Common Relocation Package Options

You finally got that great job offer and the company is paying to move you cross-country, or at least more than 50 miles away. Besides leaving the people and lifestyle you’ve grown accustomed to behind, what can you expect to be part of your relocation package?

Below is a list of things that companies *might include to make this inconvenience easier to bear. Of course the basics start with a moving truck, but you might be surprised with some of the other things!

Relocation Packages might also include:

Family relocation assistance

  • Childcare assistance:
    A list of day care providers and possible reimbursement for special situations.
  • Elder care assistance:
    A list of nursing homes or care centers will be provided.
  • Spousal job support:
    Many companies offer employment assistance for an accompanying spouse or partner.

Transportation services

  • Transportation:
    Getting you to your new destination by plane, train or automobile will be reimbursed.
  • Travel:
    If you’re on a short unaccompanied assignment or your families move is scheduled a few months out, airfare back home will be paid for every so often.

Moving Assistance

  • Autos:
    Transfer of vehicles to your new location. This can have certain restrictions to the amount of vehicles, etc.
  • Full Pack:
    A van line will be sent to pack all your household goods and transport them to your new home. Any special moving needs should be discussed prior.
  • Full Unpack:
    When the van line arrives at your new home for delivery they will unload all boxes and furniture where you wish.

Housing assistance

  • Home Sale Services:
    Help with the payment of closing costs and commissions on the sale of your home.
  • Lease Break Coverage:
    If you’re a renter, the company will pay penalty charges for breaking a contract.
  • Storage:
    If you will be overseas on a short assignment or living in temporary housing for a few weeks, the company will pay to have your items put in a storage facility.
  • Home finding trip:
    A visit to your future city (including airfare, hotel, rental car, and meals) so that you can find a home, schools, etc. that are suitable for your family.
  • Lodging:
    During your home finding trip and/or move, costs for hotel stays will be paid.
  • Temporary housing:
    In case your new home isn’t ready right away, furnished housing will be provided.
  • Home Buying Services:
    Help with the payment of closing costs, mortgage points buy down or other fees on the purchase of a home.
  • Property Management:
    Homeowners on international or short term assignments will have a property management company take care of rental and upkeep.

Other relocation services

  • Cultural training:
    For those moving internationally, a class on what to expect in the new culture will be offered.
  • Misc. expenses:
    Out of pocket expenses like carpet cleaning, drapery installation, utility hook-ups, vehicle registration and other incidentals could be reimbursed.

* These are descriptions of what companies may offer. Contact your HR department for details on what your particular relocation package will include.

Other questions to ask HR when relocating:

  • How long will you have to make your move?
  • Will you get a lump sum payment or reimbursed for certain things?
  • What is the office environment like?
  • What is there to do in the city/state?
  • What is the cost of living differential? Use our Salary Calculator
  • How are schools? Get a School Report
  • Will you be set up with a realtor? Visit Realtor.com
  • What is the population of the city and other statistics? Get a detailed City Report