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Case Study: 2026 Destination Services & Rental Market Trends Report

Corporate mobility team going over rental market and destination services report.

5 Insights Every Mobility Program Should Act On

Employee relocation is entering a new phase of complexity and opportunity.

Fresh insights from Global Mobility Solutions’ 2026 Destination Services & U.S. Rental Housing case study reveal an industry that isn’t slowing down. Instead, destination service providers (DSPs) are modernizing operations, expanding geographically, and leaning heavily into technology to keep pace with rising rental costs and faster-moving housing markets.

The survey, covering 142 high-volume DSPs managing more than 39,000 annual service authorizations, shows strong demand, steady growth, and clear signals about where corporate mobility programs must adapt next.

For HR and mobility leaders, the message is simple: the status quo isn’t enough. Here are five trends shaping 2026 and the actions every mobility program should take now.

Click here to access the case study

1. Service Demand Is Rising, But Markets Are Moving Faster

Most DSPs reported year-over-year growth in 2025 and expect volumes to increase again in 2026. Yet the rental environment has changed dramatically.

Tighter inventory and rising rents mean transferees often have fewer viable options and must make faster decisions. Homes lease in days, not weeks, compressing timelines and increasing pressure on relocating employees.

When markets accelerate, insufficient support leads to rushed housing choices, early lease breaks, and costly exceptions.

What to do:
Treat destination services as a risk-reduction strategy, not an optional perk. Expand support in competitive markets and ensure employees receive enough time and expert guidance to make informed decisions.

2. Three or More Service Days Produce Better Outcomes

One of the clearest findings in the data is the direct relationship between authorization length and relocation success.

Assignments of 1–2 days typically include just 1–3 hours of research and limited property viewings. By contrast, 3–4 day programs double research time and expose transferees to significantly more housing options. Five-plus days allow deeper neighborhood orientation, commute evaluation, and school research.

More time equals better decisions and fewer downstream costs.

What to do:
Reevaluate policies authorizing fewer than three service days. Extending to at least three days can reduce dissatisfaction, minimize rework, and improve long-term retention.

3. Geographic Demand Is Concentrated and Strategic

North America continues to dominate destination activity, accounting for more than half of all assignments. Within the U.S., five states consistently lead inbound demand:

  • California
  • Oregon
  • Texas
  • Florida
  • New York

These markets benefit from strong infrastructure, tax advantages, tech and AI expansion, and deep talent pools. Meanwhile, hybrid and remote work is redirecting assignments toward secondary cities that offer affordability and quality of life.

For corporate mobility teams, this creates a widening gap between high-cost coastal metros and more affordable Sun Belt alternatives.

What to do:
Segment policies by market tier. Align housing budgets and service levels with local realities rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

Click here to access the case study

4. Rental Pricing Gaps Are Reshaping Housing Allowances

Rental costs tell a story of two Americas.

High-cost coastal states like Washington and California continue posting increases, driven by limited supply and strong employment growth. Meanwhile, markets like Arizona and Texas have seen modest declines as new multifamily inventory enters the market.

Data from sources such as Zillow and Apartment List show another important shift: 3-bedroom units now cost 55–60% more than 1-bedroom units across most states.

For families relocating with children, this premium materially impacts affordability and policy budgets.

What to do:
Recalibrate housing allowances annually and by bedroom size. Static budgets quickly become outdated in volatile rental environments, leading to more exceptions and employee stress.

5. Technology Is Becoming the Competitive Differentiator

If one theme defines the DSP roadmap for 2026, it’s modernization.

Every surveyed provider cited automated workflows as a priority. Most are investing in AI-enabled research, integrated APIs, and data analytics. These tools reduce cycle times, improve property matching, and deliver greater visibility for clients.

Destination services are evolving from a manual, transactional function into a connected, insight-driven advisory model.

Corporate mobility programs’ technology that max out on spreadsheets and email coordination will struggle to keep up.

What to do:
Partner with providers that offer integrated technology, real-time reporting, and data transparency. Automation and analytics aren’t just efficiency upgrades—they directly improve the employee experience.

The Bottom Line for Destination Services Trends 2026

The industry is entering the year with cautious optimism. Volumes are rising. Rental markets are stabilizing nationally with modest growth. And providers are investing heavily in smarter, more scalable service models.

But complexity isn’t going away.

Higher costs, tighter timelines, and employee expectations require corporate mobility programs to be more strategic than ever. The organizations that win in 2026 will:

  • Authorize sufficient service days
  • Localize housing budgets
  • Focus on high-demand markets
  • Leverage technology
  • Treat destination services as a critical success factor


Destination support is no longer just logistics, but it’s talent enablement.

Programs that adapt now will reduce costs, improve outcomes, and deliver the confident, well-supported relocations today’s workforce expects. Be sure to stay connected with GMS for more destination services trends 2026.

Click here to access the case study
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Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips

Managing Employee Stress During Corporate Relocation

Couple sit on sofa pack their personal belongings
Couple sit on sofa pack their personal belongings, sealing cardboard boxes with adhesive tape preparing for relocation from rented house to new own home. Bank loan for young family, tenancy concept

How to help employees through the talent mobility process

Relocation – a word that conjures up images of excitement and new beginnings. Yet, amidst the sparkle of fresh opportunities lies a lesser-known truth: the significant stress it places on employees. With its whirlwind of change and upheaval, corporate relocation can take a toll on your workforce’s emotional and psychological well-being. As a manager, recognizing and addressing the impact of this process is crucial for maintaining productivity and preserving employee satisfaction. This blog post will delve into managing employee stress during a corporate relocation, equipping you with essential insights and strategies to guide your team through this challenging transition.

Understanding the Impact of Corporate Relocation on Employees

In the intricate mosaic of relocation, it’s vital to unravel the threads that weave through the minds and hearts of your employees. Relocation isn’t simply a physical shift from one place to another; it’s an emotional odyssey. The impact runs more profound than the boxes they pack or the miles they travel. It seeps into their sense of stability, uprooting familiar routines and unsettling personal lives. By peering into the kaleidoscope of emotions experienced during a corporate move, we can begin to empathize with our employees‘ fears, anxieties, and aspirations, forging a path toward better support and understanding.

Creating a Supportive Relocation Policy

Just as a compass guides weary travelers through uncharted territories, a well-crafted relocation policy is a guiding light for employees navigating the murky waters of corporate relocation. It’s not merely a set of rules and regulations; it’s a lifeline that offers support, assurance, and a sense of security. A comprehensive policy should be a cloth of empathy and practicality, addressing the unique needs and challenges of uprooting lives. By weaving financial assistance, relocation packages, and essential resources for housing and settling in the new location, we can create a safety net that eases the burden on our employees’ shoulders and paves the way for a smoother transition.

Effective Communication and Transparency

In the labyrinth of corporate relocation, communication becomes the compass that guides employees through the maze. Openness, honesty, and transparency are the keynotes of a successful transition. By fostering a culture of open dialogue, we provide a safe space for employees to voice their concerns, air their anxieties, and seek reassurance. Regular updates and clear communication channels ensure no one feels left in the dark, adrift amidst uncertainty. By embracing two-way communication, we create a bridge that connects managers and employees, allowing for the exchange of feedback, questions, and valuable insights. Together, we navigate the uncharted waters, united and well-informed.

Supporting Employee Well-being

Amidst the whirlwind of relocation, we must maintain our employees’ well-being. Balancing work and personal life becomes even more critical during this transitional period. Encouraging stress management techniques, such as exercise and mindfulness, helps employees find moments of tranquility amidst the chaos. Access to counseling or employee assistance programs can provide a safety net for those grappling with heightened emotions. By prioritizing their well-being, we fortify our team, ensuring they remain resilient and productive throughout the relocation. After all, a healthy and supported workforce is the foundation upon which success is built.

Providing Practical Assistance

An office move with minimal disruption? There are ways to stay on track. Are you facing logistical challenges? By offering practical assistance, we alleviate their burdens. Assisting with tackling the hands-on realm of turmoil lightens the physical load and sends a message of care and support. Guiding employees in finding suitable schools, healthcare providers, and local amenities ease their integration into the new community. Additionally, providing access to resources for spousal employment and support ensures that their loved ones feel secure and supported. Together, we lay the groundwork for a seamless transition, one practical step at a time.

Empathy and Understanding

Empathy and understanding become beacons of light in the tempest of corporate relocation, guiding us through the storm. Each employee’s journey is unique, and we must acknowledge and appreciate their circumstances. By showing genuine empathy, we create an environment where they feel heard and supported. Understanding their challenges and emotions helps us tailor our approach, adapting to their needs and alleviating stress whenever possible. Flexibility becomes a cornerstone, allowing us to accommodate personal circumstances and provide support. With empathy as our compass, we navigate the choppy waters of relocation, fostering a culture of compassion and unity.

Building a Sense of Community in the New Location

Building a sense of community in the new location becomes paramount as employees embark on their relocation journey. Facilitating opportunities for connection and camaraderie fosters a support system amidst unfamiliar surroundings. Organizing social events and team-building activities helps forge bonds and create a sense of belonging. Encouraging employees to explore and appreciate their new surroundings cultivates a positive mindset and a deeper connection with the new environment. Together, we weave a fabric of unity, transforming a foreign land into a place they can proudly call home. Through community, we find strength and resilience in the face of change.

Final Thoughts from GMs

Regular check-ins after corporate relocation allow us to gauge their well-being and assess the toll the transition may take on them. Identifying signs of burnout or excessive stress becomes crucial in providing timely support. Equipped with this knowledge, we can offer resources and assistance tailored to their needs, be it stress management techniques or access to mental health support. By actively addressing their stress levels, we ensure their mental and emotional well-being remains intact, fostering a resilient and thriving workforce.

For more information about how to handle every aspect of the corporate relocation process, contact Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) today. GMS is a full-service talent mobility provider. Our in-depth relocation programs help companies get their employees from point A to point B by reducing stress as much as possible.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Are you ready to talk to a Mobility Pro? Learn how GMS can optimize your mobility program, enhance your policies to meet today’s unique challenges, receive an in-depth industry benchmark, or simply ask us a question. Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day for a no-pressure, courtesy consultation.

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Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Relocation Best Practices Relocation Management Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs

Expedited Bidding Benefits: How Your Company Can Gain Immediate Results

Two male and two female Relocation Management Company representatives presenting their proposal by video to a male Human Resource Professional who hopes to gain expedited bidding benefits

If your company is seeking better results from your relocation program, expedited bidding benefits bring immediate savings. As many companies learn, outsourcing the management of their relocation program to a Relocation Management Company (RMC) provides several advantages. Doing so through a quick process helps the company achieve even greater results in the short term. Companies that use an expedited bidding process report significant savings in both time and costs.

GMS’ benchmark study of companies that leverage an expedited approach to bidding on the management of their relocation program show why this is a preferred process. Our team of global relocation experts has identified the top five expedited bidding benefits that companies can expect.

Top 5 Expedited Bidding Benefits

1. Cost Savings Right from the Start

Companies instituting an expedited approach create competition in the process. Relocation Management Companies pursuing their business will put forth their most competitive fee structures. Direct costs are likely to be the lowest in the quest to obtain the account. With these immediate savings from the expedited bidding process, companies are assured of cost effective solutions.

2. Complimentary Consulting

Some of the most valuable expedited bidding benefits related to mobility consulting. As part of the process, companies can request many of the following at no cost:

  1. Policy development and revisions
  2. Relocation program design
  3. Current policy reviews

As part of this process, companies can learn much about an RMC’s abilities, including:

  1. Knowledge of relocation processes
  2. Level of experience on points important to the company
  3. Consulting work quality and timeliness

3. Speedy Implementation Saves Time and Offers Quick Access to Expedited Bidding Benefits

Expedited bidding benefits relating to time savings can directly correlate to cost savings. The quicker a relocation program be implemented, the quicker the company achieves program savings and efficiencies. GMS’ data shows that on average, more than 90% of companies using expedited bidding complete their relocation program implementation in just 22 days. Given the amount of work that may be involved, including creating relocation APIs, policy documents, and communication, a shorter implementation timeframe lets the company quickly return its focus to other strategic objectives.

4. Process is a Better Fit for Buying Solutions

Companies that retain an RMC to manage its relocation program understand they are buying solutions that will help their employees. As a result, these solutions require a much different approach than the process they would use to purchase equipment parts or to source machinery. Ultimately, relocation management requires that the company ensures the right fit for the right reasons. The right fit ensures the company will maximize their expedited bidding benefits.

5. Frees up Administrative Burden of Formal Requests

Companies that fully understand their purchasing processes know the amount of administrative burdens and resources necessary to complete formal Requests for Information and/or Proposals. By foregoing these types of resource-intensive approaches that often create more problems for the company, employees can pursue value-added activities while RMCs carry the burden of responses.

What Should Companies do to Gain Expedited Bidding Benefits?

Companies should seek to gain expedited bidding benefits by utilizing an expedited process for outsourcing the management of their relocation program. Relocation Management Companies with extensive industry experience and knowledge will prove to be the best resources in this effort. Qualified RMCs will guide companies to successful results with a customized, right-fit program and greater expedited bidding benefits.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients with their relocation programs.  Our team can help your company gain the maximum amount of expedited bidding benefits by leveraging our expertise to present the most cost-effective and efficient relocation management solutions.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a “.com.” The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation® technology platform.

New SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal

GMS recently launched its new SafeRelo™ COVID-19 Knowledge Portal featuring a number of helpful resources including:

  • Curated selection of news and articles specific to managing relocation programs and issues relating to COVID-19
  • Comprehensive guide to national, international, and local online sources for current data
  • Program/Policy Evaluation (PPE) Tool for instant relocation policy reviews

Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in obtaining expedited bidding benefits, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Consultation

Are you ready to talk to a Mobility Pro? Learn how GMS can optimize your mobility program, enhance your policies to meet today’s unique challenges, receive an in-depth industry benchmark, or simply ask us a question. Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day for a no-pressure, courtesy consultation.

Categories
Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips

Best Places for Business in the U.S.

A close  look at “The Best Places for Business in the U.S.”

Why should you be interested in the best places for business in the United States? On January 3, 2017, Mark Fields, CEO of Ford Motor Company, talked about how Ford was scrapping plans to build a $1.6 billion manufacturing plant in Mexico and instead was going to be investing $700 million into a facility in Detroit. The move would not only save existing jobs in Michigan, but add 700 new ones. Fields stated, “This is a vote of confidence for President-Elect Trump and some of the policies he may be pursuing.” This could also be interpreted as, “We better keep our operations in the U.S. or we will be heavily fined by the new administration.”

Deciding which state may make the most sense, many companies logically look for less expensive, more business-friendly locations to relocate all or parts of their operations. However, if crossing the border is no longer an option due to penalties and political backlash, to which states should companies look when setting up satellite facilities? What are the best places for business in the United States?

In the article “America’s Top States for Business in 2016,” Scott Cohn, Special Correspondent for CNBC, identified ten metrics and weighted them to determine state rankings. These are:

·         Workforce (400 points)

·         Cost of Doing Business (350 points)

·         Infrastructure (350 points)

·         Economy (340 points)

·         Quality of Life (325 points)

·         Technology & Innovation (250 points)

·         Education (200 points)

·         Business Friendliness (160 points)

·         Cost of Living (75 points)

·         Access to Capital (50 points)

By using these metrics, Mr. Cohn was able to compile an ordered list of the top states in which to do business. The top 10 overall rankings for 2016 are:

1.       Utah

2.       Texas

3.       Colorado

4.       Minnesota

5.       North Carolina

6.       Washington

7.       Michigan

8.       Georgia

9.       Iowa

10.   Florida

To view the full list of all 50 states, as well as the scores for each individual metric, visit the CNBC article page.

Should your company be planning a move to a more business-friendly state, be sure to utilize an experienced relocation management company to make the most informed decision and to facilitate your mobile workforce. Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) has been a leader in relocation management since 1987, continuously delivering innovative programs and relocation technology along with award-winning customer service.

Before you move – or even develop your relocation policies – contact GMS for your complimentary benchmark study.

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