Despite the frequency of this type of move, many individuals approach job relocations without adequate preparation. Moving to take a job presents unique challenges not encountered during other move types, which can create difficulties and extra expenses.
In this blog, we discuss four tips when moving that will help you make a job-related transition with minimal complications.
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Create a Detailed Timeline for Your Transition
Job-related moves require more logistical organization than your average transition. Not only must you organize your usual moving and housing services, but you must also consider the steps you’ll need to take for your new job.
Once you know your start date, begin creating a detailed timeline of the transition. Consider your current lease terms, available travel arrangements, and housing needs. For example, you may need to break your lease to avoid paying two rents, fly out before your home sells, or place your belongings in storage while staying in temporary housing.
Include any potential visits to your new hometown in your timeline. Consider what you’ll want to figure out at each stage in the moving process. For example, a visit three months in advance may help you become familiar with the area, but you may not be ready to start house hunting or setting appointments yet.
Begin inquiring about packing, moving, housing, and storage services as soon as possible to avoid last-minute shortages or costs. At each step of the moving process, create checklists and get schedules from your service providers so that you can get a clear overall picture of how your transition will progress over time.
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Get an Early Moving Cost Estimate
As you begin to put together your timeline, ask for estimates on each service you’ll need during your move. Costs can add up during any move, especially if you need to complete certain tasks before your first day at your new job.
You will need to have parameters for your budget as far in advance as possible. These parameters can help you understand what you can expect to pay out of pocket, but your estimates are also an essential part of negotiating any employee relocation benefits, as we’ll discuss in section four.
Additionally, you may want to meet with a taxes or accounting professional to determine which of your moving expenses are tax deductible. This information can help you narrow down your options and plan your most cost-effective move. Meeting with a financial adviser in advance also ensures that your paperwork is in order come tax season.
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Keep Your Housing Options Flexible
Moving to take a new job is a big risk, albeit a carefully calculated one. In many cases, long-term arrangements made in a hurry can fall through and leave you with a less-than-desirable situation in your new hometown.
One of the most difficult logistical considerations to get right when you move for a job is your housing. Instead of trying to buy a new home remotely, you may want to consider living in a rental instead.
Be sure to look at listings for extended stay hotels, subleases, and vacation rentals in addition to traditional apartments to ensure you get the best lease conditions. These temporary housing options can allow you to begin creating a physical and social home base without rushing into a long-term housing agreement.
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Inquire About Employee Relocation Offers
Many companies that hire out-of-city or out-of-state know that they need to be a competitive option for their desired job candidates. These businesses may offer employee relocation benefits as an incentive to move closer to their headquarters.
Even if your new employer does not routinely offer these benefits, you may be able to negotiate a relocation package using the information from the estimates you’ve received. However, as you work with your employer to determine how your transition will be organized and paid for, pay attention to exactly what the relocation offer entails.
Some companies will pay for house-hunting trips, packing services, and miscellaneous expenses, while others will only cover shipping your belongings. You will be financially responsible for the services that aren’t specifically accounted for in your relocation agreement.
In addition to your discussions with your employer, consider working with a moving company with specific experience in employee relocations to get expert advice and bundled services.
As you prepare to accept a job offer in a new location, use this guide of tips when moving to make your move smoother and less stressful.
For moving recommendations and services from industry experts, including full employee relocation services, and other tips when moving, trust the team at Bekins Van Lines, Inc.
