Factory relocation: what to check in the new building before signing

Why check before signing

In a factory move, the new building sets much of the cost and the schedule. A gate that is too low, a floor that cannot take the weight or a power connection that is too small can force expensive changes, and sometimes delay the whole move. A proper check before signing prevents surprises, and it is worth doing together with the mover, the electrician and the factory's engineer.

Truck and crane access

• Can a large truck reach the gate, turn around and leave?
• Is there a loading dock, or is unloading done at ground level with a forklift?
• If a crane is needed, is there room to set it up? Is a permit from the local authority needed to close a lane?
• Does the industrial zone restrict unloading hours?

Gates, openings and height

• Measure the width and height of every gate and opening on the route, and compare them with the largest machine on the forklift or on skates.
• Check the ceiling height, beams and lighting where machines will be lifted.
• In a multi-storey building, check the service elevator, its weight limit and lifting openings.

Floor and loads

Heavy machines such as presses, CNC machines and large lathes put a lot of weight on a small area. An engineer on the factory's behalf should check that the floor can take the load, and whether some machines need a special foundation or anchoring. On the route from the gate to the final position, also check for trenches, covers or weak flooring that the forklift will cross.

Utilities and permits

• Power connection: is the capacity enough for all the machines running together?
• Compressed air, water, gas and drainage: where will they run and who will install them?
• Air conditioning and ventilation for areas that need a stable temperature, such as measuring machines or the server room.
• Network for the offices and for networked machines.
• Permits: check with the local authority that the building's designated use fits your type of production.

Layout plan

Before signing, draw a first layout plan: where each machine stands, where forklifts drive, and where the warehouse and shipping area are. That checks that the building really fits the production lines, not just the floor area in square metres. The same plan is later used for marking the floor on moving day.

How we help

On large jobs you can arrange a survey with us at both buildings. We check the access, gates, routes and the lifting equipment each machine needs, so you get a clear picture of the move before you decide. Utilities, floor and permits are checked by professionals on the factory's behalf.

More about factory relocation

• Factory relocation timeline: from 3 months before to start-up dayA factory relocation timeline: 3 months before, a month before and moving week, how to limit downtime, who disconnects machines and what to check at start-up.
• 7 common mistakes in a factory relocationThe mistakes that cost the most in a factory relocation: starting late, no floor plan, last-minute technicians, and moving everything at once.

More guides

• How much does a factory relocation cost?What drives the cost of a factory relocation: number and weight of machines, lifting equipment, distance, phased work and night shifts, and how to get an accurate quote.
• 7 common mistakes in a factory relocationThe mistakes that cost the most in a factory relocation: starting late, no floor plan, last-minute technicians, and moving everything at once.
• Factory relocation timeline: from 3 months before to start-up dayA factory relocation timeline: 3 months before, a month before and moving week, how to limit downtime, who disconnects machines and what to check at start-up.