Warehouse relocations can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing process. The sheer logistics of the move are enough to send anyone into a cold-sweat. Here at Storage Ideas, we can help you do it quickly and efficiently. In this article, we’ll take a look at some tips to ensure your relocation goes smoothly.
Inventory
Moving house is one thing. Warehouse relocation is on a completely different scale. For this reason, it’s essential that you have a clear and up-to-date inventory. You’ll need to keep track of what’s moving where, who’s taking which items, and exactly how much stock there is.
Compiling your inventory is also the perfect time to re-evaluate your storage equipment. If your storage equipment needs repairs or replacement, now is the perfect time to decide whether you wish to take it with you or replace it with to suit your requirements at the new facility.
It is also important that you note the condition of your stock while making your inventory. If something is damaged, take a note. This way you will know what stock (if any) has been damaged by the move.
Workers
Keep track of the workers that are helping you move. There will be a lot more people than usual, making relocations a prime time for accidents to occur. Ensure that you know who should be in which area, and at what time.
Be aware, however, that this risk is heightened when the workers are not from a trusted and qualified business. You are much less likely to encounter accidents or loss if the business is verified and trustworthy.
Plan
You wouldn’t remodel your kitchen without drawing up a plan, so why would you approach warehouse relocation without one? Ensure that prior to moving; you have created a comprehensive plan. When creating your plan, take into consideration just how much work goes into relocation, and allow for some extra time. Your workers are human, not robots, and may need breaks.
Also remember to account for not just packing, but also unpacking and new warehouse set-up. There may be supplies that require elaborate setting up, or racks that will need to be re-configured. The warehouse space itself may be different, and workers need time to adjust to that.
Don’t stress if not everything goes according to plan. Life rarely does. Just ensure that the plan is there for peace of mind, and so that you can have a rough idea of the whole process.
Stay Safe
Workers
Throughout the relocation, ensure that safety is maximised. Let the workers know that it is recommended they wear the appropriate safety attire, and place signage around both warehouses (new and old) so that the process can be smoother. If there are risk areas, make sure to point them out to the workers in a debrief. The plan is to relocate with as little loss and injury as possible.
Stock
To ensure the safety of your stock, consult to ensure appropriate packing equipment is used. Some of your stock has different needs, and this should be taken into consideration. By consulting beforehand, you’ll ensure that as little stock will be damaged during the move as possible.
Need Help?
Warehouse relocation can be stressful, but with the right help, this stress can be greatly reduced. If you would like Storage Ideas to assist with the design and relocation of your storage equipment and pallet racking , or if you have any questions about this article or any of the storage products we offer, feel free to contact us.