4 Tips for Seamlessly Moving Medical Equipment

A Guide for Healthcare Equipment Managers

In healthcare environments, downtime is minimal, making a seamless move a challenging endeavor. Achieving this goal demands a comprehensive plan, meticulous timing, and execution by a logistics company experienced in handling delicate, high-value equipment. This guide delves into crucial considerations healthcare equipment managers must ponder when relocating their facility’s medical equipment. Let’s explore tips for moving medical equipment in more depth.

#1 Experience Matters Most

Experience is paramount in handling medical equipment. It is imperative to seek a company with a proven track record in successfully transporting healthcare equipment. Movers possessing such experience comprehend the necessity of safely disassembling, packing, transporting, and reassembling fragile, high-value equipment. Reviewing testimonials and case studies and conversing with past customers can provide insight into the level of care they offer.

#2 Develop a Comprehensive Moving Plan

Each medical facility relocation project is unique. A reputable moving company should meticulously inventory each piece of equipment and craft a comprehensive plan outlining the steps for their safe relocation. This customized approach minimizes mishandling and damage during transportation. A detailed move plan should address various aspects:

• Who are the official points of contact (including their contact details)?
• What will need to be moved?
• What is the condition of each piece pre-move?
• Are there any special handling requirements (or training required)?
• What will need to be disassembled?
• What will need to be packed?
• Does the temperature of the equipment need to be controlled?
• How will the moving company pack the equipment?
• How will the equipment be transported?
• When will each phase take place?
• How long will each phase take to complete?
• Are there any crucial deadlines?
• Is there a need for additional insurance, permits, clearances, HAZMAT, or documentation?
• Are there any regulations or standards that apply to the relocation of the equipment?
• Where will the equipment need to be placed?
• What is the condition of each piece post-move?
• Which equipment requires reassembly and calibration?
• Who will manage troubleshooting?
• Who will sign off on the completed move?

#3 Keep Lines of Communication Open

Similar to the constant updates received from medical professionals, maintaining open communication with the moving company is vital. Reviewing the moving plan and timelines beforehand and staying in close contact with the moving team allows for swift adjustments as circumstances change. Regular updates on move progress and availability of key equipment pieces aid in minimizing downtime and preserving patient care continuity.

#4 Pre- and Post-Move Support & Technical Assistance

One of the most important reasons to use an experienced moving company is that relocating medical equipment involves much more than transporting it from one place to another. You need a company that will inventory each piece and track its location throughout the process. Some equipment will be extremely sensitive and require expert packing skills to ensure its safety. Disassembly and reassembly of these and other pieces will also need to be handled with care. If there is any troubleshooting needed, it is important to have a team that can manage this function as well. This level of support is essential for equipment that facilitates patient care.

Interstate Logistics for Seamless Medical Equipment Moves

Now that you know how important it is to select a moving company that has experience handling sensitive medical equipment, we’d like to offer you a solution. Interstate Logistics has been helping federal, state, and local governments, universities, and commercial enterprises move for more than 80 years. Interstate attributes its long-standing success to its commitment to delivering quality, treating people with respect, and exhibiting outstanding professionalism. To learn more about Interstate Logistics’ Healthcare Solutions, visit us on the web or call us today at 800.745.6683.