I’m Thinking About Moving My Business. Where Do I Start?

The first thing you need to do is decide if moving is right for you:

  • Why are we moving?

    There can be many motivating factors behind a business’ decision to move. It’s important to have a clear idea of the reasons behind relocation, so that you can avoid the “grass is always greener” effect and stay focused throughout any challenges that may arrive. The most common reasons for relocation are work force and labor issues, the need for improved facilities and equipment, the desire to increase cash flow or lower costs, and the drive to improve work/life balance. When it comes to a new commercial space, location matters. Commute times and employee satisfaction all have to be carefully considered to make the right move.

  • How will this move benefit the business and its future?

    A new location can bring a variety of benefits to your business. Moving is an opportunity to grow and improve in areas that need attention. New methodologies for team efficiency and morale can be implemented in a way that may have been difficult at your previous location. Open floor plans, improved break areas, and acoustically-designed meeting rooms have become important elements of modern office locations.

High foot traffic and high visibility locations are important for retail or restaurant businesses. Access for large vehicles or trucks, proper ventilation systems, or more space might be important for an expanding industrial business.

Many of the reasons for moving that we explored above apply here. Just make sure any potential new space checks off all the boxes on your requirements. Consider all of the benefits that a new location can bring to your business, and find the space that meets your needs the best.

  • What are the drawbacks of moving?

    Though moving can open up many opportunities, it’s not without risks. The most common mistakes that businesses make are rushing the decision to move or the moving process, failing to plan for future expansion, and ignoring factors that affect quality of life. One should consider any potential drawbacks that can come with this new location in the future. Keep in mind that some issues take time to crop up — do you see your company still thriving here in two years?

  • These are some other questions to consider:

  • Can we afford to move?

  • Can we afford not to move?

  • Can we afford to lose some business during the transition?

  • Is now a good time to move? Are we gearing up for the holiday season or other period of increased production or sales?

  • If we are thinking about moving to a far away location, can we afford to lose some personnel who choose not to relocate?

  • Is the company in a healthy state to move? Is there a history of indecisiveness, lack of leadership, high turnover, or other morale-related problems?

A company needs a measure of stability to be able to handle a big move. Your business should be able to weather the change of locations and the logistical challenges this can bring. Enthusiasm about the new location is important, but it’s important to be pragmatic as well.