Published April 25, 2022
Author: Suzie Wilson
Many people would agree that moving to a new home is one of life’s most stressful experiences. But moving your business might have it beat. Moving your business to a new location—without experiencing downtime and losing productivity—involves careful planning. Following a clear checklist, considering your options carefully, and working with the right people will ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible!
Hire a Commercial Real Estate Broker
Before you start looking for your new business location, get in touch with a commercial real estate broker like ComServ Realty. A commercial broker will offer invaluable assistance whether you’re looking to buy or lease space. First, your broker will help you sift through listings to find a home for your business. They’ll work to ensure your new space meets your requirements in terms of location, amenities, size, and layout. Once you find a great place, your broker will negotiate lease terms to help you save money on property improvements, lease rates, and additional amenities.
Decide How You’re Going to Move Your LLC
If you’re moving your business to a new state, you have to decide how you’re going to move your LLC—or corporation, depending on how your business is structured. Fast Capital 360 explains that you have a couple of different options when it comes to moving your business. You could dissolve your original LLC and form a new one in your new state, register as a foreign LLC and leave your business intact in your original state, or set up a new LLC that has no legal affiliation with your existing LLC. There are pros and cons to each option, so make sure you do your research! You can access expert support from an online formation service if you want to avoid hiring a lawyer.
Establish Your Moving Budget
Relocating a business can be expensive, especially if you plan on staggering your move and running your business out of two locations for a little while. Establish a moving budget before getting too far into the process. List out all of your expected costs, including things like hiring movers, terminating supplier contracts, and getting insurance coverage for the move. This is also a good opportunity to inventory your physical assets and determine what you’re going to take with you and what you will sell and repurchase. You may want to liquidate old and surplus inventory ahead of time so you can save some money on your move.
Communicate with Everyone Involved
Make a plan to keep your customers, employees, and suppliers in the loop about your move. How is your move going to impact all of these people? Women’s Business Daily explains that you must put your customers at the heart of your moving strategy if you want them to follow your business to your new location. Share your relocation news on your social media platforms early and let your customers know if you’re shifting to new suppliers with your move. Likewise, be sure to notify your employees as early as possible and keep them updated on how this might affect their work.
Hire Reputable Movers
When it comes time to hire movers, be sure to pick a company that understands and cares about the needs of your business. Make sure they’re well versed in the many facets of moving a corporate office or retail business. Do some research into the company to gauge their reliability and find out what steps they take to ensure everything arrives in good condition. For example, Specialized office movers should come equipped with teams and protective tools designed to move bulky office equipment safely.
While moving your business might not be easy, it doesn’t have to be a stressful nightmare. Plan out your moving timeline, work with reputable professionals, and keep everyone in the loop. As long as you have a solid plan and good attention to detail, your move should be a success!
Are you looking for a commercial real estate broker? ComServ Realty can help you find the perfect new place for your business in Anchorage, AK. Contact us today so we can discuss your needs! 907-770-2545