Relocation, relocation, relocation

But now a website has been launched which promises to help companies move office without the usual hassle and heartache – and without blowing a hole in their finances.

HelpMovingOffice.co.uk is the brainchild of Jeremy Carr-Smith who wanted to create a one-stop relocation service for office managers and business owners on the web.

He reckons while the economy is showing tentative signs of recovery the business landscape has changed fundamentally with companies looking to squeeze maximum value out of key strategic and operational decisions – including how and where to move.

While similar sites abound in the residential market, Carr-Smith claims HelpMovingOffice is the only independent resource to guide companies through the office move process.

On one level the site acts as a reassuring arm around the shoulder, offering an impressive amount of free advice, including downloadable checklists, timetables and budget planners.

The business-end of the site is a directory of approved companies – removal firms, solicitors, commercial property agents, office fitters – who have been vetted by the site.

Mr Carr-Smith said: “The prospect of moving office can be daunting but like any process it can be broken down into a series of simple tasks and checks. HelpMovingOffice.co.uk gives businesses the confidence to make informed decision.”

Office relocation can be a critical area for review as businesses consolidate, reduce excessive overheads and build a stronger platform on which to grow. However research shows most people assigned to manage the office move are doing so for the first time and lack the experience, skill-set or time to handle such a strategic project effectively.

Mr Carr-Smith added: “The site explains what needs to be done and how to do it. it also puts businesses in contact with the right companies for each step of their move. Working with the right professionals can mean the difference between success and failure.”

So far the response to HelpMovingOffice has been positive.

Torie Chilcott, director of digital marketing company Rockabox Media, said: “I was dreading the prospect of having to manage our office move and wasn’t sure where to start – until I found HelpMovingOffice. Not only did it break down the whole process into easily manageable steps but it also offered peace of mind when choosing the right companies to work with. It was largely thanks to the website that our office move went so smoothly.”

Andrew Higgs, director of customer analysis firm Acquity, was also impressed: "This is an excellent and much needed resource for anyone thinking about moving office. I would advise anyone embarking on an office move to visit HelpMovingOffice  before they do anything else.”