5 Dos And Don'ts Of Inventory Management During A Warehouse Move

When moving a warehouse to a new location, inventory management will be a big part of your success or failure. But what does good inventory management look like in this particular moment? Here are a few of the most important do's and don'ts to look out for.

1. Do Take a Detailed Inventory

To make any good decisions about your inventory, you'll need to start with the most up-to-date data. Regardless of your normal inventory or audit schedule, perform a thorough analysis of existing items. While doing this, put in a warehouse-wide effort to organize all inventory, ensure proper labeling, and secure certain items for possible transport.  

2. Don't Change Management Systems

The tendency for many businesses is to make large-scale changes with the move to a brand-new location. But keep in mind that your staff, systems, and routine is already experiencing a massive change in the physical move. If possible, maintain the same general process until you've completed the physical move, then transition in other changes. 

3. Do Slim Down Inventory

After taking stock of what you have in the warehouse, look for logical places to reduce volume. Start by culling out aged inventory that isn't turning over well. If you've considered dropping any product lines, do so now. Finally, cut back on orders and excess inventory storage so you have less to physically haul to the new warehouse.  

4. Don't Move All At Once

A phased move is one of the best ways to transition to a new space. It's often unrealistic to expect you can pack up your whole operation, take it to a new space, and pick up where you left off. Consider starting with one department or product line in the new space. Use this as a proving ground to make needed changes. Then, start scaling up the new facility's use as you experience success. 

5. Do Use Professional Movers

Something the size of a full inventory relocation isn't something most businesses should tackle as a DIY project. Just juggling the cataloging, packing, and unpacking of such a large quantity of individual items could wind up in chaos if done incorrectly. Look for a warehouse moving service that has a history with inventory moves of a similar size and scope.

Want to know more about getting your inventory from Warehouse A to Warehouse B intact and organized? Contact an experienced moving company in your area today.