Physical Data Center Relocation

Relocation Methodology

The TDS data center relocation methodology follows a specific process to ensure smooth and successful data center relocation events.

• Thorough inspection and documentation of the source data center at least 2 weeks prior to scheduled move date
• All server related data entered into a purpose-built system (TDS's unique Transition Manager) which allows for simple generation of un-rack and re-rack plans and rack elevation diagrams to serve as working plans for the move engineers
• Bar Code Tagging of servers scheduled to move at least 2 weeks prior to the scheduled move date
• Data Center walkthrough (both source and target sites) 2 weeks prior to the move event with the lead move engineer and shipper to understand any special requirements or work to perform pre-move day
• Un-rack plan to maximize effectiveness and minimize overcrowding within the data center on move day
• System generated labels with server name placed on the rails when removed
• Rails are transported in advance if/where appropriate, to save time during the physical move process. These rails would be staged prior to the servers arriving via trucks
• System generated labels with server name, moving cart number, new row/rack location and U-Position are placed on the servers when removed
• Re-rack plan to maximize effectiveness and minimize overcrowding in the data center
• Rack elevation diagrams taped to each target rack for additional visual confirmation that servers are being racked in the proper locations
• Servers are unloaded and stacked on dollies designated for specific racks based upon detailed re-rack plan
• Servers stacked in pre-determined locations based upon detailed re-rack plan (from bottom up)
• Connect all power and network cables based upon detailed re-rack plan
• Audit of rail installation, server locations and cabling is performed by a project manager or lead move engineer throughout the move and a final audit is performed upon completion

Exclusive Use Trucking

Exclusive use trucking is a term logistics companies use to describe a shipping method where the shipper requests exclusive use of the truck, meaning their freight is the only freight on the truck from origin to destination. TDS uses only exclusive use trucking when transporting our customer’s equipment from one data center to another. It’s an important note, because unless specified, any of a myriad of alternatives are possible. A variety of other factors must also be considered when choosing the right shipping method. A good general rule of thumb when shipping high value equipment is that trucking is far cheaper and almost always quicker when the destination is less than 1200 miles away. The US Department of Transportation has very specific regulations surrounding the number of hours a driver is allowed to operate a vehicle in a specific time period. For this reason, TDS often uses multiple drivers to accommodate straight through driving and ultimately a faster and less risky delivery for our customers.