High-Tech Logistics: The Basic Guide to Data Center Server Rack Moves

Data Center Moves: A Look at Server Rack Relocation

Data centers are everywhere, especially if you are in Loudoun County, Virginia, aka 'Data Center Alley', where 70% of the world's internet traffic travels. To put it in perspective, according to the Washington Post, "more than half a million people in Northern Virginia live in a neighborhood that’s less than a mile from a data center. That’s more than 1 in 5 residents", and it's growing every day. 

However, it's what's inside data centers is what's critical.

Contained within those walls are rows of server racks that contain IT equipment such as servers, routers, and switches. These store and process the vast amounts of data that drive our apps, websites, networks, and everything in between. But they don't often stay in one place, and like any machine, these racks have a finite lifespan and need to be securely moved out to make room for the new.

Whether moving new and empty, decommissioned and empty, or live and populated server racks, specialized relocation logistics services should be used. This is to ensure the safe and secure handling and transportation to their next destination using heavy-duty, white-glove labor. 

This article walks you through the basic necessities of what is needed to service the high-tech logistics industry successfully.

Explore This Article: 

1. Why do data center racks need to be relocated?

2. Basics For What Makes Data Center Moves Successful

3. Secure Movements Start With The People

4. Transportation, Tools, and Rack Equipment
   

Why Do Data Center Racks Need to be Relocated?

Moving data center equipment on a weekly or even daily basis might seem like a lot but to the data center world, it's completely normal. Here's why:

• Equipment Upgrading, Replacement - Most common, as technology evolves, older hardware may become obsolete or less efficient. Relocating racks allows for the installation of newer, more powerful equipment. The equipment that became outdated or no longer functional, must be decommissioned, data destroyed, and racks sent to a circular center for refurbishing or recycling. 
• Security breaches - In the event of a serious security breach, compromised equipment may need to be decommissioned to protect sensitive data.
• Data Center Expansion or Consolidation - An increase in demand or consolidating multiple facilities, server racks may need racks to be moved to optimize the space.
• Maintenance or Repairs - Relocating racks can provide easier access for maintenance or repair work, minimizing downtime.
• Disaster Recovery or Business Continuity - In the event of a disaster or system failure, relocating racks to a backup data center can help ensure business continuity.
• Energy Efficiency - Relocating can sometimes improve energy efficiency by optimizing cooling and power distribution.

Basics For What Makes Data Center Moves Successful 

First and foremost, the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlines the expectations the data center has for communication, equipment, and handling. The SOP makes sure everyone is aligned, organized, and follows procedure, not only for the safety of the racks but those who are handling them. It's important to keep it updated and quickly communicate any changes. We suggest appointing a project manager to take responsibility for the SOP directives.

• The right equipment. Server racks can be heavy (see difference between static and dynamic weight). New racks can be up to 250 lbs but dynamic racks that are heavily populated can be more than 2,000 lbs. Major vibrations and humidity can heavily compromise the equipment and data. Having the right equipment, such as ramps, electric pallet jacks, power tools, PPE, and properly equipped vehicles, ensures the long-term integrity of the data. 
• Safety is essential in server rack relocation, along with strictly following data center security rules to protect sensitive equipment and data. The team also needs to be equipped with specialized tools and maintain accurate documentation to handle the racks safely throughout the process.
• Regular communication at key points, like before the move, during equipment transfers, and after the move is done, is important to make sure the relocation goes smoothly and that the server rack is always accounted for. This helps keep everything safe and secure. Communication is also very reliant on collaboration between data centers and the relocation team. 

Secure Movements Start With The People

The Importance of Specialized Teams

Data centers are highly secure environments. For the safety of sensitive equipment during server rack moves, specialized teams of trained logistics professionals with expertise in handling IT hardware in high-pressure environments are important.

They have a focused experience, resources, and equipment to maneuver the racks and other IT equipment with ease and precision. 

Quailifications and Credentials

To gain access to the data center, teams consist of security-cleared personnel. They need to have a valid badge and ID, which grants them entry to restricted areas and enables them to handle sensitive equipment.

To move the racks safely, personnel may also need to be certified forklift operators, to operate electric pallet jacks to reduce injury and increase effectiveness.

Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is one of the most important items for these moves. At a minimum, the following are needed to protect the safety of everyone involved in server rack moves:

• Sturdy safety boots to prevent injuries from falling objects or sharp edges
• Safety glasses or goggles to safeguard your eyes from debris
• Safety gloves to protect your hands from cuts
• Safety vests to increase visibility and reduce the risk of accidents
• Bump caps to shield your head from potential impacts. 

By consistently wearing these items, the risk of workplace injuries and equipment damage is significantly reduced or eliminated.

Transportation, Tools, and Rack Equipment

The right tools can help make sure the job is done safely, correctly, and quickly. Server racks are extremely sensitive and heavy and having a team of six men handle the movement of one rack on the loading dock is not uncommon. Having the wrong piece of equipment can be the difference between a safe working space and a workplace injury. 

For example, using a ramp on the loading dock that doesn't support the weight, is half an inch too tall from the ledge, or is not locked into place could result in the rack tipping over. In fact, without proper equipment, movement of the racks shouldn't happen! 

Specialized equipment for the safe transport of server racks could include:

• Straps for securing racks during transit
• Load bars to prevent shifting
• Power tools for secure fastening
• Rubber mallet and safety box cutter for positioning and opening boxes safely
• Electric and manual pallet jacks with backup batteries and extension cords
• Wheel chocks and flashlights for added safety

Partnering for Success

In a world increasingly driven by data, safe, efficient server rack relocation is paramount. From the data centers of Loudoun County to facilities worldwide, the demand for specialized logistics solutions teams is only going to intensify.

It’s a combination of precision, security, and meticulous planning, where the right team, equipment, and protocols are non-negotiable. Whether it's upgrading for the latest tech, reacting to a security breach, or optimizing for energy efficiency, the ability to move vital and, oftentimes, irreplaceable equipment with confidence ensures the backbone of our digital infrastructure remains strong and reliable.

In the high-stakes world of data center logistics, there's simply no room for error. Anything less than perfection just won't cut it. Partnering with a logistics solutions provider, like Excel Courier, specializing in high-tech solutions gives you access to:

• Expert Teams: Extensively trained and rigorously vetted personnel, ensuring the secure handling of your sensitive IT equipment.
• Meticulous Planning: We collaborate closely with you to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses every detail, from secure packing to precise delivery timelines.
• Compliance: Our commitment to safety regulations and data center security policies provides peace of mind throughout the relocation process.

We understand the intricacies of server rack moves.  Our team will provide you with the necessary tools and resources to ensure a smooth transition, including:

• Specialized Equipment: From properly rigged trailers to secure racking systems, we have the specialized equipment to safeguard your server racks during transport.
• Detailed Documentation: We maintain meticulous records throughout the process, providing you with complete transparency and auditability.
• Clear Communication: Our dedicated team keeps you informed every step of the way, ensuring clear and consistent communication throughout your project.

Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and explore how we can craft a customized solution for your server rack relocation project.