Going back to school after Christmas was a little bit different this year for my younger teens as after months of construction and demolition work, the school management team decided to use the mid-winter break as the time to move everything across from the old buildings to the brand new block.
We went for a wander round the new building recently. It's impressive and so far, nothing seems to have been lost in the transfer. This is a relief as my daughter is in an exam year and the loss of her art work in particular could have been catastrophic!
Despite numerous tours, virtual and in person, my youngest has found the changes hard but I'm hoping that with support he will eventually feel comfortable in what is a very nice space. There is still work to be done on the site but soon it will be a much nicer environment to learn in than it used to be when it was a hotch-pitch of blocks and buildings.
I'm guessing that part of the reason the move has gone so smoothly is that they used a professional removal company. Moving stationary and equipment accurately and quickly would probably need to be done by a firm which specialises in school or office removals as it's not like moving stuff from a house where if you find something in the wrong box it's usually simple to relocate it into the right place.
The prospect of moving the art work alone would fill me with terror and knowing how easily I lose things in my own house I would definitely not be the right person to transfer important paperwork in the middle of a building site.
For schools and workplaces, speed and accuracy are vital. I've never used professional removal people which is why there is still stuff in my attic, brought down here in my car 30 years ago which, let's face it, is unlikely to be unpacked now.
Imagine if that was information about clients, financial paperwork or other important and/or sensitive information? Even if you only have a small office it is worth entrusting any move to experts so you can be up and running efficiently as soon as possible after relocating.
You'll save time too on packing up which surely has to be one of the most tedious jobs ever. Professional removals companies have the materials and the experience of packing things up safely and efficiently so you shouldn't end up hunting down and matching up power leads to gadgets. Cant you tell I speak from personal experience?
When looking for a removal firm check that any potential candidates are suitable for your kind of environment. House removals people may be top notch at domestic removals but make sure they are confident about and have experience of commercial removals too.
Ask friends and colleagues for recommendations or ask the firm if they can put you in touch with some previous clients so you can speak directly with them to see if they would recommend.
Be wary of online reviews (both positive and negative) and while taking them into account, always try to actually speak to a real person especially if moving your business involves transporting valuable or sensitive items. Also, check that any company you plan to use has up to date and adequate insurance and that their staff have had training and aren't just heavy lifters.
They say time is money and although using a professional removal firm will obviously come at a cost, it will be money well spent when you realise how much time and stress you will avoid during your relocation.