Post-Move Facility Setup: Why Professional Services Make a Difference
Relocating your business is a complex process… and the move itself is only the beginning.
After all, the reality is once you've settled into your new space, that’s when the real work begins. It’s imperative to set up a productive environment that allows your team to thrive and get to work immediately.
Of course, while it may be tempting to handle the post-move setup yourself or rely on internal resources, professional services can make a world of difference.
Expert facility setup ensures your office is fully optimized, your employees can hit the ground running, and your business is up and operational faster. Here's why professional services should be part of your post-move strategy, along with three key service areas that ensure a seamless transition.
Furniture Assembly for an Efficient Workspace
Moving office furniture can seem like a simple task, but when you consider factors such as ergonomics, space optimization, and the overall flow of the workspace, it quickly becomes clear why professional furniture assembly is necessary. Expert assembly confirms that your office layout is designed to maximize space and enhance productivity.
At the same time, furniture assembly goes beyond just erecting desks and chairs. It involves guaranteeing that workstations are ergonomic, meeting areas are appropriately sized, and communal spaces like breakrooms and lounge areas are strategically placed for employee comfort and collaboration. A professional team can handle complex setups, including modular systems and custom designs, while saving you time and effort.
Professional service providers will work closely with your business to understand your space requirements and ensure everything is placed in a way that promotes both ease and efficiency—guaranteeing that all furniture is assembled quickly and correctly, so your employees can start working immediately without disruptions.
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Equipment and Asset Organization for Maximum Efficiency
Facilities support experts coordinate with their clients to determine their needs. Some moves may not require any post-move support, while others may need additional support, such as asset tracking, unpacking, or organization. Whether your move necessitates extensive support or minimal organization, a professional consultation can ensure you’re set up for success from start to finish.
This careful attention to detail makes it easier for your team to function at their best—and nothing important gets overlooked.
After a move, unpacking and organizing equipment, supplies, and assets can become a daunting task. A disorganized workspace can result in wasted time and confusion, which can ultimately affect productivity. Understanding the needs of each client helps facilitate the proper coordination that ensures everything is in the right place and easily accessible, reducing operational delays and mistakes.
When your assets are organized properly, employees can quickly find what they need, minimizing downtime and improving workflow efficiency. Professional teams can make certain that all inventory is cataloged, labeled, and placed in the correct locations, so your team can access everything from files and office supplies to sensitive equipment and technology.
Why Professional Setup Services Matter
Handling post-move setup with internal resources or minimal support can lead to inefficiencies, mistakes, and unnecessary delays.
When you rely on professional post-move services, you free up your team to focus on their core work and leave the logistics to the experts. The faster your workspace is set up, the sooner your employees can resume business operations, which keeps your customers happy and revenue rolling in.
Have More Questions About Post-Move Facility Setup?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Partner with Corovan for a Seamless Post-Move Experience
At Corovan, we understand that the post-move phase is critical to your company’s success. Our team of professionals provides comprehensive facility setup services that ensure a smooth and efficient transition. From expert furniture assembly to precise asset organization, we specialize in helping businesses get back on track while also experiencing minimal downtime.
Our services are designed to maximize productivity and confirm that your new facility is fully optimized from day one. Whether you’re moving into a larger office, downsizing, or opening a new location, Corovan is here to make the process seamless and stress-free.
Contact Corovan today to learn how our professional post-move services can help set your business up for success.
Inventory Accuracy 101: Why It Matters and How to Improve It
Effective inventory management is essential for maintaining a streamlined supply chain, meeting customer expectations, and maximizing profitability. Yet, many businesses struggle with inventory accuracy, and the consequences can be costly.
According to a recent survey, 43% of small businesses either do not track their inventory at all or rely on outdated manual methods. Inaccurate inventory management can lead to missed sales opportunities, excessive carrying costs, and upset customers—all of which negatively impact business growth.
In this post, we’ll explore the consequences of poor inventory management and highlight three practical strategies to improve accuracy and drive operational efficiency.
The Hazards of Inaccurate Inventory Management
When businesses don’t have a clear and accurate picture of their inventory, they face several challenges that can harm productivity and profitability:
1. Stockouts and Lost Sales
Inaccurate records can lead to stockouts, where products are unavailable when customers need them. This results in lost sales, diminished customer satisfaction, and potential damage to brand reputation. Customers may turn to competitors if they cannot rely on your business for timely fulfillment.
2. Overstocking and Excessive Holding Costs
Conversely, poor inventory tracking may cause overstocking of certain items, tying up capital and increasing storage costs. Overstocked goods also risk obsolescence or spoilage, particularly in industries dealing with perishable or seasonal items.
3. Inefficient Order Fulfillment
Picking errors caused by inaccurate inventory data slow down the fulfillment process and increase labor costs. Additionally, shipping the wrong items leads to returns, further eroding profit margins and customer trust.
4. Poor Forecasting
Inventory accuracy is part and parcel to effective demand forecasting. Without reliable data, businesses struggle to predict future needs, which leads to inefficient purchasing decisions, compounding the risk of stockouts or surpluses.
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Three Practical Steps to Improve Inventory Accuracy
To avoid these issues, businesses need a proactive approach to inventory management. Here are three strategies that can significantly improve accuracy:
Conduct Regular Audits
Inventory audits are an essential tool for maintaining accuracy. They involve physically counting products to ensure the quantities in your system match what’s on the shelves. Depending on your business size and inventory turnover, audits can be done in several ways:
- Annual or periodic audits for comprehensive reviews.
- Cycle counting, where portions of inventory are counted on a rotating basis, offers a more manageable approach and reduces disruptions.
Regular audits help identify discrepancies early and allow businesses to investigate root causes. Implementing a standard audit schedule keeps inventory records reliable and minimizes costly surprises.
Invest in Technology
Technology can transform inventory management by providing real-time tracking and minimizing human error.
Solutions like barcode scanners, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, and warehouse management systems (WMS) offer precise visibility into inventory levels and movement.
- Automated tracking eliminates manual entry errors.
- Integrated systems can synchronize inventory data across sales, shipping, and procurement, offering a holistic view of your supply chain.
Corovan’s inventory management solutions, powered by advanced tracking tools like the Corovan Customer Portal, help businesses maintain accuracy and streamline warehouse operations. Leveraging technology is one of the most impactful ways to reduce costs and improve service delivery.
Provide Ongoing Training
Even with the best systems in place, well-trained employees are critical to maintaining inventory accuracy.
Proper training ensures that warehouse staff understand how to use tracking technology, follow inventory processes, and handle items correctly to avoid damage or loss.
- Standard operating procedures (SOPs) should be clearly documented and regularly reviewed with employees.
- Refresher training sessions help maintain compliance with best practices, especially when new tools or processes are introduced.
Investing in training improves efficiency, reduces errors, and empowers employees to contribute to a culture of accuracy and continuous improvement.
Why Inventory Accuracy Matters
Maintaining accurate inventory isn’t just about numbers—it’s about ensuring smooth operations, reducing costs, and delivering excellent customer service. Businesses that prioritize inventory accuracy can optimize their resources, make informed decisions, and scale more effectively. In contrast, companies that overlook this critical element risk operational inefficiencies, rising costs, and lost revenue.
Have More Questions About Inventory Management?
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Partner with Corovan to Boost Your Inventory Accuracy
At Corovan, we specialize in inventory management solutions that help businesses eliminate inaccuracies and streamline their warehouse processes. From advanced tracking technology to expertly trained teams, we provide the tools and support needed to optimize your supply chain and improve profitability.
Contact us today to learn how our inventory management services can enhance your operations, reduce errors, and keep your business running smoothly.
Warehousing for Small Businesses: When Is It Time to Scale Up?
For small businesses, managing inventory effectively is key to success. At the start, many businesses operate with minimal storage—spare rooms, garages, or small rented spaces often suffice. However, as a business grows, these storage solutions can quickly become a bottleneck, hindering efficiency and limiting the company’s potential. Recognizing the signs that it’s time to scale up and understanding the transition to a warehouse or shared facility can help small businesses streamline operations and prepare for future growth.
Signs It’s Time to Scale Up Your Storage Solutions
Inventory Is Out of Control
If products are spilling into aisles, stacked in unsafe ways, or taking over every available space, your current storage solution has reached its limits. Disorganized inventory can lead to inefficiencies, such as longer retrieval times, lost items, or damaged stock.
Difficulty Fulfilling Orders on Time
If you’re struggling to keep up with customer orders due to storage chaos, it’s a major red flag. Late or incorrect shipments can harm customer satisfaction alongside your brand’s reputation, ultimately impacting sales.
Growing Product Lines
As your business expands its offerings, the need for more storage space grows, too. If new products can’t fit into your current facility or require constant reshuffling of existing stock, it’s time to consider scaling up.
Seasonal Surges Create Overload
If seasonal fluctuations or promotions push your storage to the brink, causing delays or errors, it’s a sign that your current solution isn’t sustainable long-term.
Lack of Space for Operations
Efficient storage goes beyond shelving and bins—it requires space for packaging, order fulfillment, and even office functions. If your team is constantly navigating cramped conditions, productivity is taking a hit.
You’re Ready to Scale Up the Business
When growth becomes part of your strategic plan, your infrastructure must align with your ambitions. Scaling up warehousing or storage solutions ensures you’re prepared for increased demand and larger inventory levels without scrambling. And to do this correctly, turn to an experienced warehousing provider, like Corovan, who has helped many small businesses with their scalability initiatives.
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Practical Steps for Transitioning to a Warehouse or Shared Facility
Once you’ve realized that it’s necessary to scale up, the next natural step is planning the transition. Here are practical tips to help small businesses take the leap.
Determine Your Needs
- Assess Current Inventory and Growth Projections: Understand how much space you currently need and factor in anticipated growth for the next 2–5 years.
- Identify Must-Have Features: Consider requirements such as loading docks, climate control, security, or proximity to shipping hubs.
Explore Different Warehouse Options
- Leasing a Dedicated Warehouse: If your business has steady growth, leasing a small warehouse may provide flexibility and control. Start with a smaller space and expand as needed.
- Shared Warehousing Facilities: For businesses with fluctuating storage needs, shared or co-warehousing facilities, like those offered by Corovan, offer a cost-effective option. These spaces allow you to rent only the space you need while sharing resources like equipment and staffing.
- Third-Party Logistics Providers (3PLs): A 3PL can manage warehousing, order fulfillment, and shipping, freeing you to focus on business growth without taking on the full responsibility of managing a warehouse.
Optimize Your Space from the Start
Once you transition, make the most of your new warehouse space.
- Invest in Smart Storage Solutions: Use vertical shelving, pallet racks, and organized zones to maximize efficiency.
- Implement Inventory Management Systems: Tools like barcode scanners and inventory software streamline stock tracking and order fulfillment.
Plan for Costs and Budgets
- Account for all expenses, including rent, utilities, labor, and equipment costs. Start with a space you can afford comfortably and scale up as business grows.
- Evaluate whether shared warehousing can provide savings, as you only pay for the space and services you use.
Streamline the Transition Process
Moving inventory can disrupt operations, so create a clear plan:
- Schedule the move during a slower period.
- Train staff on new warehouse workflows and systems to ensure a smooth transition.
- Partner with the professionals at Corovan for a seamless setup if moving large volumes of inventory.
The Benefits of Scaling Up
Investing in warehousing solutions can feel like a big leap, but the benefits often outweigh the challenges. A well-organized warehouse allows small businesses to:
- Improve Efficiency: Faster order fulfillment and streamlined operations lead to happier customers.
- Support Business Growth: Extra space allows you to expand product lines and handle larger order volumes.
Have More Questions About Scaling Up Your Small Business?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Partner with an Experienced Warehousing Vendor
Recognizing the right time to scale up your storage solutions is a pivotal moment for any small business. By transitioning to a dedicated warehouse or shared facility, you can improve efficiency, streamline operations, and set the stage for long-term growth.
With over 75 years of experience, Corovan is the warehousing provider of choice for small businesses looking to scale seamlessly. We specialize in tailored commercial storage solutions that meet your unique needs—whether you’re expanding product lines, preparing for seasonal peaks, or simply outgrowing your current space. Let us help you take your business to the next level with reliable, flexible, and cost-effective warehousing solutions.
Contact Corovan today to learn how we can support your business growth year-round.
Seasonal Warehousing: How to Prepare for Peaks and Lulls
Managing seasonal demand fluctuations in warehousing can be a challenging endeavor. Whether gearing up for your seasonal rush or preparing for slower times during the year, businesses must adopt proactive strategies to ensure efficiency, optimize space, and meet customer expectations.
Corovan is proud to offer actionable insights on inventory management, space allocation, and forecasting to help businesses handle peaks and lulls effectively.
1. Mastering Inventory Management During High-Demand Seasons
Inventory management is the cornerstone of seasonal warehousing success. For businesses reliant on seasonal demand, like Halloween stores or trade show organizers, careful inventory and equipment planning ensures you have the right products at the right time.
- Analyze Historical Data: Review past sales and inventory trends to identify patterns in customer demand. This data-driven approach allows you to order enough stock to meet demand without overstocking.
- Collaborate with Your Storage Vendors: Work with your storage provider to ensure timely deliveries for peak season surges. Corovan’s unique portal can help ensure that your stored inventory is ready for deployment BEFORE peak times.
- Implement Inventory Tracking Systems: Use inventory management software to track stock levels in real time. These platforms help prevent stockouts and overstocking by providing accurate data for decision-making.
2. Efficient Off-Season Storage
When your season ends, effective storage is critical to protect your assets and minimize costs. Warehousing providers like Corovan offer scalable storage solutions to fit your needs.
- Declutter Inventory: Removing the clutter of unneeded inventory, such as out of season styles, as well as equipment during off-season months can enable warehousing providers to increase efficiency and also lower costs.
- Explore Storage Options: Flexible storage options allow for more efficient storage and transport. Palletization and vault storage options not only decrease overall storage footprint, but save you money.
- Schedule Pick-up & Delivery: Some warehouse providers, like Corovan, also offer convenient pick up and drop off options for your items, saving you time.
3. Optimizing Space Allocation
Busy seasons often put pressure on warehouse space. Corovan’s scalable storage solutions ensure that excess inventory is safely stored during lulls and easily accessible during peak seasons.
- Reconfigure Layouts: Rearrange your warehouse to maximize space. Consider vertical storage solutions, such as shelving units, to use overhead space better.
- Temporary Storage Options: Renting additional storage space or investing in temporary warehousing solutions with Corovan can provide the extra capacity needed during peak seasons.
- Zone Your Warehouse: Create designated zones for fast-moving or frequently ordered items, which can streamline order fulfillment during busy times.
4. Accurate Inventory Forecasting
Forecasting is a critical component of seasonal preparation. Without accurate predictions, your warehouse risks either being overwhelmed or underutilized.
- Use Predictive Analytics: Invest in forecasting tools that leverage historical data, market trends, and customer behavior to predict future demand accurately.
- Monitor Market Fluctuations: Keep an eye on external factors such as industry trends, economic conditions, and competitor activity to adjust your forecasts accordingly.
- Anticipate Returns: Post-peak periods often bring a wave of product returns, especially after the holidays. Incorporate return processing into your forecasting and staffing plans to avoid bottlenecks.
5. Preparing for Seasonal Lulls
While much attention is given to peak seasons, planning for slow periods is equally important. Remember, the pendulum swings both ways. Seasonal lulls are the perfect time to reorganize, maintain equipment, and store inventory securely. Corovan can help you optimize your storage during downtime so you’re ready to hit the ground running as the next season approaches.
- Focus on Maintenance: Use quieter times to perform routine maintenance on equipment and update inventory management systems.
- Evaluate Performance: Analyze your warehouse’s performance during the peak season to identify areas for improvement or where efficiency could be enhanced.
- Optimize Stock Levels: Shift focus to slow-moving inventory and create strategies to clear out excess stock, such as through sales, special promotions, or product bundling.
Have More Questions About Seasonal Warehousing?
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Partner with an Experienced Commercial Storage Vendor
Preparing your warehouse for seasonal peaks and lulls requires careful planning, flexibility, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By mastering inventory management, staffing, space allocation, and forecasting, businesses can navigate these fluctuations effectively. With over 75 years of experience, Corovan specializes in helping seasonal businesses thrive. From off-season storage to pre-season deployment, we tailor our solutions to your unique needs. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business year-round. Reach out to us to learn how we could assist your organization.
Office Moves Without the Headaches: A Checklist for Stress-Free Transitions
Relocating an office can be a daunting task. From coordinating with movers to ensuring technology is correctly set up in the new location, there is indeed much to manage. However, with careful planning and organization, an office move can be relatively stress-free. As such, our team of commercial relocation experts has compiled this step-by-step guide for planning an office relocation—and have also highlighted some common mistakes to avoid so your company can realize a smooth transition to your new space.
Step 1: Start Planning Early
The key to a successful office move is starting the planning process well in advance. Ideally, begin prepping at least six months before the move. Working with this type of lead time will give you enough time to account for unexpected challenges.
Checklist Items:
- Set a timeline: Establish key dates for the move, including deadlines associated with packing, transporting, and setting up the new office space.
- Assign a project manager: Designate a person or dedicated team to oversee the move, making sure all aspects are managed and coordinated.
- Create a moving budget: Account for costs such as a commercial moving company, new office equipment, and any renovations.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Waiting until the last minute to begin planning. This can lead to rushed decisions and increased stress.
Step 2: Audit Your Office Inventory
Take stock of what you have in your current office space. This is an ideal time to declutter and decide what items should be moved, what could be made redundant, and what should be replaced. From office furniture to IT equipment, a thorough audit will help streamline your packing, and let you only bring what’s necessary to the new location.
Checklist Items:
- Take inventory: Make a detailed list of all items that need to be moved, including furniture, office supplies and technology.
- Purge unnecessary items: Dispose of, recycle, or donate outdated or unused equipment and supplies.
- Order new equipment: Identify any items that require replacing or upgrading prior to the move.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Carting along clutter to the new office. This will slow down the unpacking process, make the new space feel disorganized, and increase your company’s moving costs.
Step 3: Coordinate with Movers and Vendors
Securing a reputable commercial moving company is 100% essential for a smooth office relocation. In addition, it may be likely that you will need to coordinate with other vendors, including your current suppliers, utilities and IT support providers, and the like.
Checklist Items:
- Get quotes: Contact multiple moving companies to obtain quotes and compare services. Be sure to check reviews and only work with a mover who is experienced in commercial moves.
- Communicate with IT: Coordinate with your IT team or a third-party service provider to confirm all technology, including servers, computers, phones, etc., is properly disconnected, transported, and reconnected at the new space.
- Notify service providers: Inform vendors, such as Internet, phone, and utility providers about your move so downtime is minimized.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Failing to book commercial movers or coordinate with vendors early enough. This can result in scheduling conflicts, prevent business continuity, and lead to decreased customer satisfaction.
Step 4: Communicate with Employees
Office moves can feel stressful and confusing to your workers. So, it’s important to keep them in the loop through all phases of the transition.
Checklist Items:
- Announce the move: Notify employees of the move as soon as possible. Include details such as the move date, new office location, and any changes in daily routines.
- Assign packing responsibilities: Encourage employees to pack their personal workspaces and label their boxes for easy unpacking.
- Share a moving day plan: Outline what employees can expect on moving day, including if they are responsible for moving personal items and what should be anticipated as setup takes place in the new space.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Leaving employees in the dark about moving plans. This can lead to anxiety, confusion, and impact morale.
Step 5: Update Address and Notify Stakeholders
Once the move is finalized, it’s crucial to make sure your business’s address is updated and your stakeholders are notified. This includes clients, partners, vendors, and other relevant parties.
Checklist Items:
- Update business address: Change your address with the postal service, banks, government agencies, and other official entities.
- Notify clients and partners: Send out communications to key stakeholders to inform them of the new location and ensure they have your contact information.
- Update online listings: Confirm your business’s address is updated on your website, Google My Business, social medial profiles, and other online platforms.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Forgetting to update your address everywhere it is listed. This can result in missed deliveries, payments, or lost business opportunities.
Step 6: Set Up the New Space
Once the move has been completed, the final step is to get your new office space operable and ready for business. Focus on setting up new technology, organizing workstations, and guaranteeing employees can get back up and running with minimal headaches.
Checklist Items:
- Set up IT systems: Confirm all computers, servers, and phone systems are properly installed and tested.
- Arrange workstations: Organize desks and office furniture in a layout that supports workflow and encourages productivity.
- Test the office environment: Check the heating, cooling, lighting, and other office systems. Make sure all is functioning correctly, and employees are comfortable.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Rushing to get the office setup without also testing all systems. This can lead to delays and employee frustration.
Have More Questions About Stress Free Office Moves?
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Partner with Corovan on Your Office Move
Office moves can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. However, when you partner with a commercial moving expert like Corovan, you can make sure your office move goes off without a hitch. We’d love to help you plan each step of the process and ensure your commercial move is a success. Reach out to us directly for more information.
The Role of Cybersecurity in Modern Warehousing
No matter which industry you’re in, the threat of cyberattack looms large. Computer-based criminals are crafty when it comes to accessing restricted information and using it to leverage a ransom; or else, simply infiltrating your network with malicious viruses.
The threat of a cyberattack is present even in a warehouse setting. Modern warehousing is increasingly reliant on digital technology to automate processes and to ensure robust inventory management… but those benefits come with a significant downside. Simply put, a cyberattack can prove crippling to the modern warehouse. And if your inventory information is stored by that warehouse, that cyberattack can negatively impact your business operations, too.
Why are Warehouses at Risk?
When you think of industries or work settings that are uniquely vulnerable to cyberattacks, warehouses may not initially come to mind. However, there are a few reasons why warehouses are big targets for hackers and other assailants.
- Warehouses often handle a lot of private inventory information related to vendors, suppliers, and customers. Unauthorized access to this information can create both financial and reputational costs.
- Modern warehouses rely heavily on connected technologies for inventory management, order processing, and logistics. A cyberattack could disrupt these systems, compromising operational continuity.
- Warehouses are a critical part of the supply chain. Cyber threats targeting warehouse systems can have cascading effects on the rest of the chain, affecting the delivery and availability of all manner of goods.
This all underscores the point: If you’re storing your business assets in a warehouse, it’s crucial to ask your storage partner about their IT security standards related to your inventory information.
What are the Best Practices for Warehouse Cybersecurity?
For modern warehouses looking to implement more robust cybersecurity measures, there are a few essential steps and strategies. More than anything else, it’s important to work with a storage partner that can help you prioritize the integrity of your inventory information.
Ensure Network Security
From firewalls to intrusion detection systems, there are countless protocols that can keep your network safe and secure. Working with an experienced storage company is essential for implementing these protocols effectively.
Create Access Controls
One of the most significant cybersecurity risk factors is having inventory information that can be accessed easily by many different employees, partners, or vendors. Being more restrictive in who has access can help minimize vulnerabilities. Again, choosing a storage partner with a cybersecurity focus can go a long way here.
Employee Training
Cyberattacks often happen as a result of employee error. One of the best ways to ensure your inventory information is safe and secure is to ensure proper training. The right storage partner can work with your in-house IT team to ensure the right level of awareness when it comes to accessing this information.
Incident Response
Even with the most rigorous safeguards in place, cyberattacks can still happen. Ask your storage partner about their strategy for addressing incidents and managing cybersecurity leaks.
Have More Questions About Warehouse Cyber Security?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Choose Corovan for Your Warehousing Needs
For more than 75 years, Corovan has been a leading name in warehousing and storage. Today, we have a stalwart reputation for putting our clients’ cybersecurity needs first, ensuring sophisticated protocols to keep hackers at bay.
We’d love to tell you more about our approach to protecting your inventory information. Reach out to the Corovan team whenever you’re ready to chat.
Essential Steps for Managing Large-Scale Data Migrations
Migrating business data from one IT infrastructure to another can be challenging, whether it’s part of a full-scale relocation or simply an overhaul of the existing tech ecosystem. It’s crucial for businesses to take a strategic approach, minimizing their risk of data loss or of significant down time.
Tips for Large-Scale Data Migration
Determine the Scope and Objectives of Your Data Migration
A good starting point is to set the parameters for your data migration. Take stock of the reasons why you’re moving data in the first place… for example, to reduce IT costs, or because your entire team is shifting into a new workplace. Also clarify the scope of the project: Which data sets are being moved? And will the migration entail databases alone, or full IT systems?
Create a Data Migration Team
With any relocation project, it helps to assemble an internal team who can run point, not only ensuring adherence to your strategic plan but also interfacing with the IT vendors who help facilitate the process. Put together a cross-functional team that includes different stakeholders from your organization, including members of your IT team. Assign each team member responsibilities for executing a successful data migration.
Assess Your Data
Again, it’s important to have a clear sense of the kinds of data you’ll be migrating. Document all data types, sources, and formats. Take stock of how relevant and up to date your data is, and clean and validate data as needed.
Establish Your Data Migration Plan
When it comes to building out a data migration strategy, there are a few considerations to keep top-of-mind:
- You may decide to do either an all-at-once approach or to migrate data in phases; this decision will have a big impact on any workplace disruptions or downtime.
- If you do take a phased approach, it’s important to delineate your project milestones and deadlines.
- Also think in terms of resource allocation: What tools and technologies do you need? And what kind of budget?
Choose the Right Tools
The question of tools and technologies is particularly important. Make sure you have the right programs to assist you with data transfer and validation. Also ensure backup solutions to prevent any data loss as part of the migration process.
Think in Terms of Risk Management
To mediate risk during your data migration process, there are a few steps you may wish to consider:
- Direct your IT team to run a trial or simulated migration, which can be incredibly helpful for identifying potential issues or friction points.
- After your trial migration, verify that the data remains both intact and accessible.
- Again, make sure you’re using the appropriate data backups to mediate the effects of data loss or theft.
Have More Questions About Large-Scale Data Migrations?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Work with Experienced Vendors to Ensure a Smooth Migration
If you’re planning a business relocation and want to ensure your IT migration is successful, it’s vital to pick the right movers. At Corovan, we have more than 75 years as the commercial relocation vendors of choice in California and across the country. Reach out to us to learn more about planning and executing a smooth and seamless move.
The Hidden Costs of Contractor-Based Crews: What You Need to Know
When selecting a commercial moving or logistics service provider, the decision often comes down to pricing and efficiency. However, one critical factor often overlooked is whether the company relies on solely contractor-based crews or its own W-2 employees. At first glance, exclusively using contractor-based crews may appear cost-effective, but this approach can also have some hidden risks that ultimately shift the burden to your business.
Why Do Some Commercial Movers Use Fully Contractor-Based Crews?
Ultimately, some companies in the commercial moving and logistics industries opt for contractor-based crews to minimize overhead costs and streamline their operations. Contractors typically own their trucks, supply their labor, and are compensated on a per-job basis. This model allows companies to bypass the expenses associated with maintaining a full-time workforce, such as salaries, benefits, and workers’ compensation insurance.
From a business perspective, this approach might seem like a savvy financial decision, allowing for easy scaling and reduced operational costs. However, what is essential here is to realize that this flexibility and cost-cutting often impact service quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
When the Risks Are Shifted to Your Business
When a commercial mover relies solely on contractors, they are essentially outsourcing responsibility—not just for the logistics of the job but for legal and regulatory compliance as well. This transfer of the responsibility can expose your business—as the customer—to significant risks in several ways, including:
- Compliance Issues: Contractors operate as independent entities, which means they might not adhere to the same standards of training, certification, or quality that a company’s full-time employees would. As such, if a contractor fails to comply with legal requirements—be it licensing, insurance, or workers’ comp—your business could be held liable in the event of accidents or violations.
- Inconsistent Service Quality: Since contractors are paid on a per-job basis, there is little incentive for them to invest in long-term customer relationships or uphold consistent service standards. A contractor’s priority may be completing the job as soon as possible rather than ensuring the highest level of care, which could lead to damaged equipment or inventory, inefficient workflows, and negative results.
- Lack of Accountability: Contractor-based crews operate independently of the moving or logistics company that hires them, which means your business may have little recourse if an issue arises. Contractors may not be as responsive or invested in resolving complaints, and the hiring company might have limited control over the situation.
At the end of the day, these risks are transferred to your business, which leaves you vulnerable to problems that would be better handled by an employee-based team.
Why Corovan’s Employee-Based Approach Makes a World of Difference
At Corovan, while we do sometimes use fully-vetted contractors, we believe that the key to delivering reliable, high-quality service lies in our employee-based crews. By employing the vast majority of our workers directly, we ensure every team member is trained to meet our corporate standards of safety, professionalism, and efficiency. This creates a culture of accountability, where employees take pride in their work and our company’s reputation.
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Additionally, what further sets Corovan apart is our focus on employee ownership. As part-owners of the company, our employees have a personal stake in the business’s success. This drives them to go the extra mile in every job, guaranteeing consistency, reliability, and best-in-class service. Whether you’re moving an office or managing complex logistics, our employee-based crews deliver peace of mind that contractor-based operations simply cannot offer.
And we would love to tell you more about the Corovan difference. Reach out to us for a one-on-one consultation and learn why you should put your trust in our team.
Sustainable Office Relocations: Reducing Your Carbon Footprint
Of the world’s 250 largest companies, a whopping 96 percent regularly report on their sustainability practices. In other words, the most successful enterprises in the world have found it advantageous to set goals for eco-friendliness, and to hold themselves accountable via routine measuring and monitoring.
If your business has made a commitment to sustainability, whether internally or publicly, it’s important to seek every possible opportunity to incorporate environmentally friendly practices. This includes not just within your typical daily operations, but also in the midst of big projects, including office relocations.
Best Practices for Sustainable Relocations
There are several practices that any business can use when moving offices, helping them keep their sustainability goals front and center. Here are just a few of our top suggestions.
Use Eco-Friendly Packing Materials
Cardboard boxes and other single use packing materials can be cheap and easy to acquire, but they also generate huge quantities of waste. Seek a commercial relocation vendor that can provide you with a more sustainable alternative.
For an example of what this might look like, look no further than to Corocrates. These sturdy plastic crates are much more eco-friendly than traditional cardboard moving boxes. In fact, reusable Corocrates help us to save more than 900,000 cardboard boxes each and every year. They are the perfect way to make your relocation easier, safer, and more affordable.
Recycle and Purge
As you prepare for an office relocation, that’s an ideal time to take stock of the resources, materials, and supplies you’ll actually need at the new space… and to get rid of the stuff that’s outlived its usefulness.
A pre-move recycle and purge campaign provides you with a chance to shred old documents, collect materials that are no longer used, even donate old furniture that you’ll no longer require. This kind of activity not only helps you minimize trash and waste, but it can prevent you from the time and expense required to move superfluous items to your new facility.
Be Smart About Your Logistics.
Still another important way to minimize the environmental impact of your move is to be methodical about your logistics. Making fewer trips or using fewer large vehicles can potentially reduce the effect your relocation has on the environment, particularly with respect to carbon emissions.
Working with a proven logistics partner is a crucial way to ensure you’re planning a move that’s not just cost-effective, but environmentally efficient, too.
Invest in Eco-Friendly Furniture
Moving into a new office space will likely require you to purchase new furniture, but keep in mind that even this is an opportunity to promote sustainability.
Specifically, purchasing recycled or remanufactured furniture can lead to less energy usage and less landfill space, which can help you make meaningful strides toward achieving some of your corporate goals concerning the environment.
Have More Questions About Sustainable Office Moves?
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Make Your Move a Sustainable One
When moving to a new office, there are a number of ways in which you can put sustainability first. As you consider your options for an eco-friendly relocation, make sure you speak with a representative from Corovan. For more than 75 years we have been a trusted partner in commercial relocation, and we are committed to helping our clients achieve “green” moves that meet their own sustainability goals. Reach out to us to find out more.
Preparing for Climate Risks: What Facility Managers Need to Know
Climate change is hardly just some abstract concept. Increasingly, it’s affecting our daily lives, and seldom for the better. One of the most obvious ways in which climate change affects us is through the growing rate of climate-related disasters, from flooding to extreme temperatures.
While these disasters can impact any one of us as we go about our daily lives, they may be especially relevant to facilities managers. In fact, one of the greatest challenges facing facilities managers today is keeping their buildings and operations safe and resilient, even against climatological extremes.
How Can Facilities Managers Prepare for Climate-Related Catastrophes?
There are a number of steps facilities managers can take to ensure readiness.
Start with an Assessment
The first step is conducting a basic risk assessment. Climate-related risks will vary by region and geography, and a comprehensive analysis can help facilities managers identify their vulnerabilities: Wildfires, extreme heat, floods, hurricanes, etc.
Create and Distribute an Emergency Response Plan
Every business should have an emergency response plan that specifically addresses their most prominent risks. This plan should detail things like evacuation routes and designated safe areas. Make sure this plan is made readily available to everyone within the organization.
Train Your Team on Emergency Procedures
Another important step is ensuring that your team members know how to respond in the event of a disaster. Regular training sessions and drills can ensure that everyone is aware of their role in the emergency, including communication protocols.
Invest in Resilient Infrastructure
There are a number of ways in which facilities managers can augment their existing infrastructure, strengthening its resilience in the face of climate-related peril. Consider upgrades to flood barriers, reinforced roofs, and fire-resistant materials. Backup systems, such as generators and renewable energy sources, can also be helpful in times of crisis.
Plan for Supply Chain Management
A catastrophic disruption to your supply chain can significantly impede your business productivity, making it harder to meet your obligations to customers and clients. Plan in advance for potential disruptions by establishing relationships with multiple suppliers, allowing you to pivot if one supply chain gets cut off.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainable practices don’t just help you meet your environmental goals. They can also lead to greater resilience in times of disaster. For example, green energy sources or weather management systems can make it easier to get back on your feet following a flood or storm.
Integrate Technology
Advanced technology can help you maintain readiness, allowing you to respond quickly to changes in the weather. Even using automated weather alerts can help your team members to remain vigilant.
Have More Questions About Preparing for Climate Risks?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Ensure that Your Facilities are Ready for Anything
Climate change has brought a new kind of unpredictability to facilities management. Thankfully, there are simple steps that can help mediate uncertainty and limit risk. At Corovan, we are always happy to talk with facilities managers about their logistical concerns, including extreme weather considerations. Reach out to our team whenever you’d like!
Data Security Risks of Choosing Inexperienced Vendors
You’ve probably heard about the latest large-scale cybersecurity breach. It’s been widely reported that a third-party background check company may have inadvertently compromised the private data, including Social Security Numbers, of millions of Americans.
Needless to say, this is a bad look for National Public Data. It’s also a bad look for all the companies that chose that company as their background check vendor. And it raises an important point: To do everything you can to keep your sensitive data safe and secure, it’s vital that you exercise due diligence in your selection of third-party vendors.
Simply put, inexperienced vendors may not provide the robust cybersecurity protocols that you’d want, which compromises your ability to protect your consumers and to uphold your reputation.
The Judas Goat Analogy
To understand the outsized impact that inexperienced vendors can have, consider the analogy of the Judas goat. In the raising of livestock, a Judas goat is an animal that’s specially trained to associate with sheep or cattle, leading them (without their realizing it) into a slaughterhouse or onto a truck.
There are some parallels in vendor management, as well. By trusting the wrong vendor, you could inadvertently be led into situations where your cybersecurity vulnerabilities are exposed. And along the same lines, an inexperienced vendor, like the Judas goat, may lead hackers and other cyber threats directly into secure areas.
Key Data Security Risks
As you vet potential vendors, there are a handful of data security risks to keep top-of-mind. Awareness of these risks can help you steer clear of the “Judas goat” phenomenon.
- Lack of Security Expertise. Inexperienced vendors may not fully grasp data protection, leading to weak defenses. Examples can include poor encryption or inadequate access controls.
- Mismanagement of Permissions. Vendors might have more access than necessary, increasing the risk of data breaches. It’s crucial to limit the data that your vendors can access, and to carefully monitor their data use.
- Failure to Comply with Standards. Finally, inexperienced vendors may not meet regulatory requirements, exposing enterprises not just to cybersecurity threats but also to legal risks.
How to Mitigate These Threats
These data risks are real, but thankfully, there are some steps any business can take to mitigate the threat of a vendor-based security breach.
- Thorough Vetting of Potential Vendors. First and foremost is due diligence. Assess vendor experience and security practices before engagement. Ensure they have their own robust standards and that they are committed to ongoing cybersecurity training and awareness-raising.
- Regular Monitoring. Again, it’s important to continuously audit and monitor vendor access and data handling. Be prepared to revoke data permissions for vendors you no longer use, or vendors who simply no longer need access to particular types of data.
- Limit Access. Apply the principle of least privilege to minimize vendor exposure to sensitive data. In other words, you should provide access to sensitive data only when absolutely necessary, and only in proportion to the vendor’s scope of work.
Have More Questions About Choosing the Right Vendor?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Choosing Corovan as Your Commercial Relocation Vendor
As you look for third-party vendors who will put cybersecurity first, consider Corovan. We have decades of experience as a commercial relocation and storage team, and part of why companies trust us is that we are vigilant about data security. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can keep that information safe.
Unseen Threats: Unintentional Vulnerabilities to DoD Security Enterprise Operations
Even in enterprise-level organizations that take pride in robust data security, there is always some level of risk inherent. Unseen threats are always lurking, threatening a data breach that could lead to significant legal consequences, financial peril, or reputational damage.
To protect sensitive data and infrastructure, it’s crucial to acknowledge these unintentional vulnerabilities, and to make every reasonable effort to mitigate risk.
Understanding the Unseen Threat
Many of the most acute data security threats stem from relationships with third-party vendors and service providers. These business partners may not be acting from a place of malice, yet they can still inadvertently create security risks.
For example, working with a vendor or third-party partner may require you to provide them with access to sensitive information, whether that’s financial data, customer records, or your own intellectual property. And while you may have robust in-house measures to keep this information safe and secure, third-party vendors may not be as meticulous. Poor security standards or data hygiene on the part of your partners can place your own enterprise in jeopardy.
Strict Access Control & Monitoring
There are important steps that any enterprise can take to minimize their risk exposure, foremost among them imposing strict access controls for vendors and partners. Simply put, it is important to make sure that your partners only have access to the data they need, as opposed to having carte blanche access to your entire data infrastructure.
In addition to implementing access controls, develop a rhythm of regularly auditing the access you are providing to your partners. As the scope of work your partners take on changes, don’t hesitate to narrow their information access. Also make sure you revoke access from any partners you are no longer working with.
Vendor IT Security Compliance
Something else that’s important is making sure your vendors receive a clear, written outline of your company’s own IT standards. Make it apparent that you expect your partners to adhere to the same expectations as the rest of your team.
Again, a big part of this is restricting access to essential systems. Just as your employees are not all entitled to unfettered access, neither are your vendors and third-party partners.
Specialized Vendor Expertise
Another important step is being methodical in how you choose your vendors. Select them based not only on their own areas of expertise, but on their specialized knowledge in critical areas of IT security.
Sensitive Data Protection
Ensure that you establish clear protocols for how sensitive data is to be handled. For example, it is incredibly important to ensure that all mission-critical or proprietary data is encrypted, particularly when it is being handled by vendors from outside the organization.
Provide your vendors with data protection expectations and review those expectations regularly, particularly for any vendors with whom you hope to develop a long-term relationship.
Proactive Security Measures
Finally, work with your IT team to put proactive security measures into place. For example, conduct surprise security audits, enforce a zero-tolerance policy on social media sharing, and compartmentalize vendor access to sensitive information.
A proactive approach allows you to negate the risk of data loss before it ever happens, as opposed to taking a more reactive approach.
Have More Questions About Unseen Threats?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Learn More About Corovan’s IT Security Expertise
For more than 75 years, Corovan has been the commercial relocation and storage vendor of choice for enterprises across California and beyond. Your data security starts with you, and Corovan relocation processes to help you meet your goals. Contact us at your convenience to learn more about how we can help.