1.2 ~ The Dark Phase of the Moon

Seems as if there are always a few craters hidden from view. No matter how meticulously you've arranged the move, you might as well plan on a few arrangements going awry. Why, the sheer magnitude of details alone can be unnerving. And time spent coordinating the relocation instead of bidding on jobs can reach deep into your pocketbook.

Not to mention the disruption of productivity! There'll be lots of time spent tearing down, packing, loading, unloading, and setting up instead of filling orders. Items will probably get misplaced, some may even be lost. In the meantime, work orders can get behind and customers can get pretty irate being put out.

Will your move create inconvenience to loyal employees that must now commute further? Could your relocation even cause a few to quit? Something to consider if that shop manager you've depended on for the last ten years decides that your decision isn't in his best interest.

What about the cost of the move? Payment to professional movers, the expense of boxes and packing supplies, employee compensation, as well as truck rental can run up the tab of relocation.

1.3 ~ On the Sunny Side

So with all the cons of a location relocation, why would you even consider it? What would be the deciding factor for a move? Simply, when moving holds a definite competitive advantage and when the growth of your business hinges on that decision, you should relocate.

For instance, an improved location can make a convenient difference for your customers. With extended parking facilities and greater proximity, clients won't have to think twice before running out to pick up their banner or car signs. Or to even place their order, for that matter!

Besides, a sign shop that has visibility can generate more walk-in (or, drive up) sales. Increased traffic flow can also translate into an opportunity to advertise your services economically and reach a broader audience. A bright bonus! Tapping into additional markets is therefore made easier, especially when that customer base drives by daily.

And what about when those upgraded facilities make for a better image? The visual impression that potential customers get can be the deciding factor to whether you get that important contract or not. Like it or not, what they see they think they get. Of course, keeping that client will ultimately depend on the quality of your workmanship and service.

More space for inventory, vehicles, machinery can result in heightened productivity and elevated efficiency. Enjoy better organization with the room to store vinyl materials and substrates neatly.

Lower overhead can be a prime reason for a move. Reduced rent or lease fees and utility costs may be enough to justify relocation. When the bottom line is augmented simply by cutting expenses, that's one savvy way to gain a competitive advantage.

1.4 ~ Planning for the Move

Before the actual moving process gets underway, decide when the best time for the undertaking will be. Will it be during summer, when the weather is better? Or possibly winter, when work slows down?

And expect delays. Plan months earlier than you think you should. What would happen if your grand re-opening was scheduled for today but your cutting equipment and supplies were still in boxes across town? Don't try to cut it too close.

Try to appoint a key person to handle the necessary details, freeing others to continue concentrating on business at hand. What an advantage to have a competent individual take the load off others so that productivity and profitability don't suffer!

Be sure to place ads in local newspapers and journals, advertise your relocation on the radio, and inform customers with a mailing. Don't have your customers find out you've moved the hard way -- they may shift their business elsewhere if they're inconvenienced.

If possible, place a sign or banner at your new location. Advertise your business relocation ahead of time. After all, it's a cost-effective method, especially since you should have access to the materials to produce the signage!

1.5 ~ So, Should You Move?

Ultimately that decision will be made by you after you've assessed the positives and negatives of relocation. When the negatives have outweighed the positives, try to make the best of your current location and improve your competitive advantage through other means.

But when "We're moving!" is the conclusion, be sure to plan diligently. Give yourself sufficient time and don't take anything for granted. Make that location relocation your best business decision ever!