How to Plan a Secure Data Centre Relocation (UK)

Relocating a data centre is one of the most complex and high-risk IT projects any organisation can undertake.

Whether consolidating infrastructure, upgrading to new hardware, or moving to hybrid-cloud architecture, data centre relocation requires meticulous planning — not only to prevent downtime, but to protect data integrity and maintain compliance throughout.

A secure relocation plan goes far beyond physical logistics. It must align with GDPR, ISO 27001, ISO 9001, and ISO 14001, ensuring sensitive data is safeguarded and all assets are accounted for from start to finish.

Data centre relocation involves physically moving IT infrastructure — including servers, storage arrays, switches, and networking hardware — from one facility to another, either temporarily or permanently.

A compliant relocation process includes:

In the UK, every stage should comply with GDPR and ISO standards to prevent data breaches, loss, or service disruption.

A comprehensive audit is the foundation of any successful relocation.
Identify:

Use a barcode-based asset management system to track every item and prevent loss. Astralis’ internal systems ensure full visibility of each device from collection to redeployment.

A relocation project should be governed by a defined schedule and clear ownership across teams — facilities, IT, compliance, and security.

Key milestones should include:

This structure mitigates downtime and maintains service continuity across mission-critical operations.

Physical security is as important as digital security.

Your relocation provider should:

Astralis’ vehicles and relocation teams meet these standards, ensuring a secure chain of custody across the entire journey.

Not every asset makes the move. Legacy hardware must be sanitised or destroyed according to:

Astralis performs certified data erasure in line with these international standards and provides itemised Certificates of Erasure or Destruction for full audit traceability.

Once assets are relocated, conduct:

A verified handover document confirms that all relocated systems are operational, secure, and compliant.

Final documentation should include:

Maintaining this documentation ensures full transparency and supports internal audits or ISO recertification reviews.

A successful relocation depends on experience, security governance, and precision logistics.
Astralis operates from a secure 11,110 sq. ft. facility in Essex, offering in-house data erasure, destruction, and logistics with no subcontractors.

This approach ensures total accountability, reduces handling risk, and helps clients achieve compliance without disruption.

Call 01376 297 600 or contact us here to discuss secure data centre relocation and decommissioning services with our compliance team.

Astralis Technology provides accurate, standards-driven insights designed to help organisations plan, relocate, and decommission IT infrastructure securely and compliantly.

Data centre relocation poses several risks, including potential data loss, service downtime, and compliance breaches. If not managed properly, the physical transfer of equipment can lead to damage or misplacement of critical assets. Additionally, failure to adhere to regulations such as GDPR can result in legal penalties. To mitigate these risks, organisations should implement a comprehensive relocation plan that includes thorough asset auditing, secure transport methods, and post-relocation testing to ensure all systems are operational and compliant.

Ensuring compliance during a data centre relocation involves adhering to relevant regulations and standards, such as GDPR and ISO certifications. Organisations should conduct a detailed audit of all assets, maintain chain-of-custody documentation, and ensure that data destruction processes meet industry standards like NIST 800-88. Engaging a certified relocation provider can also help, as they will have the expertise and protocols in place to ensure compliance throughout the entire process, from planning to post-move verification.

Post-relocation documentation is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability. It should include updated asset registers reflecting new locations, chain-of-custody reports, and certificates of data erasure or destruction for any decommissioned equipment. Additionally, incident logs and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reports should be included if applicable. This documentation supports internal audits and ISO recertification reviews, ensuring that all aspects of the relocation are properly recorded and compliant with regulations.

Preparation for unexpected challenges during a data centre relocation involves thorough planning and risk assessment. Organisations should develop contingency plans that address potential issues such as equipment failure, transport delays, or compliance concerns. Regular communication among teams and stakeholders is essential to ensure everyone is informed and can respond quickly to any issues. Conducting pre-move testing and simulations can also help identify potential problems before the actual relocation, allowing for adjustments to be made in advance.

Technology plays a vital role in data centre relocation by facilitating asset tracking, secure data management, and communication among teams. Tools such as barcode-based asset management systems help organisations keep track of equipment throughout the relocation process, reducing the risk of loss. Additionally, advanced security technologies, like GPS tracking for transport vehicles and tamper-evident packaging, enhance the safety of sensitive data. Overall, leveraging technology can streamline the relocation process and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Choosing a certified relocation provider is crucial for ensuring a secure and compliant data centre move. Certified providers have the necessary expertise, protocols, and resources to manage the complexities of relocation effectively. They are familiar with industry standards and regulations, which helps mitigate risks associated with data loss and compliance breaches. Furthermore, certified providers often offer additional services, such as in-house data erasure and destruction, which can enhance security and accountability throughout the relocation process.