Moving home offices

Allegedly it’s spring and the time of year when people start to move house,
said to be one of the most stressful of life events. Working from home that means moving home offices as well, which just adds to the complexity of the situation.

A and I have moved house and home offices rather more in the last few years than we bargained for, but at least along the way we’ve learnt some ways to make the experience less painful.

How to keep calm and move home offices

Start preparing well before the removal date:

• I’ve moved my own stuff and I’ve used professional removers and I can tell you the latter option is much less stressful.
• Get quotes from several small, local firms so that the person who comes to give the quote is the one who will be moving you.
• Choose the one you feel most comfortable with, ideally with a good sense of humour – it will make all the difference on the day.
• Don’t be afraid to tell your customers and associates that you’re moving home offices. It gives you an excellent reason to make contact three times. Tell them you are going, remind them just before the moving date to update contact details, and confirm once you are in, maybe inviting them for a catch-up meeting.

At the new property:

• Check your new home office’s sockets, phone lines etc.
• Find out which ISPs are available and the broadband speed you can expect.
• Be very clear in your instructions to suppliers, whether existing or new ones. Check all the details at the end of each phone call and if possible get written confirmation. Keep a record of all calls.
• Keep checking that all is proceeding according to plan – never assume that no news is good news.
• If in doubt, pleasantly ask to speak to a supervisor/manager and request they take over your case.
• Find out if there is a workhub or other coworking space in the area, or a library, coffee shops etc where you could check emails in an emergency. Or buy a mobile broadband dongle.

Packing:

• Leave your home office’s contents till last, keeping all house and utilities documentation, work pending etc accessible in a folder or briefcase.
• Back up all your data before breaking down your computer. With luck you’ll have kept the original boxes to pack it all in.
• Move all fragile/expensive/essential kit yourself in the car if it gives you peace of mind.
• Lots of small boxes are better than fewer larger ones. The contents of filing cabinets are unbelievably heavy and the handles will tear, making breakages more likely.

Have you moved home offices recently? Did you acquire any handy tips other home workers might appreciate?