Lab relocation checklist: 15 steps before, during and after

6–8 weeks before

• Appoint one move owner in the lab who can make decisions.
• Build an equipment list with dimensions, weight, serial number and destination room.
• Ask manufacturers for moving instructions for every sensitive instrument.
• Get the new lab's floor plan and mark a position for each item.

2–4 weeks before

• Book manufacturer engineers for instruments that need disconnection or calibration.
• Plan frozen samples: backup freezer, dry ice or a portable freezer.
• Arrange chemical and hazardous waste removal through a licensed contractor.
• Check power, gases, exhaust and freezer positions in the new space.

Moving day

• Freezers are disconnected last and reconnected first.
• A lab representative is available at both sites.
• Every item is checked against the list on unloading.

After the move

• Wait before switching on freezers, per the manufacturer.
• Recertify biosafety cabinets before use.
• Calibrate balances, pipettes and analytical instruments.
• Report any damage in writing within 48 hours.

More guides

• Moving an electron microscope: what to knowHow to relocate an electron microscope: work with the manufacturer's engineer, secure the column, move without vibration and prepare the new room.
• Moving an optical table without losing levelHow to move an optical table: remove components, lock the isolators, lift a heavy top, plan narrow openings and re-level at the new site.
• Moving equipment into and out of a cleanroomHow to move equipment into a cleanroom: clean and double-bag, enter through the airlock, gown the crew correctly and run classification tests after.
• Insurance when moving expensive equipment: what to checkWhat to check about insurance before moving expensive equipment: coverage amount, exclusions, documentation before the move and how to report damage.