Key things to consider when moving office

Moving office - a stressful and complex time for any business. Where to move to, when to move and how to move are just three of the major aspects which run through any business' mind before committing to the dreaded relocation. While we don't disagree that your office move will be stressful, we do feel that if you consider all the aspects before you move, you're much more likely to have a happy, healthy, long-term relationship with your new office. 

Of course some of the major things which you'd bound to have thought about include transport links, relocation costs and office fees but there are other aspects which you may feel are not so important now but could prove to be vital in helping your staff and business to settle into their new office. 

1. Car parking: This might sound obvious but you'd be surprised at how many businesses succumb to the wrath of their staff when they arrive at their new office only to find there's nowhere to park; cue endless early morning car park space searches and lots of annoyed local residents. If you do choose to move to an office without a car park then let your staff know; this way they can scope out local car parks before their first day in the new office. 

2. Office management: Again, this might sound obvious but it often gets overlooked. If the office is under "traditional management" enquire as to whether there are any serviced facilities available e.g. cleaning or internet. This could save you money in the long term and could help to build a great relationship with your new landlord. If you develop a good relationship, there's a chance you could negotiate excellent terms when you come to renew your office lease.

3. Kitchen facilities: If there's nowhere for your staff to make a brew or to chill their sandwiches, you know there's going to be trouble! Make sure both the office kitchen and bathroom facilities are adequate for your staff - they're your staff so you should know their needs by now!

4. Proximity: As well as transport links, you need to consider your office's proximity to other important locations such as the pub and the supermarket. A cheap office in a business centre is all well and good but if it's in the middle of nowhere then you could have a problem!

5. Design: The design of the office might be perfect for you now but what happens when you expand? You need to consider your future needs as well as your current needs. If you fail to think about this, you could find yourself moving again in the next couple of years or even months. 

These are just a few of the things which are worth considering when you think about moving office. If you think outside the box and consider even the smallest of details, you're much more likely to be content in your new office for the considerable future. Use the moving office checklists for more details.