How to prepare for a machinery move: a checklist for businesses

Updated 6 November 2026 · By the Heavy Equipment Movers team

Short answer: To prepare for a machinery move, gather each machine's weight, dimensions and lifting points, book electricians and engineers to isolate and reconnect services, and drain coolant, oil and hydraulic fluids where required. Clear and check the route and floor at both ends, mark the new positions, and agree a method statement and lift plan with your mover before the day.

How to prepare for a machinery move: a checklist for businesses

Weeks before the move

Collect manuals, weights, dimensions and lifting point details for each machine
Arrange a site survey with the mover
Confirm floor loadings and foundations at the new location
Mark out the new floor plan, including clearances for maintenance
Book electricians, engineers and the machine supplier for disconnection and commissioning

The days before

Back up CNC programs, parameters and machine settings
Drain coolant and, where the manufacturer advises, oil and hydraulic fluid
Remove or secure tooling, guards, doors and loose parts
Fit any transport locks or brackets supplied by the manufacturer
Clear the route of stock, racking and vehicles

On the day

Confirm the machine is isolated and locked off
Keep staff clear of the work area and lift exclusion zones
Have one named contact on site to make decisions
Check the new position before the machine is set down

After the move

The machine should be levelled, reconnected and commissioned by your engineers or the supplier, with accuracy checks before production restarts. Keep a record of the move, including the method statement and lift plan, with your equipment records.