The process of moving to a new warehouse can be frenetic, as there are many tasks that must be completed, and it can be difficult to coordinate and keep track. A smooth moving process can lay the groundwork for a more organized and efficient warehouse. This warehouse relocation checklist of necessary tasks will assist you in planning your move into a new warehouse and making the process run more smoothly. The following are the steps for warehouse relocation :

• Select an efficient 3PL partner: One of the first things that you’ll need to do is find a logistics partner for your move. Moving inventory and equipment into a new warehouse can necessitate a significant amount of transportation and logistics resources, making a dependable 3PL partner invaluable.
• Take note of how you allocate labor: Many businesses do not have the luxury of spending operations when moving warehouses, so it is critical to consider how labor is distributed among employees. Ensure that each employee understands their responsibilities during the warehouse move. If your company is still open during the warehouse relocation, a detailed plan for labor allocation will ensure that operations run as smoothly as possible.
• Create and stick to a project plan: Organizing a new warehouse requires careful planning and preparation, so make a detailed plan of action for your new warehouse ahead of time.
• Develop a strategy that addresses all aspects of your supply chain: During a warehouse move, resources may simply not be available to maintain normal operational capacity. In such cases, ensure that all supply chain stakeholders are aware of impending delays and restrictions so that they can plan accordingly.
• Keep lines of communication open: During a warehouse move, the chain of command is also critical. Employees should be able to rely on their direct reports to assist them in problem-solving so that managers above them can focus on larger issues.
• Obtain necessary permits, turn on utilities, and begin mail services: At the very least, make certain that your warehouse has an occupancy permit that has been approved by the fire marshal and building inspector. Make sure to schedule utility turn-ons well in advance of move-in day. Communicate with utility providers ahead of time to establish a timeline for connecting your utilities, and keep in mind that many utilities require a deposit before they will begin services.
• Bring the necessary equipment and supplies: To successfully implement an organization’s strategy, the right tools and materials must be available. That is why it is critical to obtain the proper supplies and equipment for a warehouse move.
• Organize and reduce inventory: A warehouse relocation  is an excellent opportunity to get your inventory lean and organized. Laying the groundwork for effective inventory control now will result in a more usable and efficient inventory system during your company’s most critical periods.
• Obtain vital facility operational information: Every warehouse facility has important information that must be available prior to move-in. The specific types of information you require will vary depending on a variety of factors, including whether your company owns or rents the warehouse.

Do’s and don’ts during warehouse moving and relocation

Dos

• Spend the time necessary to guarantee that you are involved at all stages of the project and that you have control over important choices and deadlines.
• Do your research; there is a wealth of publicly accessible data on available warehouses and development sites.
• Start with the basics of the company. How much room will you need now and in the future? Create a cubic space requirement from the top-line business plan by first converting it to a volume of units and SKUs.
• Assemble your team. Look for ways to supplement your resources because it’s unlikely that your company has enough extras to handle the volume of work that a warehouse move generates.

Don’ts

• Don’t undervalue the disruption that moving physical products can bring about. It always takes longer than you anticipate, and if you want to prevent expensive customer disruption, maintaining stock integrity throughout is essential.
• Don’t miss the opportunity to modify business procedures as part of the move. Do not cut corners. The development, design, and construction of new warehouses are expensive. Sites can be successfully built using tried-and-true procedures; taking shortcuts increases the likelihood that the building will be inappropriate and result in higher post-completion costs.