Moving Your Business in the Winter: What You Need to Know

The winter months can be stressful for a multitude of reasons: holiday parties with friends and family, treacherous travel conditions, the list goes on. For those who find “moving my business” atop their winter to-do list, it can become an additional stress, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some things to keep in mind if you plan to relocate when the weather outside is frightful.

Safety

Winter can mean icy roads, slick sidewalks and blustery winds, so ensuring that your employees are safe during the moving process is key. Simple measures such as putting down rugs or tarp near entrances and exits, packing along extra towels and turning to plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes can help ensure the moving process is a smooth and safe one.

Finances

Business blog “Complore” recently put together a list that highlights some of the benefits of relocating your business in the winter. One of their top reasons was cost: they found that making the move in the colder months can help you save up to 40% on moving costs. There are plenty of things that factor into this:

The majority of business and homeowners dream of moving in warmer, more comfortable conditions, meaning companies can offer more flexible scheduling and accommodation in the winter
Less congestion on area roadways, as well as in and around your new location can help movers finish the job more efficiently
While it’s a good idea to keep the heat on in both your new and old space, there’s no need to crank it up at either location, helping you cut costs

Planning

While moving your business in the winter offers a variety of benefits, there can also be plenty of uncertainty. Road conditions may become a problem, snowplows may inconvenience your movers and slick sidewalks could make for tougher moving conditions. Remember to stay flexible, take your time and plan ahead. Just like your movers will, be sure to keep an eye on the forecast, dress accordingly and be prepared to slow down.

Employees

Look at the winter move as a perfect opportunity to bond and connect with your employees. If the forecast calls for wicked winter weather, set up some hot coffee or cocoa for your workers. Be sure to keep your new location nice and comfortable. Offer to help employees set up their equipment and work spaces. The move may not be comfortable for everyone, so do what you can to help them adjust to their new surroundings.