Equipment that will not fit the new premises
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Establish the exact mismatch before deciding an asset cannot go to the new premises. It may concern the machine's footprint, the route into the building, services or the space needed to use and maintain it. Those are different questions requiring appropriate assessment.
Do not solve a fit problem by assuming guards can be removed, doors altered or services adapted. Ask competent specialists to assess the actual arrangement and any permissions needed.
Prepare a fit question sheet
| Area | Information to gather | Question for the responsible specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Asset dimensions | Verified source, configuration and included components | Which dimensions apply to the proposed move and installation? |
| Access route | Site plans and known restrictions | Can the proposed route be used under a suitable plan? |
| Operating area | Intended task and surrounding equipment | What space and separation are needed for the intended use? |
| Services | Available records for machine and premises | Are the proposed services suitable, and what work requires assessment? |
| Building conditions | Relevant site information and uncertainties | What structural or premises checks are needed? |
| Future access | Maintenance and removal needs | Will the arrangement remain workable after other equipment is installed? |
Record the source and date of measurements. An estimated height should remain labelled as estimated until verified; rounding it down to make a drawing fit creates a misleading brief.
Identify what is already known
A seller can collect manuals, identification photographs and available plans without pretending to complete an engineering assessment. Keep unknowns in a separate list with a person assigned to obtain the answer.
HSE's contractor guidance supports the need to exchange relevant information and coordinate work. The fit sheet is an input to that process, not a substitute for it.
Use the removal-constraint record to describe restrictions at the old site as well. A move has an origin and a destination; confirming only the destination leaves half the physical problem unexamined.
Revisit the commercial choice when the facts change
Once the assessment is available, compare the feasible options through the move-or-sell worksheet. Include quoted work, timing and any alternative equipment that would be needed. A machine that can technically be accommodated may still be an expensive fit for its expected use.
Carry the decision into the relocation asset register so the move team and sale team use the same destination status. Do not leave an item on both lists while the answer is unresolved.
Use the relocation budget for costs that require approval. Then discuss confirmed sale candidates with UK Auction Group, explaining why they are available and what collection constraints remain at the current site.
Explore the surplus and relocation guides.
Sources
- UK Auction Group: mergers and surplus Checked
- HSE: using contractors Checked
This guide gives general information. Equipment-specific, legal, tax and safety decisions may need a qualified adviser or competent specialist. The guides do not promise sale prices, fees or results.