When it comes to commercial moves and office moves, at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Canada, we understand your needs. Business-to-business clients value three major things: a job completed on time as promised, on budget and with no disruption to “business as usual.”
These moves may involve professional offices, retail stores, educational facilities, or other types of organizations. The focus on budget and timing is understandable, and a good mover will work toward a seamless transition from point A to point B.
The first thing to establish is a chain of communication. Usually, this means establishing a move coordinator for the client on our side. On the client’s side, someone should be set up as a consultant dedicated to the move. This professional works with the moving company’s client coordinator to shepherd the logistics.
Each business move is different, and it’s up to professional movers to determine what equipment is necessary. For example, the mover may need to use moving box dollies, elevator door jams, carpet protectors and the like. They should also have special anti-static bubble wrap for computers and electronic equipment.
Another element the coordinator handles is connecting with the appropriate commercial/office management company in order to find out about, and adhere to, rules and guidelines for elevator usage, truck parking, etc.
Interestingly, office moves are often done with moving totes rather than moving boxes. Good moving box labeling helps to achieve successful residential moves, and in a business move, it takes on even greater importance. We want to make sure each person’s office items are transferred to the appropriate office at the final destination. Another big help is to have floor plans for the offices at both ends of the move, which of course aids in labeling what goes where, as well as the order in which the items are packed and taken off the truck.
Often times a professional moving company will do these commercial moves after hours and on weekends to minimize disruption during usual work hours. If the move has to be completed during business hours, it is best to limit employee participation as much as possible. The goal is to make things as easy as possible on employees and customers.
In the end, the key to a successful office move is to develop a plan with clear and well-defined goals. Having someone on each end that is responsible and accountable can help with that. Those booking a commercial move or an office move will want to check into the moving company’s track record and look at any testimonials from customers.
In any kind of move, everyone should be happy when the last box is put into place. The best way to ensure this level of satisfaction is to plan ahead, be organized and keep the lines of communication open.