Moving your retail store? It’s no small task! We get it — there’s so much to think about, from picking the perfect new location to managing inventory and keeping your customers in the loop. As experienced Chicago commercial movers, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to share some handy tips to help you make your store’s move as smooth as possible.

Tips for Relocating a Retail Business

1. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Transition

The key to a successful retail move is early planning, be it a local relocation or a long-distance move. Start by setting a move date that aligns with your slower business periods. This approach will minimize disruption to your sales and give you more flexibility during the moving process.

  • Create a detailed timeline, working backward from your move date.
  • Lock in your new location well in advance.
  • Start packing non-essential items early to spread out the work.

2. Hire Professional Movers

While it might be tempting to handle the move yourself, hiring professional movers makes the process more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. In particular, moving pros are irreplaceable when it comes to dealing with antiques, delicate art, and heavy items like pianos and pool tables.

  • Research and hire a reliable moving company with experience in commercial moves.
  • Book your movers ahead of time, especially if you’re moving during the busy season.
  • Make sure to discuss any special requirements for moving delicate or valuable items.
  • Need a storage solution during your move? Ask the moving company about their options.

3. Manage Your Inventory Wisely

Moving less means saving more, so managing your inventory efficiently before the big move is crucial.

  • Do an inventory count to know exactly what you’ve got.
  • Hold a clearance sale to reduce stock levels.
  • Sell bulky items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.
  • Donate unsold items to local charities.

4. Keep Your Customers in the Loop

Your loyal customers need to know about your move, so make sure to keep them informed every step of the way.

  • Post about the move on social media.
  • Update your website with your new address and the move date.
  • Send out email updates to your mailing list.
  • Place signs in your current store to let walk-in customers know about the move.

5. Get Your New Space Set Up Early

If your new spot is ready to go when you arrive, you’ll be back in business in no time. Make sure your new retail space is prepped well before moving day!

  • Get utilities like electricity and internet set up before you move in.
  • Plan out your new store’s layout so you know where everything goes.
  • Knock out any renovations or updates while the space is still empty.
  • Set up your point-of-sale system and give it a test run before opening.

6. Pack Smart, Not Hard

Efficient packing is crucial for a smooth move and can make unpacking much easier at your new location.

  • Use smaller boxes for heavier items and bigger boxes for lighter stuff.
  • Clearly label each box with what’s inside and where it should go in the new store.
  • Pack an “essentials” box with things you’ll need right away.

7. Consider Storage Options for a Smoother Move

When relocating your retail store, you might find that temporary storage solutions can significantly ease the moving process. When choosing a storage unit:

  • Look for a facility with solid security to keep your items safe.
  • Make sure you’ll be able to access your stuff when you need it.
  • Choose a flexible storage plan that works with your moving schedule.

8. Update Your Business Info Everywhere

Don’t forget to update all your business details with your shiny new address. ‍

Here’s what you need to do:

  • Update your address on all official documents and registrations.
  • Refresh your Google My Business profile and any other online listings.
  • Order new business cards and stationery with the updated info.
  • Let your suppliers and partners know where to find you.
Update Your Business Info Everywhere

9. Plan for a Little Downtime

Even with the best planning, there’s bound to be some downtime during your move. That’s totally fine — just plan for it so it doesn’t catch you off guard!

  • Set up an online store or offer pre-orders to keep sales going.
  • Let your customers know if there’ll be any disruptions in service.
  • Use this time to train your team on new systems or processes!

10. Throw a Grand Reopening Bash

Once you’re settled in, it’s time to celebrate! A grand reopening can get customers excited about your new location and bring in fresh foot traffic.

  • Plan a fun reopening event with special promotions and discounts.
  • Invite local media or influencers to help spread the word.
  • Roll out a marketing campaign to promote your new digs and any new products or services.

11. Take Care of Your Team

Your employees are the backbone of your business, and they’ll play a huge part in making your move a success. Keep them in the loop and make them feel involved — it’ll make the whole process smoother.

  • Keep communication open: Regular updates about the move help everyone know what’s happening.
  • Be clear: Give them specific instructions about what they need to do during the move.
  • Offer incentives: A little reward for working extra hours can go a long way.
  • Boost morale: Plan a fun team-building event at the new location once everything is settled — it’ll help everyone feel connected to the new space.

12. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Moving doesn’t mean leaving tech behind! Use it to streamline your move and keep your business humming along during the transition.

  • Track inventory with software: Make sure you know exactly what’s being moved and where it’s going.
  • Go cloud-based: Set up cloud systems so you can access all your important data no matter where you are.
  • Project management tools: Use these to keep the entire move organized and on track — no detail gets missed!

13. Don't Forget the Details

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Pay attention to these details to keep your move running like a well-oiled machine.

  • Make copies of important documents: Just in case, keep them in a safe place.
  • Take photos of your current setup: It’ll help when you’re trying to recreate your displays in the new store.
  • Create a floor plan for the new space: This will guide movers and make the setup so much easier.
  • Pack a toolkit: Essentials like screws, tools, and tape will save you a headache when assembling furniture and displays.

Trust Alliance Moving & Storage for Your Retail Relocation Success

Moving your store is a big deal, but with careful planning and the right help, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to take your business to the next level. Follow our tips to make the move easier and set your business up for success in its new home.

At Alliance Moving & Storage, we understand the unique challenges of retail moves in Chicago. Contact our team today, and we will make your transition smooth and efficient, allowing you to focus on what matters most – your business and customers.