How to pack and move a retail store?
While relocating a retail store to a more convenient place promises a change for the better, the process itself can be quite the challenge. Still, if you have carefully considered all the pros and cons of such a decision, you are probably ready to put in the work to make it happen. So, let’s see how you ought to pack and move a retail store without losing productivity.
Expanding your small business to new heights does sound enticing. The relocation can also sound rather simple with the help of movers Bedford NH. However, there is one important thing we need to accentuate here. Namely, small businesses and stores stick close to their roots. They thrive on their customers’ trust. This is, after all, one of the major reasons why so many store owners approach this venture with a great deal of fear and apprehension. However, if you have several good reasons for this change, you should, by all means, go for it. With the right mindset and efficient moving plan, you ought to be confident that everything will fall into place.
Here are our four important tips that will help you pack and move a retail store:
1. Liquidate your inventory when you need to pack and move a retail store
As is rather simple to notice, your inventory will most likely be a large part of your relocation. And, the larger the inventory, the more you will have to pay to move it. So, it would be smart to avoid this extra expense on your books. Now, the way to do is to change your approach a bit. As you know, your inventory is actually your capital stored in products. With this in mind, you do not have a financial loss when moving. You simply ought to thin out your inventory prior to relocation by turning it into money.
We suggest that you bundle this with a marketing event. You can organize a store-wide sale that doubles as an advertisement for your new location. The combination of low prices and the prospect of a brand-new retail store will generate excitement amongst customers, and give you double the rewards. In addition, make sure that you invite your customers to join you on your opening of the new space.
2. Restrain from moving the furniture on your own
In certain cases, you can consider having your employees to help out. And they can prove to be of great help if you have a lot of shelving and other heavy furniture. However, you need to keep in mind that they may be restricted to carry up to a certain load. Most jobs require that the staff carries a maximum of 25 pounds. Howbeit, if it is not stated in their hiring contract, they cannot be held accountable to move anything heavier. You should also keep in mind that transporting heavy items puts your employees in harm’s way, especially if they are not protected or qualified to do so.
A great way to circumvent this conundrum is to hire professionals to take care of it. Especially if you are moving a bit further away. Long distance movers Massachusetts will take care of your shelves, peg-boards, and every other piece of furniture you have. Not only are they experts in moving in a safe and time-efficient manner, but they also offer insurance coverage on your valuable goods.
3. Try your best to eliminate down-time
Every commercial move comes with the risk of losing business. However, with smart planning and the right tactic, you can lose the least amount of sales when relocating your retail store. Start with studying your records to learn what weeks or months seem to be the least busy. Target your move date for days in that window of time. You can also speak with your customers, and inform them of the relocation that is approaching. This will help them plan for any shopping they have in mind.
We will also recommend packing up electronics and other delicate tools and equipment the day before the move, if possible. This will allow you to work until the last moment possible. To further eliminate much down-time, find ways to set up shelving and decorations in the new space prior to your moving day. If executed, this will enable you to have just that one moving day off.
4. Prepare your new shop as early as you can
If you can carry the lease for both your current and future store space, you can use the overlapping time to continue your normal work while simultaneously preparing your new shop. Start by setting up your new place with shelving and counters for your cash registers. Then, when you close your current space, you can immediately get to work with moving into the new place. Having everything prepared in this way will allow you to have as smooth a move as possible.
Additional advice that will help you pack and move a retail store
- Hire cleaners to prepare your new space, and take care of your old store once you move out. If you plan to have your employees take care of this, don’t forget to empty the vacuum and steamer. It is also best that you dust before packing shelves and racks.
- If a third-part company is managing your alarm or security equipment, schedule them to come in on the same day of the move. They will have to re-install your systems and set them up at the new store.
- Contact your utility companies to make arrangements for the relocations. Water hookups, electricity, phone lines, internet, and everything else will need to be operational when you are open for business.
- Don’t forget to update your address change wherever it is necessary (this includes your utilities, credit card companies, banks, etc.)
As you can see, in order to pack and move a retail store in a smooth and efficient way, all it takes is a bit of planning and a couple of smart moves. All the rest will be easy with the help of a professional moving company to ensure your belongings are safe and secure during the relocation.