How Modular Buildings are Relocated

How Are Smartpods Relocated?

One of the key advantages of choosing a SmartPod is its unique modular design, allowing it to be effortlessly collected and relocated whenever needed. We handle all the logistics for you, so if the need arises, simply get in touch and we’ll take care of everything.

We appreciate that relocating a previously installed SmartPod might sound like a daunting prospect, immediately worrying there’s a lot to consider, from planning and groundwork to transport logistics and final set-up. Yet with our proper guidance and support, it can be a smooth experience. Below, we’ll provide an in-depth look at each step in the relocation process, highlighting how our professional team can assist to ensure you have all the information and confidence you need.

How Modular Buildings are Relocated by Smartpod

1. Assessing Requirements

We begin by clarifying why you’re moving your SmartPod and what you hope to gain. Determine the budget for transport, groundwork, and reconnections, and check if planning permission applies. With these insights in hand, you’ll confidently map out your project scope and ensure your relocation aligns with future needs and goals.

2. Evaluating Existing Pod

Inspecting every aspect of your SmartPod, from structural integrity to interiors and utilities. Spot any repairs or improvements that can be tackled beforehand. Assess whether insulation, décor, or fittings need updating. By identifying issues early, you’ll avoid surprises and maximise the potential of your pod’s relocation and seamless ongoing functionality.

3. New Site Preparation

Ensuring the new location is level and stable, with a solid foundation ready for installation. Arranging necessary services, such as electricity, water, and internet, to match your SmartPod’s requirements. Investigate local regulations to confirm compliance. Proper planning here prevents delays, ensuring a trouble-free overall transition for your new setup.

4. Disconnecting and Dismantling

Safely shutting off your SmartPod’s utilities—electricity, plumbing, and data. Removing or stabilising built-in features to protect them from damage. A clean reveals hidden maintenance needs before relocating. Label everything for quick reassembly. By following procedures, you ensure all components stay intact, making reinstallation easier and reducing complications during the move.

5. Transportation Logistics

Your SmartPod travels on a low loader trailer, lifted by a HIAB crane for loading and unloading. We plan routes to avoid tight lanes, weight restrictions, or low bridges. Scheduling outside peak traffic reduces delays. This careful coordination safeguards your SmartPod and ensures a straightforward journey to its new destination.

6. Reinstallation at New Site

On arrival, a HIAB crane positions the SmartPod onto a prepared foundation, ensuring it’s perfectly level. Skilled professionals then reconnect electricity, water, and data, testing each service for reliability. Any finishing touches—like resealing windows—are completed to guarantee comfort and durability. Your newly relocated SmartPod is soon ready for immediate use.

7. Optional Updates of Pod

1. Assessing Your Requirements

Clarifying the Purpose of Your Move

Before you embark on relocation, it’s essential to establish precisely why you’re moving your SmartPod. Are you seeking to create more space for your home office? Are you relocating your business to new premises? Understanding your motivation helps us tailor our recommendations—from suggesting the most suitable new site to identifying potential improvements that align with your goals.

Evaluating Cost and Feasibility

Relocating a SmartPod is typically more economical than purchasing a new one, but there are still costs to consider. Transport, site preparation, reconnection of utilities and any desired upgrades all add up. We can offer budgetary guidance and detailed quotes upfront, so you have a clear idea of the overall investment.

Gathering Essential Documents

In some instances, relocating a structure—even a portable one—may require consultation with local planning authorities or adherence to building regulations, especially if the new location is subject to specific rules. Our team can advise on any required permissions and assist with documentation, ensuring you’re compliant from the outset.

2. Evaluating the Existing Pod

Comprehensive “Pod Health Check”

Over time, normal wear and tear can affect your SmartPod’s condition. We recommend conducting a full inspection covering:

Structural Integrity: Check external cladding, roofing, windows and doors for any damage or leaks.
Interior Fit-Out: Inspect floors, walls, fixtures and fittings to see if they remain secure.
Utility Installations: Test any built-in electrics, plumbing or heating systems.

Considering Upgrades and Refurbishments

With your SmartPod in transit, it’s the perfect time to incorporate enhancements. Whether you’re adding modern insulation, installing smart technology or updating the interior décor, we can help you decide which upgrades offer the best value for your needs. If you’d prefer a turnkey service, we can coordinate any necessary works before or during relocation for a seamless process.

3. Site Preparation at the New Location

Checking Ground Conditions

A level, well-prepared base is crucial for the long-term stability of your SmartPod. Our team offers site surveys to determine soil type, drainage and slope. Depending on the condition of the ground, you may need:

A concrete slab or reinforced base for larger pods.
Ground screws or other sustainable foundations.
Additional drainage solutions if the area is prone to waterlogging.

By taking a tailored approach, we help ensure your SmartPod sits on a foundation that safeguards its structural integrity in all weathers.

Utility Services and Connectivity

Thinking ahead about the connections your SmartPod requires saves time once it’s installed. Our team can liaise with local utility providers, ensuring that provisions for electricity, water, internet and waste disposal are in place and properly situated. This avoids last-minute surprises or the frustration of discovering that cables need rerouting after the pod has arrived.

Planning Permissions and Regulations

Depending on your chosen location, planning permission might be necessary (particularly if the new site is within a conservation area, or if the structure is intended for permanent use). We’re well-versed in local regulations and can advise on potential hurdles, guiding you through any necessary paperwork.

4. Disconnection and Dismantling

Safely Isolating Services

When the time comes to move your SmartPod, safely disconnecting existing utilities is paramount. From electrical wiring and plumbing to data cables, our technicians follow strict procedures to ensure every service is properly isolated. This minimises damage risk to the SmartPod itself and prevents potential hazards during transit.

Protecting Interior Fixtures

Many SmartPods are customised with integrated furniture or fixtures. We can help carefully remove, secure or label these items, ensuring they’re protected en route. For built-in components that must remain inside, we’ll stabilise them to prevent breakages or internal damage.

Initial Cleaning and Preparation

Relocating is an opportune moment for a little tidying up. We suggest a basic interior and exterior clean before dismantling. This not only means your SmartPod arrives fresh and ready to use, but also makes it easier to spot any hidden wear and tear that might need attention.

5. Transportation Logistics

How We Transport Your SmartPod

Our standard delivery method for SmartPods is by low loader trailer, accompanied by a HIAB (crane) to lift and place the SmartPod at both ends of the journey. This specialist equipment ensures a smooth, secure pick-up and drop-off, reducing any risk of damage.

Planning Routes and Timing

We coordinate with experienced drivers and transport teams, selecting routes that can accommodate a low loader and avoiding height or weight restrictions. We typically schedule moves during less congested times, saving you delays and complications.

Peace of Mind

Our goal is to handle all the tricky logistics so you don’t have to. From booking the low loader and HIAB to double-checking road regulations, we manage the entire process, leaving you free to focus on other priorities.

6. Reinstallation and Setup

Positioning and Levelling

Once on-site, our team uses the HIAB crane to offload and position your SmartPod exactly where you want it. We then confirm the SmartPod is perfectly level, which prevents long-term structural issues and ensures doors and windows open smoothly.

Reconnecting Utilities

Our certified tradespeople will reconnect electricity, water and other services according to local codes. This thorough approach includes testing electrics, checking plumbing joints and ensuring heating or cooling systems are running properly.

Final Inspection

After installation, we’ll complete a detailed inspection, verifying doors, windows, fixtures and utilities are all functioning as intended. If everything checks out, you’ll be able to start enjoying your SmartPod right away.

7. Personalising Your New Space

Interior Decor and Design

Relocation is a great excuse to refresh your SmartPod’s look. Our design specialists can suggest colour schemes, flooring options, lighting and furnishings, helping you create a workspace or relaxation spot that truly reflects your style and needs.

Ongoing Maintenance

Well-timed check-ups keep your SmartPod in tip-top shape. We offer maintenance packages covering everything from external cladding care to electrical inspections. Should you need assistance post-relocation, our friendly support team is always just a phone call away.

Future Upgrades

Consider your relocated SmartPod as a long-term investment. Whether it’s solar panels for greater energy efficiency or integrated smart-home features, we can guide you through innovative improvements to enhance functionality for years to come.

Relocating a SmartPod may sound complicated, but with the right strategy and professional assistance, it can be surprisingly straightforward. Our comprehensive approach takes care of each step—from meticulous site assessments and secure dismantling to specialist transport, expert reinstallation and aftercare—so you can enjoy a stress-free move and a revitalised, fully functional SmartPod in its new location.

If you’d like specific guidance or a personalised quote, get in touch with our friendly team. We’re here to help you relocate your SmartPod with confidence, ensuring it serves you brilliantly for many years to come.

Need Further Assistance?

Feel free to contact us about any of our modular buildings for education, retail, leisure, and business.