Case: Large-Scale Data Center White Space Decomissioning & Rack Relocation

Written By Jessica Bonnette

Client Profile:

  • Industry: Information Technology Services and Solutions

  • Employees: 139,000

  • Annual Revenue: $12.87 Billion

  • Locations: 70

A leading enterprise technology and innovation partner engaged ThinkTLS to support a complex data center initiative involving full white space decommissioning at a major facility. The project included asset relocation, secure logistics, and end-of-life asset processing, all under a strict two-week timeline.

The Challenge

A leading enterprise technology and innovation partner needed to fully decommission white space within one of their large data center facilities—while simultaneously relocating reusable infrastructure to multiple destinations. The environment included approximately 1,000 racks, both populated and empty, and the entire initiative had to be executed under a strict two-week timeline.

The project required precision coordination across multiple sites, secure handling of critical infrastructure, damage-free logistics, and a strategy to maximize asset reuse and value recovery—all without disrupting ongoing operations.

Solution

ThinkTLS delivered a comprehensive solution combining onsite execution, secure logistics, and asset lifecycle optimization—ensuring speed, compliance, and sustainability at scale in just 7 days.

Step 1: Accelerated Origin-Site Decommissioning

ThinkTLS deployed a 14-person team of experienced data center decommissioning professionals to the origin facility. The team executed a disciplined, methodical approach that included:

  • Systematic identification and segregation of racks designated for relocation versus disposition

  • Best-practice packing and protection of empty racks to prevent damage during transport

  • Coordination of multiple outbound truckloads with secure logistics partners

  • Controlled removal of all remaining racks and hardware with full chain-of-custody maintained

Despite the size and complexity of the environment, all origin-site activities were completed in just 7 days, well ahead of schedule.

Step 2: Multi-Site Rack Relocation Execution

To support the relocation of approximately 250 empty racks across four destination data centers, ThinkTLS deployed two technicians to each site. These teams were responsible for:

  • Receiving inbound shipments and coordinating dock access

  • Safely unloading, staging, and transporting racks into designated white space

  • Collaborating with on-site personnel to ensure proper placement with minimal disruption

This parallel deployment model allowed ThinkTLS to maintain consistency, speed, and quality across all locations while meeting tight delivery windows.

Step 3: Asset Processing, Reuse & Value Recovery

All remaining racks and hardware not designated for relocation were transported to the ThinkTLS processing facility, where they underwent:

  • Full audit and serialized inventory

  • Inspection and testing to determine reuse and resale potential

  • Certified recycling for equipment not suitable for remarketing

  • Detailed reporting outlining disposition paths and value recovery outcomes

This approach ensured the client achieved maximum return on value while maintaining strict environmental and data security compliance.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

01. Rapid Large-Scale Data Center Decommissioning

Managed the secure decommissioning and relocation of a complex data center environment under an aggressive timeline.

02. Reuse-First Rack Relocation Strategy

Prioritized rack relocation and reuse across multiple facilities to reduce waste and preserve asset value.

Results & Impact

  • Completed the entire project in 7 days, significantly ahead of the two-week deadline

  • Successfully relocated 250 racks across four destination data centers

  • Securely and compliantly decommissioned approximately 1,000 racks

  • Achieved zero reported damage to relocated infrastructure

  • Maintained seamless coordination across multiple sites and logistics partners

The client and destination site teams praised ThinkTLS for clear communication, professionalism under pressure, and execution quality—highlighting the team’s ability to represent the client’s brand with confidence throughout the engagement.

Need a trusted partner to decommission, relocate, and recover value from your data center infrastructure—without sacrificing speed, security, or sustainability?

Connect with our team to learn how ThinkFORCE and ThinkRENEW can deliver secure, sustainable results at scale. ThinkTLS continues to be a trusted partner for enterprise organizations seeking secure, scalable, and sustainable data center decommissioning, logistics, and IT asset lifecycle management services.

Jessica Bonnette
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