Relocating for a job often affects your personal life and can require moving your family to a new neighborhood, state or even country. Learning what to do when relocating for your career can simplify the process of moving, which can make it easier for you and your loved ones to adjust.
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In this article, we discuss why you might want to relocate and list eight steps to take when relocating for a job.
Why would you relocate for a job?
Interviewers often ask about your opinion on relocating when applying for a new position. Other times, an entire business moves its headquarters to a new city. It’s your decision whether to move with the company or find something new in your area.
Relocating for a job sometimes comes with additional benefits. For example, if the company you work for chooses to move, it may be because they see more potential for growth. Additional company revenue can lead to more money for salary increases or other company benefits. Your company also may pay for you to relocate.
What to consider before relocating for a job
The following list includes important considerations when relocating for a job:
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Potential relocation expenses
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Cost of living in the new area
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Advancement opportunities upon relocation
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Potential impact on your family
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The ability of a partner to find a new job or work remotely in their current role
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Options for local school systems for children
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A backup plan if relocation doesn’t work
The further in advance you make these considerations and plan for them, the easier your moving process can become.
8 steps to take when relocating for a job
If you decide to move forward with relocating, these next steps can help make the transition run more smoothly.
1. Understand your financial options
Some companies offer relocation services. Check with management and study the options available to you. For example, they might pay for short house-hunting trips before the move. They may also assist you in buying or selling your home, and in some circumstances, even help your spouse find a new position. Not all companies offer assistance, but you may be able to negotiate options.
Research and calculate some costs associated with your move. Present these rough estimates to management with evidence of where your money’s going. Doing so gives them a chance to reimburse some or all of your costs.
2. Find out the cost of living
Research the cost of living in and around your new location to determine if it’s more affordable or more expensive than your current neighborhood. If the area is more expensive, companies often make adjustments to their employees’ salaries, but in some situations, they might not.
Once you have a clear idea of the change in costs, make your plan and budget accordingly. For example, if you’re interested in buying a home but unable to afford one right away, you might instead put some of your belongings in storage and opt for an affordable apartment. Ask your coworkers about their plans, too. They may know of more affordable location options.
3. Research the new location
Visit the new location before you move to familiarize yourself and your family with the area. This is a great opportunity to explore surrounding neighborhoods and find a location that best meets your needs.
If you’re unable to visit, research online as much as you can. Visit tourism websites, city government websites or community forums to learn more about attractions and even connect with locals. Take a look at the new location’s newspapers or blogs and find out what occurs in the city daily.
4. Set a budget
Whether or not your company helps with the move, setting a budget can help ensure a safe and happy moving process for you and your family. Consider the costs of repairing certain areas of your current home to make it more marketable. It’s also a good idea to compare transport rates from different moving companies before making a decision.
Having these considerations in mind can make for a better, well-rounded budget. Preparing your budget in advance can instill confidence in the move, as you know that you’re making the best decisions for yourself and your family.
5. Stay organized
Staying organized is vital to managing the complex logistics involved in moving. Some of these tasks include selling your current home, finding a new home, shipping or driving all of your valuables long-distance and paying for the move.
Keep a list of all your goals related to relocating for work. Add new ideas to the list and mark off items once they’re complete to stay organized.
6. Locate an affordable home
There’s a lot involved in finding a new, affordable home for you and your family, but it’s usually best to find a place to live before moving. Finding a home that meets your financial needs and includes the location and features you’re looking for can make the move much easier. You might even plan how to lay furniture out within your new home before the move.
It’s also helpful to consider what type of living space is right for you. If you’re interested in buying a house but unable to secure a home before the move, try looking for other options. For example, you could rent an apartment that provides a comfortable commute to work, offers local amenities and provides access to schools for your children, if applicable.
7. Decide on a moving date
Move before the job start date at your new location. Depending on the distance, your company may provide you with a window of time between leaving your current position and starting again at the new location.
This window is your opportunity to secure a new house or apartment. Consider the current season and how it might impact your move schedule. For example, if it’s winter and you’re moving north, you may need to prepare for cold weather, which could affect your moving process.
8. Get a potential tax deduction
You may be eligible for tax deductions if you’re an active-duty member of the U.S. military and your move was related to a military order or permanent change of station — and you weren’t already reimbursed. Eligible moving expenses may include household goods, storage, and travel to your new location, per the IRS.
I hope you find this article helpful.
