeline above. For professional planning, IT coordination and relocation support, see our London office removals service.
FAQs for Office and Workplace Relocations in London
What should I consider when hiring an office removal company?
Look for accreditations like the British Association of Removers (BAR), excellent Google reviews, and membership in trusted collectives like the Master Removers Group. Ensure the company has experience handling office relocations, including IT migration and secure document storage.
How far in advance should I book a removal service for my office move?
For small to medium-sized businesses, book at least six weeks in advance. Larger corporations or complex relocations should aim for three to six months of lead time to ensure availability and thorough planning.
How can I minimise downtime during an office move?
Start with a detailed moving checklist, delegate tasks to team leads, and work with a premium removal company to streamline logistics. Use staggered relocations, self storage, and IT migration services to keep essential operations running.
Can I use storage services during my office relocation?
Yes, self storage is ideal for decluttering, storing non-essentials, and bridging the gap between move-out and move-in dates. You can also use business storage to archive documents or secure surplus office equipment.
What are the benefits of digitising documents before a move?
Digitisation reduces physical storage needs, supports sustainability, and ensures faster retrieval and sharing of records. It also provides a backup solution, protecting sensitive information during the move.
Do removal companies offer additional services like cleaning or repairs?
Many premium removal companies, including Anthony Ward Thomas, provide add-on services like professional cleaning, repairs, IT migration, and crate hire to simplify your move.
How do I prepare my team for an office relocation?
Communicate timelines, assign team leaders for coordination, and delegate specific tasks like decluttering and inventory checks. Encourage staff to pack personal items and organise their workstations in advance.
What if my move-in and move-out dates don’t align?
Storage solutions are available to store office equipment, furniture, and documents temporarily. Choose a secure facility with flexible durations and robust security features.
How do I ensure sensitive documents are secure during the move?
Use off-site storage with climate control and secure access or digitise and encrypt critical files. Choose a company that offers tailored solutions like fireproof containers and organised document archiving.
Are professional packing services worth it for an office relocation?
Absolutely. Professional packers ensure that delicate equipment and important documents are securely packed and efficiently labelled for easy unpacking at the new site.
How can a premium removal service make my move smoother?
Premium companies offer comprehensive planning, experienced staff, and tailored services, such as IT setup, post-move cleaning, and proactive updates, to reduce stress and downtime.
Premium-Level Office Removals with Anthony Ward Thomas
We hope this blog was informative and that you feel more confident about tackling your upcoming office relocation. The office moving checklist in this blog will keep you on track, and we’re also here to make things smoother. All successful workplace moves start with timely preparation, so start today by discussing your move with our team.
We highly recommend using a reputable moving company like Anthony Ward Thomas. You can vet us by checking reviews from current and past customers. We go above and beyond for every job, have full industry accreditation, and have a quality policy.
Click here to start an initial assessment, and we’ll send you a free quote. For more information, visit the blog section of our website, where you can find free tips and FAQs.