Last Updated on September 16, 2024 by Kari-Ann Ryan
Universities, hospitals, and biotech companies with plans to relocate are urged to utilize a commercial moving service with experience moving lab equipment. This is because special preparation and execution are necessary to transport the equipment without causing damage to it and personnel.
What is lab equipment?
A range of lab equipment exists to further scientific research and objectives. Lab equipment includes delicate items, such as microscopes, centrifuges, and incubators. Test tubes, flasks, funnels, and beakers are made of fragile glass and demand careful handling during a commercial move.
Laboratory facilities may also house hot plates, magnetic stirrers, water baths, and Bunsen burners. Battery eliminators, which students use to conduct physics experiments, are commonly found in university science labs. Vernier calipers designed to measure depth and dimension are included.
What are the risks of moving lab equipment?
Lab equipment is not only fragile but expensive. Relocating these items is a challenge, as they can break or be lost during transport. Physical damage is possible when the goods are roughly handled or improperly packed. Damaged equipment is rendered useless and requires costly repairs or replacement.
Environmental damage is another risk of moving sensitive lab equipment. The equipment is susceptible to fluctuations in temperature as well as pressure and humidity. If the lab equipment is exposed to extreme temperatures, for instance, its calibration, accuracy, and functionality may be compromised.
Lab equipment is pricey, making it a target for thieves during transport. Secure handling of the equipment is crucial to preventing theft or loss. If the items are lost during the relocation, they can cause financial losses for the company and disrupt research activities.
What should be considered before moving lab equipment?
1. Prepare an Inventory List
Preparing a detailed inventory list of all lab equipment is the first step when planning a move. Document the make, model, and serial number of each piece of equipment. Also take note of specific handling instructions. Keep records of hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
2. Conduct a Risk Assessment
Transporting lab equipment comes with certain risks and hazards. Identify these risks by performing a risk assessment. Based on the assessment, develop a transportation plan that details emergency response procedures and contingency plans. Work with a moving company that utilizes a safety plan.
3. Obtain Permits
Transportation permits or hazardous materials permits may be necessary when transporting lab equipment. Remain in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements as well as environmental regulations, such as from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
4. Pack Properly
The proper packaging of the lab equipment is critical to ensuring it is transported safely and securely. Choose high-quality protective packing materials, such as shock-absorbing foam as well as standard packing materials, like bubble wrap and sturdy boxes, which guard against damage during transport
5. Label Boxes
Label the packed boxes with clear handling instructions. Boldly mark the fragility, orientation, and environmental requirements of each package. Color-coded labels are helpful to differentiate equipment and facilitate the unloading in the right room or area at the destination.
6. Communicate with Movers
Once a commercial moving service has been contracted, communicate clearly with the provider about transporting the fragile lab equipment. Certain lab equipment may require specific handling. Convey the handling instructions to the mover to ensure that the transportation process runs smoothly.
7. Position Equipment
The positioning of the lab equipment on the moving truck is critical to its safe transport. Ideally, the packaged lab equipment remains stabilized and balanced for the duration of the trip. Straps, chains or tie-downs can be effectively used to prevent shifting and achieve maximum stabilization.
8. Inspect Lab Equipment
Prior to the moving crew loading the lab equipment, inspect the packages. Look for missing parts or any signs of damage. Do the same once the lab equipment is unloaded at the destination. Document and report any damages to the commercial mover right away.
9. Monitor Temperature
As mentioned, certain lab equipment is sensitive to extreme temperatures. Rely on temperature monitoring devices, which track temperature and humidity levels, to help identify conditions that may cause damage to the items. Or hire a commercial mover with climate-controlled moving trucks.
10. Track with GPS
Since lab equipment is valuable, it is essential to keep track of its movement during transport. Use GPS tracking devices to monitor its progress and identify potential delays or deviations from the relocation plan. Alternately, some commercial movers provide customers with tracking information.
Significant planning and preparation are needed to safely transport expensive and fragile lab equipment. But by considering the above measures, laboratories can relocate their equipment with confidence. It’s also critical to choose a professional mover with experience moving lab equipment.
Mid-West Moving & Storage is experienced in helping laboratories relocate their equipment with ease. Our dedicated crews have moved over 1,000 labs in the last 6 years. We are certified by the International Office Moving Institute (IOMI) and have earned the distinction of an IOMI Lab Mover.
While we proudly hold the requisite certifications, we’re also equipped with specialized moving tools (hydraulic lifts and ramps), special equipment (rail lift gates and spider cranes), and special training (fire hazards and lab equipment storage) to ensure the relocation proceeds as planned.
Skilled moving specialists are key to the successful and safe transport of your valuable laboratory equipment to your new destination. We’ve seamlessly relocated high-profile companies, such as Alcatel Lucent and the University of Chicago. Our dedicated crews will do the same for your laboratory.
When you aim to reduce disruptions to your lab operations, choose a lab moving service that prioritizes the safety and security of lab equipment. Mid-West Moving & Storage’s swift and efficient services ensure that laboratories resume their research at their destination with minimum interruptions.
Mid-West Moving & Storage is Chicagoland’s preferred laboratory moving service for our budget-friendly options and commitment to excellent customer service. Join the ranks of our satisfied corporate customers by choosing us for your upcoming relocation.
Call our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, location today at 847.593.7201 or fill out a form online and request your free moving quote.
