Hotel FF&E projects involve countless moving pieces, from sourcing high-quality furnishings to managing storage, delivery, and installation. To keep everything on track, early engagement from a relocation and logistics partner is essential. Selecting a specialist during the design phase ensures that every detail – furniture finishes, storage needs, and renovation logistics – is accounted for from the start. Working with the right partner streamlines the process, reduces costly delays, and protects valuable assets. Here’s why early planning is the key to a successful FF&E project.
Early involvement smooths FF&E process
So how does one begin an FF&E project with its myriad moving pieces? Don’t wait to pick a partner. Choose a relocation and logistics partner during the design phase. Before ordering the first piece of furniture, select a company that can inventory, assess quality, and store new items until they are ready for installation.
Early involvement means that a relocation and logistics partner understands the expectations the designer or architect has for that space – all the way down to the nitty-gritty of the fabrics selected and the finishes on the furniture. They must also understand the space. Is it a renovation or a new build? If it’s a renovation, what items are coming out, and how will they be disposed of? They should also be able to evaluate whether furnishings must be stored, replaced, repaired, refurbished, or donated.
For example, a historical site may have iconic pieces that need reconditioning. Pick an FF&E specialist that has established relationships with restoration experts and operates warehousing facilities enabling safe storage and retrieval of one-of-a-kind items.
Inventory and assess incoming items
This early involvement facilitates the acceptance, quality assurance, and storage of incoming inventory. Pick a partner that has trained personnel who visually inspect and photograph each piece as it arrives and note any damage, shortages, or design discrepancies. Providing this information in real-time, via an online dashboard, helps keep project timelines on track. Carrier claims for damage can be processed more quickly, shortages can be rectified, and incorrect items reordered.
Robust scheduling is a must
Scheduling is another critical component of every FF&E project. Choose a relocation and logistics partner that maintains online access to the project plan — room by room. A good scheduling system enables project managers to select each fixture, furnishing, and drapery in inventory and schedule it for installation in each room. The same warehouse management system that tracks inventory and schedules delivery can also show when each bed, dresser, etc., has been installed. Real-time visibility coupled with 24/7 access to a move specialist will help keep final punch lists short.
As the hotel industry prepares for significant updates to their spaces, planning well starts with strong partners, great technology, and outstanding communication at all phases of the project.