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Image courtesy of Pixabay
Guest Article by: Jim McKinley
Whether you’ve outgrown a space or simply need a change, sometimes it’s necessary to move your business from one location to another, which often includes selling and purchasing a new home as well. Don’t let the move scare you. With a bit of preparation, things should run smoothly, and you can move to your new space with minimal disruptions. Read on for some helpful tips:
Timeline
One of the first things to do when getting ready to move your business – and your home – is to create a timeline. This helps everyone involved know what to expect and keeps things on track. MindManager notes that a simple way to do this is to create a process map. Begin by establishing your goals, then think about each step required, and put it all in order. Not only does this make the moving process clear for your employees, but you can also provide information to your clients and vendors for when they can expect things to happen.
Communication
Let everyone involved with the business know about the upcoming move. You may need to let them know the dates your business will be closed for operations, when mailing addresses need to be updated, and when any sales might take place prior to the move. Entrepreneur magazine points out that you should update your information on mailers and advertisements, social media, and your website. If you plan to feature your new location graphically with photos of the storefront or inside the business, it’s important to format them accordingly. Fortunately you can resize images online quickly and for no cost using a tool that allows you to change the dimension of any digital photo. This will come in handy when you include your new location in all your communication channels.
Get new business cards that display your new address and contact information. You can even use a simple pre-made template and add the images, colors, and fonts of your choice to make sure you have something to hand out with your accurate new information.
Legal Requirements
When you move your business, you may have some legal requirements to deal with. Any permits or licenses need to be updated with your new address information. If you’re moving to a new state, you likely need to transfer or start a business entity in that location. You can handle this yourself, but online formation services make this simple and help you obey specific laws in each state without needing to pay high fees to a lawyer for help. Check state and city or local requirements for your new location because procedures and regulations vary.
Anticipate the Unexpected
During a move, whether across the street or across the country, there are always hiccups. Have a plan in place to handle potential problems, such as a machine breaking or inventory being damaged. Exactly how to prepare depends on your business.
One good idea is to build up some excess inventory before the move in case of damages, so you can continue conducting sales during the relocation. It’s also prudent to have insurance on any costly items that are being moved. Then, if there’s an issue, they can be replaced relatively easily.
You may choose to hire a professional moving company to make sure things go smoothly. After all, moving things is their everyday business, and they have the tools and experience to do it safely.
Celebrate Your Success
Once you’ve followed these tips and successfully moved your business, it’s time to celebrate! A grand reopening or moving sale can get customers in your new location excited for your business and help grow your customer base. Congratulate your employees on a job well done, and look forward to continued success.
Real estate pro Susan De Leon of Coldwell Banker Realty in Navarre, Florida, provides the most professional, courteous and efficient service while making it an enjoyable experience for all from start to finish. Reach out today for more info! 850-449-0647
