If your employer just announced an office move or told you that you’re getting transferred, or if you think that option will be on the table soon, then it’s essential you know what type of relocation package your company might offer. Moving out of state may do wonders for your career, but moving expenses add up. Most companies are willing to throw in a relocation package to incentivize employees to move. Just like your salary, these packages are typically negotiable. Here’s how to negotiate the best deal from your employer, without stepping over any lines:

1. Review Your Employment Documentation

When companies hire a new employee, they sometimes include information about relocation packages in the hiring paperwork. Know what your employer said they were prepared to offer you when you started.

2. If No One Mentions It, Then Ask About It

Many companies may not mention relocation packages due to budget constraints, but that doesn’t mean you can’t ask for one. It’s much easier to negotiate successfully if you already have a positive relationship with your boss. When you discuss it with him or her, emphasize your excitement at the new job opportunity while laying out the financial burdens.

3. Know Your Projected Expenses

Before you step foot in your boss’ office, you should know how much it will cost to move and the difference in living costs between your current and new hometowns. Having a list of expenses prepared aids in justifying your need for relocation money. For instance, if it is only a temporary relocation, will you need to pay a rent or mortgage at your current home and pay for rent at your new location? How much will the rent at your relocation place cost? Here are some moving expenses to keep in mind:

• Exploring the new town: If you’re moving to unfamiliar territory, it’s wise to make a trip to your new city before the move. Ideally, you’d bring the family along to familiarize everyone with their new hometown and scope out new housing. Some employers will pick up the expense of lodging and travel to ensure you’re committed to moving.
• Long distance movers: Most corporate relocations require moving to a different state. Hiring a licensed long distance moving company can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the distance and size of your move. Call around for free moving quotes before talking to your boss, so you know the approximate cost of relocating your household.
• Packing supplies: If you’re hiring full-service movers, they’ll typically do all the packing for you. If not, you’ll need to invest in purchasing quality packing supplies. If you have a large home, you could spend a few hundred on boxes, packing paper, tape, and other essential moving supplies.
• Shipping the family car: You may choose to drive your vehicles to your destination or arrange to have them shipped. Either way, you’ll incur expenses to transport your cars.
• Food, lodging, and transportation: Whether you fly or drive, you’ll probably have to spend money en route to your new home.
• Temporary housing: If you still own a home or you haven’t yet found one that works for your family, you may need to find a temporary home for a few weeks or months. Ask your company to consider picking up the tab.
• Storage: Moving might involve temporarily storing your stuff while you sort out the housing situation.

4. Renegotiate

If your employer offers you a relocation package, but it doesn’t entirely cover your relocation costs, consider renegotiating. Draft a letter, expressing appreciation for and excitement about the job opportunity. Include an itemized breakdown of anticipated costs to illustrate your need for additional funds effectively.

5. Find Out If Telecommuting is Possible

If you can do your job remotely and don’t want to move, then bring up the idea of telecommuting to your employer. If you have already laid out the cost of relocating and the company can’t pick up the tab, your employer might be more open to letting you work remotely.

Negotiating a relocation package with your employer is uncomfortable for many people but could save you thousands out of your pocket. If you prepare for the conversation, you’ll have more confidence negotiating.

Whether you’re moving as part of a job transfer or just for a change of pace, we hope you’ll reach out to Apple Moving to assist with your move. We are one of the oldest corporate and commercial moving companies in Texas, with decades of experience tackling corporate relocations.

Do you need help with packing, unpacking, storage, or your entire move?

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