Relocate a Operation to a free trade zone in Uruguay

Setting up a new Operation and relocating an existing one are two different projects. In a relocation, there are customers being served every day, active contracts, systems in production, and people who have to decide whether to move. The risk lies not in the new location but in the transition. This guide outlines what to evaluate when choosing a location and how to plan the move in phases.

What to Evaluate at the New Headquarters

Regime must align with the current Operation . Before relocating, it’s a good idea to determine what portion of revenue goes abroad and what portion goes to Uruguay. That determines whether all of Operation falls under the free trade zone or if part of it requires a different classification.

Infrastructure ready to operate from day one. A business in operation ( Operation ) cannot wait for construction to be completed. It’s a good idea to confirm which offices or warehouses are available immediately and which can be custom-built for the next phase.

On-site verification of connectivity and backup. System migration depends on links and power that work from day one.

Support for people who relocate. Companies in the free trade zone can hire Uruguayan and foreign personnel in accordance with current legislation. For executives and specialists who relocate, housing, schools, and immigration procedures are key considerations.

Comprehensive operator services. A privately managed facility can handle security, maintenance, common area services, and procurement support, thereby reducing the number of vendors that need to be coordinated during the move.

The four-stage transfer

Phase 1: Preparation. The scope is defined (which functions will be moved and which will remain), the business plan for the user contract is developed, and the space is selected. At the same time, the search begins for candidates to be hired in Uruguay.

Phase 2: Parallel “ Operation .” The new team begins working while the original team continues to operate. This is the phase dedicated to training and knowledge transfer, and it provides the greatest protection for customers.

Stage 3: Phased transition by function. Functions are transferred to the new location one at a time, starting with those posing the lowest risk. Each phase has a designated person in charge, a date, and a plan to revert to the previous arrangement if something goes wrong.

Stage 4: Stabilization. The original facilities are closed, service indicators are adjusted, and growth at the new location is scaled.

What to Communicate and to Whom

• Customers: What will change for them, when will the changes take effect, and who will assist them during the transition.
• Home Team: Who is eligible to transfer, and under what conditions?
• Suppliers and banks: changes of address, billing, and contact information.
• Headquarters: Transition indicators and outstanding risks at each stage.

How Zonamerica Supports a Relocation

Zonamerica offers, at campus , ready-to-operate offices, custom-built buildings, warehouses, and lots, under Regime as a free trade zone or under the Investment Promotion Act. This allows companies to begin Operation operations immediately in available offices and later move to a permanent location without changing sites. The Zonamerica team assists with project evaluation, Regime selection, and support in hiring and training talent.