Relocating a business isn’t just about moving desks and filing cabinets—it’s a major transition that can affect your operations, employees, clients, and bottom line. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger office or shifting into a more strategic location, preparing for a commercial relocation requires careful planning, organization, and the right team.
At SQ Moving Company, we’ve helped countless businesses throughout Los Angeles relocate efficiently and with minimal disruption. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for a smooth and successful commercial relocation.
1. Start Planning Early
The earlier you begin the planning process, the smoother your move will be. Ideally, you should give yourself 3 to 6 months of lead time, depending on the size of your business.
Key early steps:
-
Appoint a move coordinator or internal team.
-
Define your budget and timeline.
-
Create a master checklist with milestones.
2. Notify Employees and Stakeholders
Communication is critical. Let your staff and clients know about the move as early as possible so they have time to prepare.
Things to communicate:
-
The reason for the move
-
The new location and expected move date
-
How operations may be impacted (if at all)
-
New parking, access, or commute details
Keeping your team in the loop helps reduce anxiety and ensures a smoother transition for everyone.
3. Evaluate Your New Space
Before moving day, do a thorough walk-through of your new location to assess:
-
Office layout and workspace planning
-
IT and electrical requirements
-
Storage and furniture needs
-
Accessibility and compliance (ADA, etc.)
Consider bringing in an interior designer or workspace planner if you’re scaling up or restructuring your departments.
4. Create an Inventory of Equipment and Assets
Make a detailed list of everything your company owns—from desks and chairs to computers, printers, servers, and sensitive documents.
Tag items for:
-
Relocation
-
Donation or disposal
This is also a great time to declutter and get rid of old equipment you no longer use.
Need help packing? Check out our professional packing services.
5. Back Up Your Data
Before you unplug anything, make sure all digital assets are securely backed up. If you’re moving servers or sensitive tech infrastructure, coordinate with your IT team or vendor well in advance.
Tips:
-
Create both local and cloud-based backups.
-
Consider downtime requirements for any system migrations.
-
Use protective materials and anti-static packaging during transit.
6. Hire a Moving Company For Commercial Relocation
Unlike residential moves, commercial relocation requires specific expertise, insurance, and equipment. That’s why working with a reliable commercial moving company in Los Angeles is essential.
At SQ Moving, we specialize in:
-
Office relocations for small and large businesses
-
Handling of sensitive equipment, files, and electronics
-
After-hours or weekend moves to minimize downtime
-
COI (Certificate of Insurance) for high-rise buildings or business parks
We help businesses avoid costly delays and get back to work—fast.
7. Update Your Business Information
Once your move date is confirmed, make a list of where you’ll need to update your address, including:
-
Google Business Profile, Yelp, and online directories
-
Business licenses and legal documents
-
Utility companies, internet providers, and mail forwarding
-
Stationery, business cards, and your website
This ensures that clients and partners can find you without interruption.
8. Create a Moving Day Plan
A well-organized moving day can prevent unnecessary downtime and confusion.
Your plan should include:
-
A floor plan of the new office with labeled zones
-
Assigned team members for supervising movers
-
A clear labeling system for all boxes and equipment
-
IT setup plan for immediate connectivity
Pro tip: Pack essentials like phones, routers, and office supplies separately so you can resume operations quickly.
9. Minimize Downtime
If your business relies on phones or computers, even a few hours of downtime can lead to lost revenue. Here’s how to reduce disruptions:
-
Schedule the move after business hours or on a weekend.
-
Keep your phone line active through virtual systems or call forwarding.
-
Set up the IT network and phones first in the new space.
Work with your movers to prioritize high-importance areas like the front desk, servers, and management offices.
10. Do a Post-Move Check and Celebrate
After the move, take time to ensure everything is in place and functioning:
-
Test phone lines, internet, and security systems
-
Distribute updated contact/location info to clients and vendors
-
Schedule a post-move team meeting or welcome lunch
-
Celebrate your successful commercial relocation with your team!
Recognizing the effort your employees and movers put in will help boost morale and mark a fresh new chapter for your business.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a commercial relocation in Los Angeles takes time, teamwork, and professional guidance. But with the right strategy and support, you can relocate your business with confidence—and minimal disruption.
At SQ Moving Company, we offer tailored business relocation services to meet the unique needs of local businesses. From planning and packing to after-hours transitions and secure transportation, our team is here to make your move seamless.
Need help with an upcoming commercial relocation?
Contact SQ Moving Company today for a custom quote and expert support from Los Angeles’ trusted moving professionals.