7 Potential Roadblocks to a Successful Warehouse Relocation

It’s settled. The date for your warehouse relocation is on the calendar. Now, you might think you can shift your focus to other tasks, right? Maybe. But experience has taught me that some critical aspects often slip through the cracks. Misplacing your coffee maker might not be a disaster. However, forgetting about a large customer order during the moving week? That’s a different story altogether.

Warehouse relocations seldom proceed without a hitch. The key lies in sidestepping significant blunders that could harm your business. Below, we’ll explore seven crucial issues you should avoid when planning your warehouse or distribution center relocation. 

Addressing these issues early in the planning stage can significantly reduce time, errors, and costs associated with the move.

Let’s dive into this practical warehouse relocation checklist.

1. Avoiding Surprise Shipment/Delivery Issues

Imagine realizing, in the middle of your relocation, that an important order for your top customer is due for delivery on the same day. Amidst the chaos of the move, confusion reigns, and no one knows the order’s status. This scenario is more common than you think and can result in significant setbacks.

To avoid such pitfalls, create a meticulous warehouse transition plan that includes strategies for shipments and deliveries. The risk of overlooking crucial orders during the move is real and can have dire consequences. Involve warehouse and shipping managers in the relocation planning process. 

Their insights are invaluable in foreseeing potential disruptions. Together, you can devise strategies to ensure a smooth transition of orders and deliveries. This might include staggered shipping schedules, temporary holding areas for in-transit goods, or even outsourcing certain deliveries to ensure continuity.

Remember, thorough planning in this area not only prevents logistical nightmares but also maintains the trust and satisfaction of your most important customers. By anticipating these challenges, you ensure that your business operations remain uninterrupted, bolstering your reputation for reliability and efficiency.

2. Timely Ordering of Storage and Material Handling Equipment

Timing is everything. You’re well aware of how long your products take to move through the manufacturing process. Similar principles apply to ordering pallet racks and other material handling equipment. 

Last-minute orders are a recipe for disaster and can result in serious delays and disruptions.

Waiting until the eleventh hour to order essential equipment can significantly hamper your relocation process. Many suppliers no longer keep large inventories on hand, meaning that if they don’t have what you need, you’re looking at extended lead times. This delay can derail your entire relocation timeline, causing a domino effect of setbacks.

One effective strategy to mitigate these issues is to opt for quality used equipment. Many companies, like East Coast Storage Equipment, carry a substantial inventory of pre-owned items.

Leveraging this approach, you can:

• Reduce waiting periods
• Keep your warehouse relocation schedule on track
• Find cost-effective alternatives without compromising on quality

3. Accurate Forecasting for Future Storage Needs

Data-driven planning is so important. 

Base your storage capacity decisions on solid data, not just intuition or guessing. As a savvy business operator, your decision to relocate should stem from tangible existing conditions and realistic and realistic future conditions. The consequences of miscalculation can be significant.

One of your goals should be to maximize the value of industrial storage space. Failing to accurately predict your future storage needs could result in a cramped, insufficient space. Overestimating, on the other hand, can lead to unnecessary expenses and wasted resources.

Keep an eye on industry trends and growth forecasts. If your sector expects to see a 6% increase in annual growth, your storage capacity should reflect this expansion.

Always reassess your inventory management strategies to align with these predictions. This might involve:

• Upgrading storage solutions to accommodate anticipated increases in stock.
• Implementing more efficient warehousing techniques to maximize existing space.

4. Pre-Relocation Check of Existing Material Handling Equipment

Before the move, it’s important to evaluate the condition of your current material handling equipment. Your team might have been resourceful in keeping things operational with makeshift repairs, but consider the long-term implications. Moving equipment that’s barely functioning is like dragging along dead weight.

Weigh the costs of relocating old equipment against the benefits of upgrading. Ask yourself:

• Will the cost of moving and repairing old equipment outweigh the investment in new, more efficient machinery?
• How does the expected lifespan of your current equipment compare to newer models?
• Can upgraded equipment increase productivity and safety in your new location?

Opt for upgrades where it makes financial and operational sense. If you’re using a warehouse relocation service, consult with them to see if they have any input on this issue. Moving is an ideal time to phase out old equipment that’s more trouble than it’s worth. Invest in equipment that promises longevity and reliability to ensure the smooth operation of your new setup.

5. Securing Necessary Permits in Advance

Don’t let a paperwork oversight derail your entire warehouse relocation.

Necessary permits for things like pallet racking can include:

• Occupancy
• Building
• Fire code

A missing or incorrect permit can halt your relocation and cause significant delays as well as financial setbacks. Understand the risks of non-compliance. Without the proper permits, you risk quite a lot:

• Legal complications
• Interruptions in your relocation timeline
• Increased costs due to delays

Be proactive in engaging with local authorities. Begin this process well in advance of your move by contacting local municipalities for permit requirements, ensuring all paperwork is accurate and up-to-date, and consulting experts, like warehouse relocation services, to navigate complex regulations.

6. Ensuring IT System Readiness During Transition

IT infrastructure is critical, and your IT system’s functionality is essential during a relocation. It’s not just about physical assets; your data and network connectivity are equally important. 

Involve your IT team from the onset. They’ll play a critical role in ensuring a seamless transition by preparing for network continuity between old and new locations. They’ll also establish temporary solutions to keep systems running during the move and make sure everything is secure during the process.

Ensure that your team at the new location is fully operational from day one. This means:

• Setting up and testing network connections before the move.
• Coordinating with the old location for uninterrupted communication.
• Implementing contingency plans for any unforeseen IT issues.

7. Updating or Implementing a Warehouse Management System (WMS)

A warehouse relocation presents a unique opportunity to revisit and enhance your operations. This is the perfect time to update your current warehouse management system (WMS) or implement a new one.

A WMS brings significant improvements to your day-to-day work. It not only increases efficiency but also offers better control of your inventory and streamlines order fulfillment. These enhancements lead to operational accuracy and can have a direct impact on customer satisfaction as well as your bottom line.

Where to Find Warehouse Relocation Services

Navigating a warehouse relocation successfully is challenging, but the strategies we’ve outlined can make a significant difference. For the best results, consider partnering with experienced relocation professionals like our team here at East Coast Storage Equipment.

With our expertise in planning, execution, and efficient setup, you can expect a smooth transition to your new location. Get in touch with the team today to learn all about our warehouse relocation services.