The Only Office Moving Checklist You Need

Relocating your office is a major step — and while it’s an exciting milestone for your business, it can also be one of the most stressful projects you’ll face. Between coordinating staff, moving equipment, updating stakeholders, and minimising downtime, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Here in New Zealand, there are unique challenges to consider: from multi-storey city offices with limited truck access, to rural moves with long travel times, to ensuring IT and telecoms are reconnected without delay. That’s why having a detailed, step-by-step Office Moving Checklist is essential.

This guide breaks the process down into stages so you can stay organised and keep your business running smoothly. Whether you’re moving within Christchurch, across the North Island, or relocating teams between islands, this mega checklist will help you plan ahead and reduce stress.

6–12 Months Before the Move

The earlier you start planning, the easier the transition will be.

Appoint a Move Coordinator or Committee

Put one person (or a small team) in charge of overseeing the relocation. They’ll coordinate vendors, manage staff communication, and keep the project on track.

Review Your Current Lease

Understand notice periods, exit obligations, and whether you’re responsible for repairs or reinstating the office to its original state.

Define New Office Requirements

Think about how your business will grow in the next 3–5 years.

Budget & Costing

Factor in both direct and hidden costs.

3–6 Months Before the Move

Finalise New Premises

Secure your new lease and begin space planning.

Vendor & Contractor Arrangements

Start locking in quotes and booking services.

Notify Stakeholders

Keep everyone in the loop early.

IT & Telecom Planning

Plan carefully to minimise downtime.

1–3 Months Before the Move

As the move gets closer, it’s time to focus on essentials and final details.

Asset Audit

Decide what stays, what goes, and what needs replacing.

Packing & Labelling System

Organisation is key.

Staff Communication Plan

Help employees prepare and stay engaged.

Confirm Move Dates & Access

Lock in the logistics.

1–4 Weeks Before the Move

Final Equipment Checks

Ensure everything is packed and ready.

Security & Access

Prepare for a smooth first day in the new space.

Client & Public Notices

Make sure your new address is known before you move.

Clean & Decommission Current Office

Hand the old premises back in good condition.

After Moving In

Health & Safety

Ensure compliance with NZ workplace requirements.

Staff Orientation

Help everyone settle in.

Update Business Information

Keep everything up to date.

Feedback & Review

Check what worked well and what didn’t.

1–4 Weeks Before the Move

Final Equipment Checks

Ensure everything is packed and ready.

Security & Access

Prepare for a smooth first day in the new space.

Client & Public Notices

Make sure your new address is known before you move.

Clean & Decommission Current Office

Hand the old premises back in good condition.

Some Important Office Moving Considerations

Seismic Safety

Confirm your new office meets NZ Building Standards (NBS rating).

Seasonal Timing

Winter moves may be delayed by icy roads or storms. Summer often brings heavy rain.

Rural/Regional Logistics

Confirm road access for large trucks, especially in smaller towns.

Dangerous Goods

Movers cannot transport certain chemicals, paints, or aerosols used in workshops.

IT Continuity

Always test new internet and phone lines in advance to avoid costly downtime.

Extra Tips for Smooth Office Moves

Back Up Everything

Ensure servers and important files are backed up off-site.

Plan Staff Workflows

Allow remote work if the move overlaps with office downtime.

Test Security Systems

Alarms, CCTV, and access cards should be functional before move day.

Review Insurance

Ensure business interruption and transit insurance are active.

Final Thoughts

An office move doesn’t have to mean chaos. With the right planning and preparation, you can minimise disruption and set your business up for success in its new location. Use this checklist as your step-by-step guide, and tick tasks off as you go.

Ready to start planning?