Relocating your warehouse can be an exciting time. It typically means your business is scaling, or a better opportunity has arisen. However, it can quickly become stressful and complicate things when moving your entire operation, without disrupting operations. That’s why we’ve compiled a step-by-step guide to warehouse relocation. Here, we’ll dive deep into each step of relocating your warehouse and the things to plan for to keep operations running smoothly.
So without further ado, here’s how to complete a warehouse relocation in six simple steps without disrupting operations.
Warehouse Relocation Step #1: Planning and Preparation
Before you take the leap into warehouse relocation, the first step requires much planning and preparation. Not only to be sure that the move makes sense but to ensure you’re prepared to do so cost-effectively and efficiently.
Before making any moves, thoroughly evaluate your current and future warehouse needs. Factors you should consider include -
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Space requirements
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Location
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Accessibility
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The type or nature of the goods you handle
Looking at these factors, you can conduct a cost-benefit analysis to ensure that relocation is the right decision for your business.
Next, create a comprehensive relocation plan. This plan should include -
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Timelines
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Budgets
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Resource allocation
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Risk management strategies
It should also define the roles and responsibilities of your team members to ensure everyone is on the same page. Lastly, find a new space to relocate your warehouse. The most important factors to consider here, are proximity to suppliers, customers, and transportation hubs.
Beyond that, consider your current and future employees by evaluating the local labor market, infrastructure, and regulatory requirements. A well-chosen location can enhance operational efficiency and reduce transportation costs.
Warehouse Relocation Step #2: Inventory Management
To complete a warehouse relocation without disrupting operations, the next step involves managing your current inventory for the move. We’ve broken this step down, into a 3-step process, to make it that much easier.
Conduct an Inventory Audit
Before moving, conduct a detailed inventory audit to identify any excess or obsolete stock. This serves as an opportunity to streamline your inventory and dispose of items that are no longer needed.
Optimize Inventory Levels
Consider adjusting your inventory levels before the move, if possible. Reducing stock can lower moving costs and make the transition more manageable. Collaborate with your suppliers to ensure a steady supply chain during the relocation period. Conversely, speak with customers beforehand to ensure they have what they need before the move occurs.
Organize and Label
Clearly label all inventory items and organize them systematically. Often, color-coded labels, barcodes, or RFID tags can ensure easy identification and tracking. Like any process in a warehouse, proper labeling will help speed up the unpacking process and maintain inventory accuracy.
Warehouse Relocation Step #3: Logistics
So you’ve been following your plan, have the perfect location to move to, and your inventory is set and ready to go. What’s next? The logistics and transportation of completing the warehouse relocation.
Many operators relocating their warehouses hire experienced warehouse relocation specialists to handle the physical move. Professional movers have the expertise and equipment to safely transport heavy machinery, racking systems, and delicate inventory items. Be sure to check reviews of any companies you receive quotes from, and receive many to compare and contrast.
Next, you’ll coordinate with your moving company to develop a detailed logistics plan. This plan will determine the sequence of moving, transportation routes, and any special handling requirements. The company should also ensure that all necessary permits and insurance are in place, but if you’re moving on your own, be sure you obtain those yourself.
Finally, schedule the move during off-peak periods to minimize disruptions to your operations. If possible, maintain parallel operations at both the old and new locations until the transition is complete. This approach can help prevent delays and ensure a seamless transfer of activities.
Warehouse Relocation Step #4: Implementing Infrastructure
The next part of the warehouse relocation process is implementing new infrastructure at your warehouse. If possible, completing this prior to the move, or during the move is recommended to minimize as much downtime as possible. That includes ensuring the following is completed to prepare the new facility -
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Moving and storing any specialized equipment
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Ensure that the layout is optimized for efficient workflow and storage
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Coordinating security codes and procedures
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Installing and setting up internet access
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Managing location and door protocols
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Setting up parking for employees, visitors, etc.
Relocating your IT infrastructure is a critical component of the move. This should be coordinated with your IT team well before the move to plan servers, network equipment, and communication systems transfer. Test all systems thoroughly before the move to avoid any technical glitches.
Finally, updating your address with all relevant entities, including suppliers, customers, and regulatory bodies is the last step in implementing a new infrastructure. Ensure that your website, marketing materials, and stationery reflect the new address. It even helps to go a step further to notify carriers and logistics partners to prevent delivery errors.
Warehouse Relocation Step #5: Staff and Communication
Your staff is what operates your warehouse day in and day out. So a part of your warehouse relocation plan must include how to train and communicate with them. First and foremost, it can be helpful to designate a relocation coordinator to oversee the entire process.
This individual should have strong project management skills and be capable of handling any issues that arise. The coordinator will serve as the central point of contact and ensure that all aspects of the move are managed effectively.
Next, be sure you’re keeping lines of communication open throughout the relocation process. Regularly update your team on the progress and any changes to the plan, and be open to questions, comments, or concerns.
To ensure the new warehouse location runs as smoothly as the last (or smoother!) provide comprehensive training to your staff on the new warehouse layout, safety procedures, and any changes in workflow. Familiarize them with any new equipment and technology to ensure a smooth transition, and always encourage feedback and address any concerns promptly.
Warehouse Relocation Step #6: Evaluate and Monitor
Ahhh, the move is done. It's time to kick back and relax, right? Not quite yet. Once the warehouse relocation is complete, it’s time to conduct a post-move audit. After the move, conduct a thorough audit to verify that all inventory and equipment have been successfully transferred.
This includes checking for any damage or discrepancies and addressing them immediately. Once complete, update your inventory management system to reflect any changes and the new location.
The first few weeks will be crucial for ironing out any initial kinks. This means, closely monitoring operations during the initial transition phase. Identify any bottlenecks or inefficiencies and take corrective action promptly. Solicit feedback from your staff to identify areas for improvement.
Last but not least - a successful relocation is a significant achievement. Recognize the hard work and dedication of your team by celebrating the transition. A positive gesture can boost morale and reinforce a sense of accomplishment.
The Final Word: Warehouse Relocation Success
It never hurts to call in the experts when it comes to warehouse relocation or renovation. While you may be an expert at managing your operation’s inventory and procedures, BMH is the expert at supplying and designing efficient warehouses.
So, if you’re in the midst of or preparing for a warehouse relocation - getting in touch with BMH is the first step to take.
Learn more about BMH, dive deeper with even more educational resources, or browse our current selection and inventory. Need specialized expertise? Get in touch with our team for warehouse relocation support, and more.
