If you're relocating for a new job and your new employer offers relocation benefits, don't just assume everything is covered because benefits can vary from business to business. Besides reading any relocation benefit policies, make sure to ask these five important questions, so you know what is and is not covered.
Are Packing Services Included?
You have accumulated a lot of things over your life, which is one of the reasons why moving can be so annoying. You have to pack, haul and unpack all your stuff. Ask your new employer if packing services are included in the relocation benefits, and if so, what assistance is actually covered. For example, some companies may offer to pay a moving company to fully pack, transport and fully unpack all your items. Other companies may only pay for a truck rental, but you have to move your items yourself. The point is that you should know just how your things will get to the new place.
Is Temporary Housing Available?
Another hassle of moving to a new city or state is finding a place to live. In a perfect world, you could sell your house, move, immediately purchase and move in to a new home and then start your job. Unfortunately, the world is far from perfect, and it's difficult to time everything exactly as planned, especially if you are not familiar with the area. Your employer may offer free temporary housing for a few months while you familiarize yourself with the area and find the perfect home in the right neighborhood. Also ask about assistance selling your old home.
Can You Help My Spouse Find Work?
You found a new job and are ready to relocate, but what about your spouse? If you are a dual-income family, relocating may mean losing your spouse's income for a while. Talk with your new employer to see how they can help. They may be able to offer your spouse a job within the company or can help find one somewhere else. Even if they can't help your spouse find a job, the employer may be willing to offer additional money, such as a signing bonus, to help offer financial assistance while your spouse looks for a new job.
Do You Provide a Cash Stipend?
Even if you plan and budget, a big move has surprise costs. Perhaps the rent on your new apartment isn't as low as you planned, or maybe your car needs some repairs after or before the long drive. These costs don't always have to come out of your own pocket. Your employer may offer a cash stipend for miscellaneous expenses associated with the relocation. If your employer does offer a cash stipend, make sure to find out if there are guidelines on how you can spend the cash. Can you only spend it on qualifying moving costs or is it your money to spend as you see fit?
Is There Room for Negotiation?
Even if your employer has a written policy regarding what is and what is not covered, you should still ask if negotiations are possible. When negotiating, start early and know what you want, but don't go overboard. Educate yourself on what is covered, and try to stick within those parameters. If relocation benefits only cover a moving truck rental, negotiating for free temporary housing and a cash stipend isn't reasonable, but arguing for a professional mover may be. Above all, when negotiating, explain how it will help the company. For example, more assistance means you can immediately start work without distractions.
Relocating to a new city or state can be scary, but relocation benefits make it a little easier. Always talk with your employer to find out exactly what is and what isn't covered, but don't be afraid to negotiate. If you are moving for work, get prepared today by making a list of what services you really need in a relocation package. For more information or assistance, contact companies like Bekins Van Lines Inc.
Share19 November 2015
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