Warehouse moving involves finding a new facility, dismantling equipment, organizing and packing inventory, and transporting and installing equipment, all while keeping operations running smoothly. Here’s a practical guide to help you prepare for it.

Common Problems in Warehouse Moves:

• Insufficient planning and budgeting
• Construction and permitting delays
• Inaccurate inventories before and after the move
• Underestimating time for installing and testing new systems
• Insufficient manpower planning

Essential Steps for a Successful Warehouse Move:

1. Project Management
   • Opening a new warehouse takes 3 to 6 months from lease signing to opening. New WMS and technology can extend this by six months. Ensure sufficient resources for planning, budgeting, and task management.
2. Warehouse Space Planning
   • Plan the layout considering space needs by department (e.g., receiving, staging, packing), product flow, peak period requirements, storage media, aisle width, and rack designs.
3. Labor Planning
   • Estimate the time required to plan and open the new center while staying operational. Plan for overtime at both locations. Consider inventory transfer, employee transitions, equipment packing, and space restoration.
4. Local Planning and Permitting Compliance
   • Ensure familiarity with local building codes and required permits for outfitting and occupying the new warehouse. Gather necessary information for permit acquisition.
5. Inventory Management
   • Liquidate aged or dead inventory to avoid moving unnecessary items. Conduct a physical inventory at the SKU level, shrink wrap pallets, and label them for accurate stock location in the new facility.
6. Re-routing Deliveries and Returns
   • Reroute products on purchase orders to the new facility. Notify vendors, update paperwork, and change the address for returns and transportation management.
7. Racking and Material Handling Planning
   • Evaluate the feasibility and costs of moving and reinstalling existing racking and material handling equipment. Plan for short-term rental of material handling equipment if needed.
8. Transportation Planning
   • Plan inventory transportation, including the number of trailers needed and transportation costs. Negotiate contracts early to secure commitments.
9. WMS and Technology Installation
   • Allocate time for implementing and testing the WMS, automation, and technology in the new facility. Proper planning ensures timely execution.
10. Employee Communication

• Regularly communicate with employees involved in the move. Provide new procedures for various tasks and keep all stakeholders informed.

Questions to Ask Before Your Warehouse Move:

• What benefit does this move provide to our business?
• Who needs to know about our move?
• What role will each team member play in the move?
• Will we need to pause operations during the move? If so, for how long?
• Should we move our old equipment or start fresh?
• Does the new warehouse have enough space for our current needs and future growth?
• Do you have a warehouse relocation checklist?

Phases of a Warehouse Moving Plan:

1. Equipment Teardown
   • Dismantle and prepare equipment for transportation.
   • Decide if you need professional help for safe teardown.
2. Equipment Relocation
   • Plan logistics for moving equipment.
   • Ensure you have the necessary tools, licenses, and permits.
3. Equipment Installation
   • Install equipment in the new warehouse.
   • Consider professional help to ensure proper installation.

Steps to Move a Warehouse:

1. Arrange for Equipment Relocation
   • Plan early and book warehouse movers in advance.
2. Organize Your Inventory
   • Trim unnecessary items to reduce moving costs.
3. Plan Work Schedules
   • Prepare employees for downtime and relocation tasks.
4. Consider the Layout of the New Warehouse
   • Optimize equipment placement for productivity.
5. Think About the Future
   • Ensure the new warehouse accommodates future growth.
6. Communicate with Customers and Vendors
   • Inform stakeholders about your new location and update business listings.
7. Get the Info on the New Location
   • Familiarize yourself with keys, security codes, parking, and internet access.
8. Tear Down Your Warehouse Equipment
   • Plan the timing to minimize productivity loss.
9. Install Your Equipment in the New Warehouse
   • Ensure proper and safe installation.
10. Get to Work

• Start operations and establish new routines in the new location.

In summary, detailed planning, clear communication, and adequate resources are essential for a successful warehouse move.

Ready to Simplify Your Business Move? Contact Business Moving Group today for a free consultation! Visit us at businessmoving.com for helpful resources and to learn more about our services.