What Is Included in a Job Relocation Package (2024)

Are youmoving for a job? If so, it's worth checking to see if your new employer offers a job relocation package. It's more likely than you might think. In asurvey by Allied movers, over a quarter of respondents said they'd received some help with moving expenses.

But not all moving packages are alike. In some cases, the company will pay for the full cost of moving. In others, you may be given a flat dollar amount to cover your expenses.

If you're coming on board as a new employee and a relocation package isn't offered, you may be able to negotiate reimbursem*nt of expenses aspart of a counteroffer.

Note

There is no obligation on the part of an employer to cover moving expenses for either new or current employees.

What's Included in a Job Relocation Package?

Typically, if offered,most relocation packages include some or all of the following:

The Cost of a House-Finding Trip.The company may cover the costs of traveling to the new location to find a suitable home. These costs typically include transportation and lodging expenses.

Home Sales / Home Buying.The costs of selling your home and purchasing a new home are commonly included in relocation packages. This would include closing costs, real estate commissions, and other expenses normally incurred when buying or selling a house.

Job Search Help.Some employee relocation packages include job search assistance for your spouse or partner.

Transportation.Companies may reimburse travel expenses to get to your new home.

Temporary Housing.The cost of temporary furnishedrental housingor a hotel for a certain period of time is often provided. Rent and utility fees are typically included for rental housing.

Moving.The cost of a moving truck and other related expenses may be included.

Full Pack / Unpack.When the company fully covers the expenses and logistics of the move, movers will be sent to pack up your household goods and transport them to your new home, where they will unload, and in some cases unpack, the boxes where you wish.

Storage Unit Rental.Your new employer may pay for the cost of renting a storage unit while you get settled.

Lease Break Coverage.Companies may sometimes pay fees associated with breaking your lease in your prior location.

Check on What the Company is Offering

Before you make arrangements to move, double-check specifics of your relocation package with your employer so you know exactly what will be covered or reimbursed. You don't want to get stuck with expenses for items that you thought would be covered but aren't.

Some employers frequently deal with relocating new employees and may connect you with their sub-contracted companies.

Note

Others may give you a lump sum to pay for relocation, or ask you to keep all receipts for reimbursem*nt. Ask for specifics beforehand.

Negotiating Job Relocation as a Benefit

Because relocation expenses are a one-time cost for a company, negotiating a relocation package is sometimes easier thannegotiating a higher salary.

For companies, covering relocation services can be a smart, cost-effective recruitment tactic — employers may try to attract candidates by mentioning in job listings that relocation services are available. Paying moving expenses may also help employers retain internal candidates, which is often cheaper than paying the costs of hiring and training a new employee.

Tips for Negotiating a Relocation Package

Ask Questions.Begin the process by asking if the company provides relocation services and what the company typically provides. Even if the company does not provide full moving expenses, they may be willing to reimburse some costs.

Know Your Numbers.If the company typically offers relocation packages, they may have a sense of the costs. Otherwise, it's up to you to provide the employer with a sense of how the move will affect you in terms of time and money spent. As well, review the various relocation services that employers provide above. This will help you know what you want, and make a specific, detailed request.

Get the Details in Writing.As with anyjob-related benefit, it's important to have all the details in writing. That way, both you and your employer will be clear on expectations and coverage.

Key Takeaways

Some Employers Offer Job Relocation Packages: Others may be open to negotiating financial assistance with your move.

There Is No Obligation for Employers to Cover This Expense: No laws require moving assistance. Employers may offer it as a perk at their discretion.

When Offered, Job Relocation Packages Vary: Some will offer a lump sum, while others will ask you to track your receipts for reimbursem*nt.

Always Get the Offer in Writing: The exact terms of the job relocation package should be spelled out.

What Is Included in a Job Relocation Package (2024)

FAQs

What Is Included in a Job Relocation Package? ›

A generous relocation package covers all moving expenses and will give employees ample time to find their new home. ARC Relocation can help with various factors associated with relocation. This includes finding movers to assist with your employee's relocation, packing and unpacking services, and vehicle shipping.

What is reasonable to ask for for relocation package? ›

Typical relocation packages usually include temporary lodging expenses, the cost of moving, job assistance for your spouse, traveling costs, and assistance in selling your home.

Do relocation packages cover rent? ›

Some of the other expenses you can expect to cover for relocation include: Temporary Living Expenses: this is usually covered if an employee has to live in a hotel or short-term rental before moving to their permanent residence.

How to calculate a relocation package? ›

To create a relocation moving budget, start with the facts, such as the distance of your move, whether you plan to hire movers, the size of your move (in the number of bedrooms), and your move date. Then, you can factor in the estimated costs of each moving expense.

Do relocation companies pay closing costs? ›

The RELO package will usually pay your closing costs, including real estate commission. This can be a huge savings, particularly now, with real estate prices down. In the event you must sell at a price less than what you owe, your employer may cover the loss.

What is a standard relocation package? ›

A lump sum relocation package is a standard relocation package since many employees choose this package. A lump sum package is when a set amount of money is directly given to your relocating employee so they can pay for the expenses that come with moving. The government considers this as income, making it taxable.

How much money should I ask for relocation? ›

Relocation packages can range in worth from $2,000 to $100,000. What services and the amount of money you decide to cover is entirely up to you and your company. However, keep in mind that the more you are willing to give, the harder it may be for a candidate to refuse your offer when you negotiate moving expenses!

What is the average lump sum for a relocation package? ›

The full costs and figures can vary depending on the individual and their package however, as an example, payments are typically between $2,000 and $100,000. How do you negotiate a relocation package?

Does relocation expenses include buying furniture? ›

Furniture Allowance: Not every company will offer relocation packages that provide an allowance to buy new furniture. If you aren't shipping large pieces of furniture or if you want to start from scratch, you'll have to buy new furniture in your new city.

Do I have to pay back relocation expenses if I quit? ›

In California, it is important to note that state law generally prohibits employers from seeking reimbursem*nt of certain expenses, including relocation expenses, from terminated employees.

Is 5000 a good relocation package? ›

The actual cost of your move depends on your personal situation. $5,000 – $15,000 is an entry level management position or similar. This is a DIY move, you will likely not be able to afford professional movers or temporary housing. These moves often have out of pocket costs, and are stressful.

Does a relocation package count as income? ›

1: Relocation Benefits Are Considered Taxable Income

It doesn't matter if the funds are paid upfront in a lump sum, as after-the-fact reimbursem*nts, or even if the employer pays vendors directly.

What is a reasonable amount for moving expenses? ›

Gas, insurance and dollies can increase costs, as well. In total, expect to pay somewhere between $150 to $400 for a local move if you plan to do it yourself. Hiring a professional mover can make moving less stressful, but with prices for an average three-bedroom home costing around $2,200, it does come at a cost.

Does a relocation package include rent? ›

If moving for work, an employer should be able to foot the bill for temporary housing. Of course, they may only be willing to cover hotel costs or home rentals for a short amount of time. Be sure to ask how long they are willing to cover these costs before moving to a new city.

Do companies really make you pay back relocation? ›

Payback clauses generally cover the first year of relocation, sometimes the first 18 or 24 months, “but I've not seen anything longer than that,” he says. At Exelon Corp., a national energy services company based in Chicago, an “expense repayment agreement” is executed when the employee agrees to relocate.

What does it mean if a job pays for relocation? ›

Paid relocation—aka corporate relocation—occurs when employers finance some or all of an employee's move for business purposes. That employee could be a new hire, transferee or intern.

What is a reasonable amount of time to ask for relocation? ›

At least 2-4 weeks is reasonable to relocate for a job that's not too far away from a current home, like in a neighboring state or a couple of states away.

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