Although there are many things to consider when relocating a business anywhere, a checklist can be helpful, especially for a first-time mover.
Referring to “The Small Company Moving Guide,” by Diane Touleyrou, the Small Business Administration Web site at (www.sba.gov) offers the following:
– Negotiate release of current lease if necessary.
– Reserve new phone numbers or arrange to transfer existing ones.
– Prepare artwork for announcement letter, business cards, stationery and envelopes.
– Get change of address cards from the post office.
– Make appointments with the utility companies for cutting off and hooking up new services.
– Schedule phone installation.
– Design new office space, including use of old furniture or purchase of new furniture.
– Establish criteria for purging files and throwing out old materials.
– Have custom wiring installed for computer/telephone networks.
– Inform current customers of move.
– Arrange for extra help to pack, clean and unpack.
– Arrange for extra help at home for family needs.
The site also offers other things to consider when moving, such as:
– Saving all receipts since moving expenses are tax deductible.
– Using the move as a reason to store or throw away obsolete paperwork.
– Considering the upgrade of equipment such as telephone systems or computer networks.
– Deciding whether or not you want to keep office furniture. (Unwanted office furniture can be donated to charity for a tax deduction.)
– Choosing whether you will do the packing and moving, or whether you will hire professional help.
– Labeling all boxes clearly.
– Ordering new stationery and literature with the company location after the new address, telephone number and official moving date has been finalized.
