Common Relocation Packages
Moving.com 

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

Autos: Transfer of vehicles to your new location. This can have certain restrictions to the amount of vehicles, etc. 

Childcare assistance: A list of day care providers and possible reimbursement for special situations. 

Cultural training: For those moving internationally, a class on what to expect in the new culture will be offered.

Elder care assistance: A list of nursing homes or care centers will be provided. 

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.

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.

Home Buying Services: Help with the payment of closing costs, mortgage points buy down or other fees on the purchase of a home.

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.

Lodging: During your home finding trip and/or move, costs for hotel stays will be paid. 

Misc. expenses: Out of pocket expenses like carpet cleaning, drapery installation, utility hook-ups, vehicle registration and other incidentals could be reimbursed.

Property Management: Homeowners on international or short term assignments will have a property management company take care of rental and upkeep.

Spousal job support: Many companies offer employment assistance for an accompanying spouse or partner.

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.

Temporary housing: In case your new home isn't ready right away, furnished housing will be provided. 

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.

*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