
The short answer
Move IT in clear phases to protect servers and workstations
Moving office IT (desks, computers, servers, switches) takes planning. Audit the cables, shut the hardware down properly, pack it into anti-static IT crates, move it securely and get the network back up fast, so the business loses as little time as possible.
- Map and label every workstation cable before you disconnect. Reconnecting is then quick.
- Hire anti-static IT crates to protect monitors and computers.
- Move servers in the evening or at the weekend to avoid downtime. Giga charges no evening or weekend premium.
- Check your movers' goods-in-transit cover. Giga includes £10,000 on every job.
- Test the network at the new office before moving day.
Planning a Structured IT Relocation
A good IT move starts with planning. List every computer, printer, server and screen. Nothing goes missing, and assigning desks becomes simple.
Work with your network team so IP settings, firewalls and routing are ready before the hardware arrives. Order the internet connection at the new office 2–4 weeks ahead.
Packing Computers and Servers Safely
Delicate hardware needs anti-static bubble wrap, screen protectors and sturdy plastic crates to cope with road vibration.
Never pack a screen without padding. Stand screens upright in IT crates, cushioned with the keyboards and cables. Slide servers out of their racks and wrap each one in heavy transit padding.
Related reading: Removals Insurance in London: What Is Actually Covered When You Move? and How to Choose a Reliable Removal Company in London.
Decommissioning and Recommissioning Workflows
One disconnection checklist for every desk makes setting up at the new office faster. Label each desk's equipment with the person's name or ID.
Unplug power, accessories and network leads, and tie each set together. At the new desks, match the labels to the ports, reconnect and test the connection straight away.
Relocation Compliance, Risk and Insurance
Make sure the move meets your security and compliance rules and that the cover is enough. Drives holding sensitive client data must be tracked from start to finish.
Check your movers' goods-in-transit cover. Giga includes £10,000 as standard. For high-security sites, close server crates with numbered security seals so you have a clear chain of custody.
Relocation Checklist
IT relocation phases and tasks (2026)
| Phase | Core Tasks | Primary Goal | Est. Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Pre-Move Audit | Inventory hardware, map cables, check power specs | Risk reduction | 1 - 2 Weeks before |
| 2. Decommissioning | Backup data, power down, unplug, pack into IT crates | Hardware safety | 2 - 5 Hours (Move day) |
| 3. Secure Transit | Transport in padded, secured vehicles | Theft & damage protection | Transit time |
| 4. Recommissioning | Unpack, mount servers, connect cables, verify internet | Operational readiness | 3 - 8 Hours |
Clear answers
Frequently asked questions
Yes. We can route cables neatly, fit desk trunking and reconnect equipment at the new office, so staff can log in and get to work quickly. Label cables and devices by workstation before the move, and send us the new floor plan in advance. Specialist network setup, such as configuring switches or servers, is usually done by your IT provider; we will fit around their timings on the day.
Yes. Every Giga job includes £10,000 goods-in-transit cover as standard. An office with high-value servers or a lot of equipment may be worth more than that, so list the main items and rough values before the move. Then check with your business insurer whether you need extra cover.
Usually not fully loaded. Servers and heavy parts are normally taken out and packed separately, because road vibration can damage drives and mounting points in a loaded rack. The empty rack moves and is rebuilt at the new site. Plan the shutdown and restart with your IT team, back up all data first, and label every unit and cable so it goes back in quickly.
Plan on one standard IT crate per workstation. That usually holds a monitor, keyboard, mouse, docking station and cables. Staff with two or three screens, laptops, printers or extra kit may need a second. Label each crate with the person's name and new desk number so it goes straight to the right place, and keep personal items in separate crates.


