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Laboratory relocations are on the increase – as facilities look to downsize, streamline and improve efficiency. But moving laboratory equipment is a sensitive and complex process which must be well-managed in order to guarantee success. At Johnsons we work with research firms, universities, laboratory equipment suppliers and medical facilities to help ensure a smooth, efficient relocation. Here we share three simple yet effective actions to ensure a productive process from start to finish.

Prepare and schedule

Adequate planning and preparation and a focus on doing things the right way at the right time can significantly lower the financial, professional and regulatory risks posed by moving laboratory equipment. Firstly, set out an inventory list before putting together a rough chronological itinerary detailing every task that will need to be completed throughout the process. Consult with staff members and others involved in the move before passing the finished schedule to your lab equipment removals company.

Collaboration and cohesion are key

Successful collaboration between your internal teams and the experts responsible for the move is a key component of a smooth and efficient relocation. Once a plan has been put together, share and fine-tune it with the help of professionals. Assign key roles within your company and work actively with your lab equipment movers to ensure that every role is covered by an appropriate professional. Your service provider should then be able to delegate and brief sub-contractors, such as disposal experts or specialist logistical support. A contingency plan should also be created in case of unexpected occurrences.

Choose trusted lab equipment movers

The importance of choosing trusted partners for removal (especially where specialist requirements need to be taken care of, or medical equipment transportation is required) cannot be underestimated. Specialist medical equipment movers and lab equipment distributors will have partner companies they work with to ensure that every element of the move is properly provided for – from disposal and logistical support to chemical waste management and post-relocation clean-up. For this reason it’s key that you choose a trusted provider based on real recommendations, and are confident that they will provide services in a responsible and professional manner.

Discover more about Johnsons specialist laboratory logistics and medical equipment transport services here.

Whilst a laboratory move itself needs plenty of planning and preparation, the logistics and peripheral tasks surrounding relocation day also need to be taken into consideration. Here we explain why notifying relevant parties is important – with a few tips to help you to successfully communicate the move of specialist lab equipment to your clients, staff and suppliers.

Make plans for notification and updates early on

Considering how and when you’ll notify relevant parties during the preparatory stages of your laboratory relocation removes the headache of arranging emails, letters and making calls when you’re in the middle of a move. Make a list in advance, separating groups of interest parties including professional partners, suppliers, sponsors, staff and clients. You may also like to include press on the list if you want to make the most of the relocation as a promotional opportunity.

Letting people know minimises the disruption of downtime

Laboratory relocation can naturally cause some disruption and/or downtime – especially where transportation of specialist lab equipment is involved. You’ll need to let clients and associates know that this may be the case – but do so in a positive way, emphasising the importance of the move and the benefits it will bring in the future.

Get creative and use relocation as an opportunity to reach out

A relocation is in fact the perfect time to reconnect with clients and suppliers you may not have spoken to in a while. You may like to put together a newsletter either online or on paper, detailing the move but also any important progress that has been made within the past six months. Sharing and celebrating achievements may bring unexpected positive results alongside the move – such as fresh funding, grants, lucrative new partnerships and collaborations.

Need expert support for an upcoming relocation involving specialist lab equipment or chemistry equipment? Get in touch today to discuss your specific requirements.

Co-ordinating a lab equipment move is naturally a complex and detailed process, even when requirements are relatively straightforward – so specific provisions for specialist transportation requirements is paramount. Specialist requirements need specialist attention and care – so forward planning and expert intervention are needed for a smooth and successful move.

Consider key disruptions and consequences before commencing

Once a move has been decided, it’s important to spend time co-ordinating before the planning and preparation stages commence. What needs to be done? How will the move disrupt lab activity both in the short and long-term? What could go wrong? Considering every potential outcome and eventuality in detail may take some time – but it helps you to prepare adequately for a move involving specialist lab equipment. Enlist professional support from a provider well-versed in moving medical and laboratory equipment – alongside other specific services such as dedicated cleaning companies to help you to clear out following the move, and storage facilities to hold items securely and safely during the relocation.

Choose an ADR certified laboratory equipment removals partner

An Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods or ADR certification is a legal requirement for most countries within the European Union. This ensures that the individuals responsible for managing, handling and transporting laboratory equipment and items or substances classed as ‘dangerous goods’ are qualified to do so. If your lab equipment movers are found not to have sufficient certification you could be liable for any accidental damage – so it’s important to ask to see evidence of accreditation and fully vet all companies you’ll be working with during the relocation process – including third parties assigned by partners.

Emergency provisions are paramount

When specialist transportation requirements are present specialist measures must be put in place – and this includes planning for potential accidents. Even when proper preparatory measures are in place, naturally things can sometimes go wrong. Considering your immediate actions and putting a timeline in place in case the worst should happen will be invaluable should a minor or major mishap occur. This is especially true when dealing with scientific lab equipment or dangerous goods. At Johnsons, our staff and equipment are fully compliant with DGS standards – and our vehicles are equipped with necessary facilities including aggressive chemical spill kits and P.P.E. Our in-house Dangerous Goods Safety Advisors ensure that the project is co-ordinated with care in line with current regulations.

For specialist removals and storage of lab equipment UK-wide, get in touch with our dedicated team today.