University of Southampton Business School

Client overview

The University of Southampton, a leading research-intensive institution, boasts a vibrant community of over 22,000 students. Recognised for its academic excellence, it ranks 12th in the UK and 81st globally. The university spans seven campuses, with the main one situated in the Highfield area of Southampton, complemented by four additional campuses within the city.

In March 2024, Bishop’s Move was entrusted with a significant relocation project for the university. Over a period of seven days, the team executed the move with precision and on schedule, ensuring zero disruption to university activities.

Clients requirements

The University of Southampton tasked our team with relocating its business school, including 210 staff members, personal effects, filing, IT equipment, and selected storage and meeting room furniture to their new location on the Boldrewood Innovation Campus. The move required meticulous planning and flawless execution. The client had specific requirements, including:

• Detailed planning and on-site surveys.
• Pre-move support to assist all staff with packing their files.
• Relocation of 1,100 crates over a weekend using 25 vehicle loads.
• A dedicated on-site Move Manager to coordinate a specialist team of porters.
• Relocation of 100 chairs and the specialized transportation of a 2-meter-tall rabbit statue and gym equipment.
• Post-move support to help all staff unpack over a period of three days.
• Cleaning and clearance of the vacated office space.

Relocation details 

Moved From: University Road  Southampton

Moved To – Bassett Avenue Southampton

Number of Phases: 1

Execution and Management

The relocation project faced several significant challenges, which our professionally trained porters addressed with tailored solutions. Ensuring zero disruption to staff and students was paramount, as was maintaining the safety of all site users amidst large volumes of traffic. The team also had to navigate the complexities of working in an old building with two small, unreliable lifts and poor access, which restricted the move to small vehicles only. Despite these obstacles, the Relocation Team meticulously planned and executed the move to meet the client's specific needs.

To conclude

The successful relocation of the University of Southampton's business school by Bishop's Move showcases the company's expertise in handling complex moves with precision and care. Despite the significant challenges caused by access restrictions, unreliable lifts, and the need to use small vehicles, the meticulous planning actioned pre-move ensured that all problems were overcome and that the day-to-day routine for staff and students remained unaffected. The collaboration between the University of Southampton and Bishop's Move highlights the importance of choosing a reliable and experienced partner for large-scale moves.