Learn about the different relocation certifications
Like any decision with multiple options, choosing which relocation management company to work with can be tricky. As an HR professional or manager involved in the procurement or decision-making process for relocating employees, you want to make sure you are signing on with the relocation company that will make moving your employees as smooth as possible. One assessment that should not be overlooked when choosing talent mobility services is the relocation certifications that the firm’s employees have obtained.
While reviewing which corporate relocation company to work with, you will probably notice a series of acronyms by their employee’s names. Each of these acronyms represents professional relocation certification earned through Worldwide ERC®, the guiding body of the global workforce mobility industry.
But what do these certifications mean? And which certifications are important? Two of the more commonly seen certifications include the CRP and GMS. Here, we break down the details.
The Top Relocation Certifications
CRP: Certified Relocation Professional
One of the more common relocation certifications is the Certified Relocation Professional (CRP) designation from Worldwide ERC. This shows that the relocation coordinator has the competency and foundational knowledge of corporate mobility in the United States. CRPs typically understand the common principles and practices of employee relocations, including how to handle and overcome any obstacles that can get in the way. The knowledge gained by the relocation professional during the certification process greatly benefits the relocating employee, allowing them to get the most out of their experience with the relocation company.
How Do You Earn It?
First, you must either be a current member of Worldwide ERC for at least 12 months or be sponsored by a current CRP/SCRP holder who attests to your minimum of 1 full year of corporate relocation-related experience. To earn a CRP designation, obtainers must complete an intensive three-hour exam that tests their knowledge of relocation policies, home sale programs, U.S. tax and real estate compliance, and other trends regarding relocation issues.
Additionally, CRP-certified personnel must earn at least 30 recertification credit hours every three years. This continuing education aims to ensure that CRPs are current with industry trends, issues, and policies.
SCRP: Senior Certified Relocation Professional
The Senior Certified Relocation Professional (SCRP) certification is one step higher than a CRP. Suppose a relocation specialist holds an SCRP designation. In that case, it demonstrates their dedication to advancing their knowledge in the field of mobility and establishing themselves as a prominent figure in the industry through significant time and effort.
How Do You Earn It?
To earn their SCRP designation, the relocation professional must first pass the extensive exam process related to the CRP certification. Additionally, Worldwide ERC recognizes employees for their contributions to the industry, resulting in a Distinguished Service Award. Contributions include active participation in the industry, serving on various ERC committees, authoring articles in industry publications, or serving as a member of multiple industry-related committees.
GMS: Global Mobility Specialist
Another vital certification to look for is the Global Mobility Specialist (GMS) certification. Professionals who have obtained a GMS title prove they have an in-depth understanding of international relocation policies and procedures. A GMS should be able to handle questions and concerns regarding international assignments; family matters related to spouses/partners and children, visa and immigration compliance issues, the interaction between tax laws, and more.
How Do You Earn It?
To complete their GMS, candidates must complete three training modules and pass an exam covering the fundamentals of international workforce mobility and intercultural management skills. To keep current, GMS holders must complete 15 continuing education credits focusing on international management and global workforce mobility every three years.
GMS-T: Global Mobility Specialist-Talent Management
The GMS-T relocation certification for Talent Management professionals provides comprehensive training and guidance on employee mobility. This certification ensures that individuals are updated on global mobility best practices. To maintain the certification, individuals must complete 15 continuing education courses every three years.
How Do You Earn It?
You must register online and complete the entire program to get a GMS-T. There are six modules to complete, and testers must score 70% or higher on the quizzes given at the end of each module. And, of course, you must pass the final exam with a score of 70% or higher. This must be completed within six months of starting and should take an average of about 25 hours.
CMC: Certified Moving Consultant
Although not a standard certification for relocation counselors who work directly with transferees, the Certified Moving Consultant (CMC) designation is essential for transportation personnel involved in every relocation conducted by the company. The American Moving & Storage Association offers the CMC program for employees seeking a comprehensive knowledge of the household goods moving sector. Setting itself apart from the CRP and GMS certifications, the CMC program specifically delves into the intricacies of the household goods (HHG) industry.
How Do You Earn It?
To become CMC certified, you must be an AMSA member in good standing, purchase the program, and complete the eLearning courses. You must pay an annual renewal fee of $150 to renew your CMC certification.
Why Choose A Company With Relocation Certifications?
It is better to work with a relocation management company that can assure partners that their employees and team members are qualified and certified to serve them. Relocation can be stressful for everyone involved, from the HR manager hiring the employee to the employee who is relocating, and the family that is impacted by the move. Including the above-described certifications, Global Mobility Solutions’ employees hold and maintain 23 different designations specific to their unique disciplines. These designations represent every facet of the relocation process, including relocation management, household goods, real estate, information security, quality assurance, and more. We also make an effort to keep our coordinators’ relocation certifications current. Many relocation companies don’t urge or reimburse their employees to renew theirs. By working with a relocation management company like Global Mobility Solutions, you will have the peace of mind that you are working with the best in the industry.
Interested in learning how GMS’ expertise can help you with your corporate mobility objectives? Contact us for a complimentary one-on-one consultation with a GMS mobility professional today!
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John Fernandez | CRP, GMS, SSB
Executive Vice President John oversees global operations, marketing, business development as well as reporting and analytics. John’s 23 years of mobility experience include excellence in varied positions such as Relocation Counselor, International Assignment Manager, Manager of Latin American Operations, Director of International Operations, Global Account Executive, Vice President of Sales and Vice President of Global Services. The depth of John’s mobility experience also includes multiple assignments and domestic relocations of his own. He has lived and conducted business around the globe and speaks multiple languages.
