Tag: commercial moving

Leasing or Buying office space. Which is best for my business? The answer is: It depends.

When you’re in the market for a new office space, there are a lot of decisions to be made. Where should you move? How should you design the office layout? Will you take your existing furniture or buy new furniture? But most importantly, you need to ask yourself if leasing or buying your new office space is best for you and your company.

 

Leasing

As with anything, there are pros and cons to leasing vs. buying office spaces. We’re going to take you through some pros and cons so that you can decide what will be your business’ best option.

Leasing                            

Pros                      

  • No down payment. Cash is king, so the longer you keep money in your pocket and business, the better.
  • No expenses regarding the upkeep of the office. So, whenever a light bulb goes out, no problem. Call your landlord and they’ll replace it at no expense to you.
  • You can sign a short-term lease, which gives you some flexibility. If you’re expanding, no problem. You can stay in a short-term lease for a few months and then move to a bigger facility.

Cons

  • Leasing is an expense that doesn’t go towards ownership of property, in fact, you can sometimes spend more renting.
  • You can’t fix things as you see fit because the landlord owns the property, not you.
  • A lease means that the landlord is in charge. And with that, comes uncertainty because the landlord could potentially make you move as soon as your lease is up. Even if you want to stay on the property, your landlord could also substantially increase your rent. This increase is especially possible if the landlord decides to sell the property.

OpenOffice

Buying

Pros  

  • Buying office space can end up being cheaper than renting, and your monthly note goes toward the ownership of property, not into your landlord’s pocket.
  • When you own the property, you can paint the building or hang anything on the walls without asking for permission, or getting a “no” from the landlord.
  • When you own property, you have control over when you move out. Nobody will force you to move out on short notice when you’re the one in charge.

Cons

  • Along with buying property, you also obtain the expenses that go along with the ownership. Any liability that goes along with the property is also put on you, the owner.
  • Replacing AC units or leaks in the roof can be pricey, and if you own the property, all costs fall on you.
  • If you find that your business is struggling in its new location, and you own the property, you don’t have the freedom to pick up and move out when your lease is up. You’re bound to the building, until you sell it at least.

As you can see, there are many options to weigh when deciding whether to buy or lease your new office space. There is no right choice because both have advantages and disadvantages. Whatever choice you make, The Quality Group will be there to help you seamlessly move your office to your new location.

 

Work with The Quality Group

At The Quality Group, we’re your commercial relocation specialists. Founded in 1987 in New Orleans, LA, The Quality Group serves the Gulf States with comprehensive commercial moving services from move planning to furniture installation. No other company puts in the time or preparation that we do to make your move stress and hassle-free.

 

 

Don’t lose your data or computers when moving your office.

Having movers physically move your companies’ computer equipment makes you cringe. To ease your mind about having movers handle your precious cargo, you want your own employees to move their own computer stations. You may want to have employees move their computers instead because you’ve been thinking, “What if the movers drop my computers? What the movers just throw my computers in the back of their truck like it’s an empty box?”

I’ll give you another “what if” situation. What if your employee accidentally drops their monitor on the way to their car, or what if the computer gets left in their car for the weekend and gets overheated? Now your business has another set of problems because you have to replace that computer so that employee can work Monday morning.

But remember, your employees specialize in your business operations, not in moving computer equipment. Always remember to back up your data before allowing anyone to start moving your computer equipment, servers or workstations. At the Quality Group, we know that your computer equipment and data are the lifeline of your business, so we treat it with the greatest care. We’re going to take you step by step and explain to you how we would move your business’ computer equipment. If moved properly you won’t have to worry. You should expect when hiring any moving company to follow the same same steps in order to safely transport your computers.

We believe that any moving company should have special equipment carts that are designed to safely transport all of your computer equipment. You can see a picture of one of our carts below. But before we put your equipment on one of these strategically designed carts we bubble wrap the monitors. Second, we take all computer accessories such as your mouse, keyboard and wiring and pack them neatly in our computer accessories bag. Next, we begin to load the computer equipment carts. We put all the bubble-wrapped monitors on the bottom shelf of the cart, and then load all of your computer accessories onto the cart. Our final step before transport is to stretch wrap the computer equipment carts. This ensures a secure transport for all of your precious computer equipment. Again see a picture of a properly loaded, wrapped and protected computer equipment on the cart below.

 

WrappedComputers

 

When the Quality Group arrives at your new location with all of your business’ computer equipment, you can be sure that no computer will be without a mouse, keyboard or monitor cable. We strategically pack each of your offices’ computer stations so each computer equipment cart contains every item needed for each computer station to be fully functional.

We then unpack each computer station. But, that’s not all. We make sure every computer is in its correct place and functioning smoothly. You and your employees shouldn’t have to go through any hassle during your office move. That’s why we make this process as easy, quick and safe as possible.

You should expect the same service from any moving company you hire to move your office equipment. If you choose to move the equipment yourself, make sure that you follow the same steps.

If you have questions the Quality Group would be glad to assist you on your move.

QGTruck

Move Your Business Out of State Without Going Crazy

Are you planning to move your office to another state? Then you know it’s not easy. Using over 25 years of experience, we’ve put together a guide to moving your office out of state. It can feel chaotic, but these tips can make it easier.

 

Focus on The Big Picture

As the business owner or manager, you are responsible for running your business and making sure service to your customers is uninterrupted. Instead of getting bogged down by little details, keep your eye on the prize. As long as your office move is finished on time, it’s okay if an employee forgot to pack a few office supplies, or if an office chair was damaged in the move. Small details can be handled by your moving company, so you can focus on getting to business in your new office.

 

Anticipate Unexpected Costs

While an experienced moving company can account for almost every factor, you never know what’s going to happen until you actually move. A sudden traffic delay or a flat-tire on a moving truck are small inconveniences in the grand scheme of your commercial move. But they could cause your business to open one day later than expected. This is just one example of unexpected costs that can’t always be prevented with planning. Allot at least 10% more finances for your office move than you think it’s going to cost. So if the unthinkable happens, you’re covered.

 

Expect a Period of Office Transition

This move isn’t just a big deal for you and your business; it affects your employees as well. If you’re moving out of state, your employees will be uprooting their lives to work in your new office. Some staff changes will be necessary, as some employees inevitably will not want to move. Give your new and existing employees time to get used to their new workplace and surroundings. You will likely have more employee requests than usual during this transition. But if you work with your employees and remember that this is a natural phase of commercial moves, your business will get back to normal (or even better!) productivity soon.

 

Feeling overwhelmed by your out-of-state commercial move? The Quality Group can manage your move from planning and packing to installing equipment in your new office.

Work with The Quality Group

At The Quality Group, we’re your commercial relocation specialists. Founded in 1987 in New Orleans, LA, The Quality group serves the gulf states with comprehensive commercial moving services from move planning to furniture installation. No other company puts in the time or preparation that we do to make your move stress and hassle-free.

Holiday Office Moves: Pros and Cons

Are you planning an office move this holiday season? During your move preparation, consider all the pros and cons of moving your business during the holidays.

 

Pro: The Holidays are the Slow Season

Business often slows down during the holiday season, which can make it a great time for an office move. Without the pressure of constant deadlines and meetings, you have time to plan your move and relocate to your new office.

Pro: Holiday Schedules Give You More Flexibility

Every office has a holiday schedule to service their customers while accommodating their employees. Shortened hours are often the norm for businesses during the holidays. This precedent allows you to adopt a flexible schedule during your office move. If you have to, you can even close the office during the move without losing business or upsetting current customers.

Con: Staying Productive During the Holidays is Tough

If keeping your office moving during the craziness of the holidays is tough, moving your office could be a challenge. The key to a smooth office move is planning, planning and more planning. Without a hard-working team dedicated to planning, your office move may turn into uphill battle.

Con: Unexpected Moving Costs

Holiday costs add up fast, and so can moving costs. If your business is moving slow during the holidays, make sure you have the revenue to cover all of your business moving costs.

 

There will never be the “perfect” time to move. Moving is inconvenient, costly, and takes work and planning. When deciding when to move, look at your business cycle, holiday schedule and incoming revenue. When you’re ready to move, let The Quality Group make it as easy as possible.

Work with The Quality Group

At The Quality Group, we’re your commercial relocation specialists. Founded in 1987 in New Orleans, LA, The Quality group serves the gulf states with comprehensive commercial moving services from move planning to furniture installation. No other company puts in the time or preparation that we do to make your move stress and hassle-free.

You’re Ready to Move Your Office. Where Do You Start?

Are you ready to move? Maybe you’re opening a new branch, or you’ve outgrown your office and you’re looking to grow in a bigger space. But moving your office is a huge undertaking. Answer these quick questions to start thinking about your commercial move.

 

What size office do you need?

Do you know the square footage of your current office? If you’re looking for a bigger office, you should know how much space you expect to need in the future before you plan an office move. You also need to create a floor plan that allows space for all of your furniture, office elements and employees.

 

Are you looking to buy or rent?

Buying and renting a commercial space are two completely different processes. If you’re looking to buy, enlist the help of a commercial real estate agent who can help you consider all the important buying factors. If you plan to lease an office space, discuss with management how long of a lease you’re prepared to sign. Decide this before you began to look for a new office.

 

Where do you want to move your office?

Whether you’re moving across the country or across town, location can make all the difference for your business. Do your research and get help from real estate experts to determine the ideal location for your new office. This will narrow down your search and help speed up your business moving process.

 

What is your budget for office space?

Don’t just have an idea of your budget before you move. You need to have a concrete, ironed-out budget set before you begin the commercial moving process. This will also make your search for a new office easier and faster.

 

What is your business moving timeline?

A clear, realistic moving timeline separates a chaotic move from a smooth one. At least six months before your move, you need to start planning. Monthly and weekly deadlines will keep your commercial move on track and keep everyone in your office on the same page. Once you answer these questions, you’re ready to start planning your commercial move! Then you need to answer one more important question: Who are you going to trust move your office? The Quality Group will work with you and help you set up and stick to a moving timeline. We make sure your commercial move runs smoothly and is finished on time.

Work with The Quality Group

At The Quality Group, we’re your commercial relocation specialists. Founded in 1987 in New Orleans, LA, The Quality group serves the gulf states with comprehensive commercial moving services from move planning to furniture installation. No other company puts in the time or preparation that we do to make your move stress and hassle-free.

Does Your Moving Company REALLY Provide Office Relocation Services?

an office relocation in progress

A lot of companies say they provide “office relocation services.” But what does that really mean?

To us, “office relocation” means exactly what it sounds like – your office, just in a different place. Office relocation is more than just packing up file cabinets and trucking them over to your new office. A true office relocation means you walk into your office, ready to get to work. That means no mess to clean up, no computers to plug in and no downtime for your business. Before you choose a moving company, ask movers these questions to make sure you get the office relocation you deserve.

 

1. Do you move technology like computers and electronics?

Very few commercial moving companies are capable of safely moving sensitive technological equipment. If you have to move your computers yourself, you’re not getting a full office relocation.

2. Do your services include set-up and re-connection?

Capable movers will pack up and move your office equipment and supplies. But will they hook everything back up and put it together? Asking this question should give you some piece of mind and weed out the less adequate movers.

3. Do you clean up after your staff?

The last thing you want to first in your new office is pick up trash. Choose a moving company that will clean up your office and leave it ready for you to do business in.

 

These questions are easy to overlook, but left unanswered, they can make the difference between an office move and an office relocation. The goal of office relocation companies like The Quality Group is to leave your office move-in ready. We don’t just move things around, we set up your office the way you want it and we re-connect your equipment and electronics. When we finish your relocation, you can walk into your office and get back to work immediately. When you’re gathering quotes and interviewing movers, remember these questions to make sure you get the best moving experience possible.

Work with The Quality Group

At The Quality Group, we’re your commercial relocation specialists. Founded in 1987 in New Orleans, LA, The Quality group serves the gulf states with comprehensive commercial moving services from move planning to furniture installation. No other company puts in the time or preparation that we do to make your move stress and hassle-free.

Don’t Lose Customers During Your Commercial Move

Your office relocation doesn’t just affect you and your employees. It has an impact on your customers, too. Your customers don’t see everything that goes into your office move. They don’t see the preparation and stress you go through to provide them a better product, service and company experience. All your customer sees is that when they need you, you’re not there. So how do you keep your customers in the loop during your commercial move?

Brief Your Customers and Clients on Your Big Move
Before your move, mail and e-mail cards to your customers, letting them know about your move. Prominently display your new address and when you will begin operations there. This simple gesture lets your customer know that you care about them and that you want to provide them with the best service possible.

Give Your Customers Back-up Service Options during Your Move
The biggest thing your customers care about is that they can get to you when they need you. During your office move, make sure you have a plan in place to take care of your clients. Whether you set up an emergency service line or help customers online, create a plan to so your customer isn’t ever left out in the cold. Keeping their service uninterrupted will keep them happy and loyal customers.

Follow Through and Finish Your Commercial Move on Time
One of the biggest reasons customers leave businesses is poor service. When you tell your clients something, the importance of follow-through cannot be overstated. To make sure your customers aren’t left hanging, hire a moving company that can guarantee your commercial move is finished on time. Most companies can’t give you an on-time guarantee, and increased moving time can cost you customers. That’s why The Quality Group’s commercial movers pride ourselves on finishing every move on time. We put as much, if not more, preparation into your office move as you do. Our goal is to finish your move with no operational downtime. Before you choose a commercial mover, think about your customers. Make the right choice for both you and them.

Work with The Quality Group

At The Quality Group, we’re your commercial relocation specialists. Founded in 1987 in New Orleans, LA, The Quality group serves the gulf states with comprehensive commercial moving services from move planning to furniture installation. No other company puts in the time or preparation that we do to make your move stress and hassle-free.