Relocating a business in New Berlin is an exciting opportunity, but it definitely comes with its fair share of pressure. Being in the heart of Waukesha County with easy access to the interstate makes it a great spot for growth, but a commercial move only works if it doesn’t disrupt your revenue or your team. The goal is to get your new location up and running as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Start With a Real Timeline
A business move isn’t something you can knock out in a couple of weeks. For most local companies, you really want to start planning four to six months out. If you have specialized equipment, you might even need a year. Having that extra time means you aren’t rushing through lease negotiations or IT setups. The best way to start is to pick the day you need to be open and then work backward to build your schedule.
Understand Local Approvals Before You Sign a Lease
New Berlin has its own set of rules for things like zoning and permits. Before you sign a lease, it’s a good idea to check in with the city’s Community Development Department. They can help you make sure your business fits the space and that things like signage or parking won’t be an issue later. It’s much better to know these things early than to hit a snag right before you move in.
Pro Tip: Ask your broker for a list of every city approval you’ll need. It’s much easier to handle these one by one before you’re officially moved in.
Plan the IT Cutover Like a Separate Project
Servers, phones, and workstations are often the trickiest part of a move. A single missed cable can stop your business in its tracks. Talk to your internet provider at least a month early to schedule your install, as they often have long lead times. Make sure everything is backed up the night before, and have a plan for your phones during the transition. It helps to have one person dedicated just to the tech side of the move.
Communicate With Employees Early and Often
Your employees are likely already wondering what the move means for their commute or their daily routine. Keep them in the loop as much as you can. If possible, let them walk through the new space before move day. Being open about the changes builds trust and can actually turn the move into a morale booster. For extra support, the Waukesha County Business Alliance is a great place to connect with other local owners who have been through the same thing.
Pro Tip: Keep a shared document where employees can ask questions. It saves you from answering the same thing multiple times and keeps everyone on the same page.
Handle the Administrative Change of Address Properly
Don’t forget the paperwork! Update your address with the Department of Revenue, the IRS, and your bank. You’ll also want to update your Google Business Profile and your website so customers don’t end up at your old building. Set up your mail forwarding at least two weeks before you leave so nothing gets lost in the shuffle.
Protect Specialty Equipment During the Move
If you have specialized machinery or high-value tech, you need movers who know how to handle them. A standard office move is one thing, but moving production equipment or server racks requires a bit more care. Look for a team that offers special product moving to keep your warranties intact and your gear safe. Have the movers walk through your current site early so there are no surprises on move day.
Move Your Business the Right Way
Boulevard Relocation Services has been helping businesses in New Berlin and southeastern Wisconsin move since 1903. Our commercial team can help with everything from the initial planning to the final setup. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s get your business moving.