Four ways to minimise disruption during the lab moving process

When it comes to laying out a list of objectives to focus on during a lab move, minimising disruption always features highly. This is understandable on a number of levels – especially since funding and ongoing support and sustainability often depends on performance. Here we share four ways to ensure that disruption doesn’t get in the way of your long-term objectives during a lab relocation.

Plan ahead

Plan and prepare as much as possible for the move, taking into account every single aspect. Put together a project plan with key milestones that need to be achieved and allocate specific jobs to each individual. Don’t forget to include contingency time in case one stage runs over – this ensures you can stay on track no matter what happens, even when the unexpected occurs. Little issues could threaten to derail the entire process – so it’s worth making a separate list of things that could go wrong and how you’ll manage and mitigate problems as they arise.

Outsource to eliminate downtime

Where possible it may be sensible (and necessary) to outsource to a trusted partner during the move who can take on a portion of your day-to-day work. This takes the pressure off your lab and your team during relocation, but it also ensures that any disruption to the service itself and clients or end users is reduced or eliminated completely.

Be realistic with your expectations – and others

One mistake some lab managers make is failing to focus on what can go wrong – or making promises they can’t keep which become troublesome if things don’t go to plan. Be 100% realistic with your expectations on all levels – from the timing of the move and the delays it could bring to the outcome itself. Overpromising and underdelivering can affect staff morale, productivity, progress and customer satisfaction, so it’s very important to carefully consider the implications and communicate them properly whilst also making proper provisions for each aspect of the move.

Organise professional support throughout the process

Enlisting professional support is a sure-fire way to minimise disruption – since experts who are well-versed in the processes and know each aspect of a lab move inside out will be fully aware of what needs to be done and when. Consult them early on to ensure that they can help with the planning and preparation processes – as getting them in too late could cause further disruption and delays if they are required to redo or alter what’s already been done.

What to Consider When Organising International Laboratory Removals

Packing up and moving a scientific lab is a delicate and detailed operation in itself – but international laboratory removals involve an even more complex process that must be well thought out and carefully managed to ensure success. At Johnsons we’re well versed in the nuances of international laboratory removals. Here we share six key aspects to consider when relocating abroad.

Customs clearance

One principle difference between national lab moves and international laboratory removals is the requirement for customs clearance. Following a full audit of the equipment and materials destined for transportation your laboratory relocation specialists will need to make enquiries to determine the specific customs and declaration requirements in your destination country. Each nation has different rules and regulations – and it’s important to bear in mind that customs payments will need to be made to authorities on arrival.

Specialist equipment

Specialist equipment needs specialist care – for a number of reasons. The dismantling and packaging process will be crucial, as any damage can be financially difficult but also delays research and the set-up of the new laboratory. Weighing up costs, compatibility and processing involved in moving certain types of equipment can be useful, as it may be most cost-effective and safer to purchase new lab equipment on the other side.

Cold chain

Certain samples and items need to be transported at constant temperature – sometimes frozen, other times temperate. The reason behind this (safety, protection, prevention of spoiling) will dictate the handling and management of each substance or material. Specialist provision will need to be made from start to finish to ensure that temperature-controlled items are safely and securely transported.

Rules, regulations and documentation

International laboratory relocation comes with plenty of paperwork – as different rules and regulations apply at every step of the way. Your laboratory relocation specialists will advise you of the information required and can support you with the filling of forms and arranging permits, documentation and customs licences where necessary.

Hazardous and dangerous goods

Laboratories naturally tend to deal with materials and substances that can be classified as hazardous or dangerous goods. Whilst these items need specialist care and attention wherever they are transported, moving lab or medical equipment by air in particular adds a different dimension. This is where a specialist project manager will be essential, as they can review your materials thoroughly and ensure that each adheres to specific guidelines and regulations to avoid hold ups or difficulties at either border.

Get in touch today discover more about Johnsons global lab logistics and storage services.

 

Why Your Choice Of Laboratory Moving Company Counts

When it comes to laboratory relocation, specialist assistance is almost always required. Here we explain why lab moves can be so complex, and how to choose a reputable, responsible removals firm to help you organise your lab move confidently and cost-effectively.

Safety is key

First and foremost, safety (both for laboratory staff, transportation partners and the general public) must be considered. How will hazardous materials, chemicals and dangerous goods be packaged, transported and safely stored upon arrival? What documentation is needed? Regulations will need to be adhered to. Safety must be thoroughly considered before the move, with comprehensive plans put in place in conjunction with a dedicated dangerous goods specialist and the lab move project manager.

Packaging matters

How you pack and prepare lab equipment, medical equipment and certain substances and materials for transportation matters. You may need to ask for professional advice regarding packaging for specialist items. When dismantling equipment for reassembly it’s important to work in chronological order, with sensible, clear labelling applied to each component. An itinerary and inventory must also be generated to cover the move as a whole and prepare for every eventuality, with contingency time built in just in case.

Risk assessment and project management

Managing the move as a whole will become a full-time job for its duration, so it’s important to be prepared for the time and resources this may take up. It’s also key to have some experience of lab relocation, as this will guide your response and approach.

The importance of hiring professional lab movers

When you consider the myriad risks associated with lab moves as detailed above, specialist assistance becomes both relevant and essential. Whilst lab employees and management have a detailed and intimate knowledge of their equipment, materials and the nature of the relocation, transportation specialists will appreciate the project from a holistic perspective, focusing on the practical elements, regulatory compliance and any special provisions that will need to be made. Experience counts in this industry – even if you have a complex or unusual requirement, you want to be sure that the company you deal with is competent and confident in handling the project in question. Always ask for details of experience, accreditations and qualifications and relevant recent testimonials where possible.

In need of a professional laboratory moving company? Speak to our dedicated team today to learn more about our approach, experience and credentials.

As The Scientific Sector Grows In Britain, So Does Demand For UK Lab Services

The UK has long been a hub for scientific development in all sectors – from medical research and biological breakthroughs to the cutting-edge development of chemical agents and advancements. Government initiatives aim to attract companies from overseas to invest and grow in the UK, inviting them to take advantage of the talent base emerging from our universities. So how does this affect the need for UK lab services – and how can specialist companies enable this economic and educational growth nationwide?

UK lab services in demand as industry grows

Well-managed, high-functioning laboratory networks are crucially important to wider industry growth as a whole – and naturally UK lab services have a role to play. An increasing number of organisations outsource the bulk of their task management, safety, security and transportation needs as this is both cost-effective and efficient. As a result of the surge in the development of dedicated sites and educational establishments and culture of change, the UK lab services sector is growing year on year, with more specialist companies emerging to meet demand.

Cambridge pioneers Britain’s cultivation of scientific progress and research

Over the past couple of years Cambridge has been identified as one of the UK’s most prominent and important scientific hubs, with a host of prolific and respected educational institutions joined by global giants such as Thermo Fisher, Astra Zeneca and Phillips. The addition of new development within Cambridge Science Park in 2017 attracted a great number of organisations to the area, taking advantage of ample talent produced on their doorstep to produce results of national and international interest.

The North West hosts the UK’s largest collection of biotech labs

Alderley Park in the North West of England has long been home to pharma giant Astra Zeneca – but now the huge site has been completely redeveloped to host a diverse range of commercial and laboratory space alongside social and leisure facilities including bars and cafes. Completion of the 400 acre site is due within the next decade – but a number of organisations have already taken up residence or reserved places there as the space promises to be in high demand come 2020. It already incorporates a world-class bio and life sciences campus for Manchester University – with plans to extend the educational aspects of the facility to include greater scope for learning and research which will have global relevance in years to come.

Relocating your laboratory facility? Speak to us today to learn more about Johnsons Laboratory Logistics and how our services can ensure a smooth and successful move.

Great Expectations And Grand Discoveries at Cambridge Research Laboratory

Cambridge has consistently come out on top for scientific developments and breakthroughs throughout its rich history as an academic and educational institution. Over the years Cambridge research laboratories have produced multiple astounding discoveries with life-changing repercussions all over the globe. Here we share three of the most prolific and important discoveries to date – from humble beginnings in a Cambridge research laboratory to global reception and widespread critical acclaim.

Hope for Parkinson’s sufferers from research scientists at Cambridge University

In 2017 scientists in Cambridge discovered a naturally occurring steroid which promises to form the basis for a revolutionary treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Squalamine has been extensively investigated for use as an anti-cancer agent – but this new study showed that it dramatically inhibits and suppresses the formation of toxins thought to cause Parkinson’s. Clinical trials are now planned in the USA.

‘The most important scientific breakthrough of all time’

In 1953 University of Cambridge scientists Francis Crick and James Watson discovered DNA as we know it today – the double helix structure used as a basis for understanding the fundamental aspects of life itself, alongside the facilitation of various treatments and medical breakthroughs. It was voted the most important scientific breakthroughs of all time by 400 prominent UK academics in 2010.

A bright future for those living with long-term health conditions

At Cambridge Science Park, modern applications and a diverse range of companies at the forefront of scientific development and the creation of cutting-edge technology are consistently building on the site’s rich history of innovation and advancements. Cambridge Consultants announced new project MagLense in November 2017, an innovation that promises to be life changing for anyone dependent on implants or wearable devices. This smart device offers an alternative to current battery-powered options, which are restrictive due to their short lifespan. By contrast MagLense charges quickly and efficiently via wireless power sources, transforming the lives of many and potentially opening up implant technology for use in areas of the body that were previously inaccessible. For people with chronic and episodic conditions such as epilepsy, diabetes and depression the discovery could be game changing, with the true scale of wider positive consequences stemming from MagLense not yet known.

Considering a laboratory relocation to Cambridge or within the Cambridge area? Get in touch with our experienced team of professional lab movers today.

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