Tag: corporate relocation

Categories
Corporate Relocation Employee Development Job Seekers

Why Offering the Best Employee Benefits Is a Competitive Advantage in 2026

pretty African American female shaking hands with her new boss
Business woman, b2b or handshake for collaboration, networking or success partnership deal for company support growth. Business people or HR shaking hands for welcome or thank you for job interview

Employee Retention Strategies Speak Volumes about a Company

In today’s evolving workforce, offering competitive salaries in the hiring process is no longer enough to attract and retain top talent. Employees now value strong benefits packages. These packages support their finances, lifestyle, flexibility, and long-term career growth. 

Employees now value strong benefits packages.  These packages support their finances, lifestyle, flexibility, and long-term career growth. For organizations looking to stay competitive in 2026 and beyond, investing in strong employee benefits is no longer optional; it’s essential.

At the core of this shift is a growing emphasis on the overall employee retention strategies. Candidates are evaluating employers based on how well they support work-life balance, career mobility, and personal needs. Companies that offer robust benefits are better positioned to stand out in a crowded hiring market and to improve retention and engagement among existing employees.

An Employee Benefit That Gets Overlooked

One of the most impactful and often underutilized benefits is corporate relocation benefits. As businesses expand into new markets and adopt more flexible workplace strategies, the need to move talent efficiently has become increasingly important. A well-structured relocation assistance program enables companies to access a broader talent pool, rather than being limited by geography. It also demonstrates a commitment to employee success by easing the financial and logistical burden of moving.

Corporate relocation benefits can include everything from temporary housing and home sale assistance to destination services and miscellaneous expense allowances. When executed effectively, these programs reduce employee stress and help them focus on their new role more quickly. This not only improves productivity but also enhances the employer’s overall perception

Other Benefits to Keep in Mind

Beyond relocation, leading organizations are building benefits packages that reflect modern workforce expectations. This includes flexible work arrangements, mental health support, professional development opportunities, and personalized benefits that cater to diverse employee needs. The goal is to create a holistic approach that supports employees at every stage of their journey.

From a business perspective, the return on investment is clear. Companies that prioritize employee benefits often see lower turnover, higher engagement, and stronger employer branding. In contrast, organizations that fail to evolve risk losing top talent to competitors who offer more comprehensive support.

Ultimately, offering the best possible benefits is about more than just perks; it’s about creating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. HR teams should already be focused on talent attraction strategies. Incorporating strategic benefits like relocation assistance not only strengthens talent acquisition efforts but also reinforces a company’s commitment to growth and mobility.

As the competition for talent intensifies, companies that invest in their people will lead.

Categories
Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Relocation Policy Review

5 Benefits of Corporate Relocation Benchmarking

young corporate employees work together in casual business setting.
Two handsome, diverse colleagues are seen engaging in a productive conversation while utilizing wireless technology and a digital tablet in a modern office setting. Their smart casual attire adds to their professional appearance as successful employees.

What Are the Benefits of Benchmarking relocation policies?

It’s an unfortunate commonality that many businesses create relocation policies and benefits, only to keep them for years without revisiting them. Some companies may provide exceptions to their policies on a case-by-case basis for new hires, but in the end, failing to renew or check these policies could cost companies thousands of dollars. 

 

That is why it is important to benchmark relocation benefits every 12 to 18 months. There are many benefits to staying on top of corporate relocation benchmarking to make sure policies are competitive against peers and competitors. Using relocation benchmarking data can help ensure that transferees have the best possible relocation experience. Here are five benefits of using benchmarking numbers to update relocation programs annually. 

1. Identify Cost Savings and Enhancements

Reviewing how other companies design corporate relocation programs can point out areas where a company can achieve significant cost savings. Taking time to review policies can help highlight parts of the company’s relocation benefits that can be enhanced. Obtaining multiple quotes for services can help save costs and keep your program competitive. These quotes can be obtained across multiple services, such as HHG, visa, and corporate housing. In some cases, you may discover your relocation management company (RMC) does not have an independent vendor network, preventing them from shopping around for the best deals on services. 

 

Using relocation benchmarking data to learn about new and updated regulations can help avoid penalties and costs arising from tax, legal, or immigration issues. The application of technology to processes such as reporting and reimbursement can help save time and money.

2. Ensure Industry Competitiveness

For companies to attract and retain the best talent in their industry, their relocation policies must offer employees a competitive edge compared to their peers. A relocation benchmark will show how industry competitors design their mobility benefits. A company can adjust policies to maintain an advantage and use them as leverage in the offer phase. 

 

If an employee is fielding multiple offers for jobs that require a move, the tiebreaker is often the relocation package. Checking relocation policies yearly can assure that you offer the best relocation benefits in your sector to entice new hires to accept your offer.

3. Learn About New, Innovative Ideas

Companies and industries evolve to respond to the dynamic workforce, changes in the regulatory environment, and increasing employee expectations. When major changes occur, your mobility solutions and relocation policies should address them. A good relocation management company will use mobility technology to its advantage to help the moving employee. Companies and employees can use relocation technology platforms to stay informed throughout the relocation process and to increase communication speed among the employee, company, and RMC. It also provides more visibility into reimbursement numbers. 

 

That being said, it is important to benchmark relocation policies to ensure that there isn’t mobility technology out there that could save time or money when relocating employees.

4. Educate Internal Stakeholders

Most successful companies recognize that several departments and functions interact with their employee’s relocation process. Internal stakeholders from diverse areas, such as legal, finance, and human resources, can learn how the transferee interacts with each department, what their needs are, and what the best practices are related to each function. Involving internal stakeholders in the policy benchmarking process ensures their understanding of policy guidelines and knowledge of how the company’s policies stack up against those of other companies in the same industry. This helps provide for a smoother relocation process for the transferee, as less will be lost in translation during the hiring process.

5. Maintain Alignment Objectives

Many companies that relocate employees regularly have multiple locations across the country, sometimes even worldwide. This is why those companies need to ensure communication of corporate plans and objectives, keeping the entire company up to date. A company’s relocation policy benchmarking should incorporate policies that affect all employee levels, regardless of geography, so that local objectives align with corporate objectives. Knowing that certain areas might have plans for future expansion helps all departments prepare to respond accordingly to employee relocation needs.

Need Help Benchmarking Relocation Policies?

Is your program competitive? Global Mobility Solutions has benchmarked over 1,000 relocation policies spanning 27 unique industries.

GMS provides comprehensive benchmarking services of your policies against industry best practices, while also showcasing what others in your industry are doing. This data has been an important tool in helping companies create and renew their relocation policies.

 

Our team can help write competitive, cost-saving policies by staying on top of numbers across numerous industries for benchmarking. We strive to keep our relocation benchmarking data up to date.

 

If it’s been more than 18 months since your company reviewed its relocation policies, now is the time to contact GMS for benchmarking data to ensure your policies are the best they can be.

What's happening in your industry? Request a Courtesy Benchmark report

At GMS, we make it a priority to know how talent mobility is changing in each major industry. What are the best practices? How are other companies changing their programs to retain a competitive edge? Your Mobility Pro will be in touch within 1 business day to help answer your questions and benchmark your industry.

Total Rewards ’26

Invite flyer to Total Rewards '26


April 19


–


April 22

John from GMS will be attending Total Rewards ’26, WorldatWork’s premier conference, taking place April 19–22, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. This immersive event brings together total rewards, compensation, benefits, and HR professionals for more than 100 expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and curated networking opportunities designed to spark bold ideas and real impact. Attendees will explore the latest strategies and innovations shaping the future of work, connect with peers from across industries, and engage in meaningful conversations that drive professional growth and practical solutions.

John Fernandez

View Organizer Website


Learn more!

2026 HR Conference

2026 HR Conference graphic

March 12 All day

Meet up with Mike at the 2026 HR Conference to connect with HR and mobility leaders navigating today’s evolving workforce challenges. With a people-first mindset and deep global mobility experience, Mike welcomes conversations around building scalable, employee-centered programs. If you’re attending the conference, make time to meet with Mike and explore ideas that can help move your organization forward.

Mike Barone

View Organizer Website

MiRC – February Meeting

MiRC Feb Meeting graphic

February 25 All day

Meet up with Mike at the MiRC February Meeting to connect with fellow mobility professionals and exchange insights on today’s evolving relocation landscape. With deep industry experience and a people-first approach, Mike is always open to meaningful conversations around building more flexible, effective mobility programs. If you’re attending MiRC, be sure to schedule time to meet with Mike and start a conversation that could move your program forward.

Mike Barone

View Organizer Website

CRC – February Meeting

CRC Feb Meeting graphic

February 18 All day

Mike will be attending the Corporate Relocation Council of Chicago (CRCC) meeting this February, where mobility and HR professionals from across the region come together to share insights, discuss evolving relocation trends, and exchange best practices. The meeting offers a valuable opportunity to connect with industry peers, stay current on the challenges and opportunities shaping talent mobility, and engage in meaningful conversations around how organizations can better support relocating employees while aligning mobility programs with broader business goals.

Mike Barone

View Organizer Website

More info here!
Categories
Global Mobility Global Relocation Immigration Rules Relocation Programs Talent Mobility Visas and International Travel

Employee Visa and Immigration Trends for 2026

Visa and immigration specialist going over paperwork with elderly man.

What Global Mobility Teams Need to Know

As global workforces continue to expand and companies increasingly rely on international talent, staying ahead of visa and immigration trends is essential for smooth employee mobility. In 2026, organizations that proactively adapt to shifting regulations and emerging mobility patterns will have a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining top talent.

Digital Immigration Processes Continue to Grow

The trend toward digital-first immigration processes is set to accelerate in 2026. Many governments are expanding online visa applications, e-permit systems, and digital tracking systems, thereby reducing processing times and paperwork. Global mobility teams should ensure employees are aware of online portals, electronic submission requirements, and potential automation tools to streamline compliance.

Rising Demand for Remote Work Visas

Remote and hybrid work arrangements are here to stay. Countries are introducing specialized visas for remote workers and digital nomads, allowing employees to work abroad legally without relocating permanently. In 2026, mobility teams will need to factor remote work visas into workforce planning, balancing talent mobility with tax, legal, and compliance considerations.

Increased Scrutiny on Compliance and Immigration Risk

Governments are tightening regulations to prevent overstays, tax underpayment, or unauthorized employment. For companies relocating employees internationally, compliance risk management will be more critical than ever. Organizations should partner with experienced immigration providers and implement robust tracking systems to avoid penalties and ensure timely visa renewals.

Talent Shortages Drive Visa Flexibility

With global talent shortages in tech, healthcare, and other key industries, countries are updating visa policies to attract skilled workers. Expect faster processing times for specialized visas, priority handling for in-demand roles, and streamlined pathways for permanent residency in some regions. Companies will need to stay informed of these opportunities to remain competitive in global recruitment.

Focus on Employee Experience

Beyond compliance, employee experience remains a key driver of mobility success. Streamlined visa processes, clear communication, and proactive support can significantly reduce relocation stress. In 2026, integrating immigration services with overall relocation programs will be critical for employee satisfaction and retention.

How GMS Can Help with Visa and Immigration Needs

At GMS, we stay ahead of global visa and immigration trends so your mobility program runs smoothly, whether for domestic or international transfers. Our expert team helps your employees navigate complex regulations, ensuring a seamless relocation experience while keeping your organization compliant.

Contact us today for a consultation on enhancing your 2026 mobility strategy.

Categories
Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges Domestic Relocation Tips Global Mobility Global Relocation Global Relocation Challenges Global Relocation Tips Household Goods Relocation Best Practices Relocation Challenges Relocation Management

Best Practices for Relocation: Multiple Bids for Household Goods Moves

Is your RMC helping keep relocation costs in check by taking multiple bids?

It is no secret that competition leads to various benefits, including significant savings for the end user. We have seen the opposite when a company monopolizes a product. Having one choice has never worked out well for consumers. The same applies to corporate relocation and household goods moves.

Many relocation management companies (RMCs) are either owned by or affiliated with van line companies. Therefore, when a client company wants to move its employees, the employees do not have a choice of van lines. The RMC and the van line know that the transferee is at their mercy concerning price, scheduling, and customer service.

However, some RMCs use a multiple-bid process to ensure that transferees get the best price and service. There are some significant benefits to having van lines compete for the relocation business:

  • It encourages the providers to “sharpen their pencils” to provide the lowest reasonable cost
  • It ensures adherence to a company’s relocation policy guidelines
  • It is a way to eliminate any service day surprises

This is all accomplished by having at least two carriers meet with the transferee to create estimates based on the amount that needs to be moved, what requires special handling, and where it needs to be relocated. Then, the RMC audits the estimates to look for inconsistencies, for example:

  • Do the pickup and delivery dates correspond with the move?
  • Does one company estimate more crates than another?
  • Does one company show specialty items that the other company may have missed?
  • How close are the estimated prices?
  • Auditing the bids ensures an apples-to-apples understanding of the van line options and helps weed out potential overages.

    Every carrier knows that its goal is to secure the business. As a result, it offers honest and precise quotes without extra costs. Several relocation policies involving moving companies also come with a maximum estimate guarantee. This helps ensure the relocation process follows industry standards and offers the most suitable solution.

Companies that utilize a multiple-bid process save an average of $1,547 per move! This breaks down to an average of $1,473 to $1,604 for household goods movement and $175 to $289 for car shipments per move.

Although cost is necessary, the experience of the person being transferred is also crucial. Allowing them to meet with various moving companies will help them feel more involved in the moving process. Sometimes, the person being transferred can select the moving company they prefer. 

Even if an estimate is slightly higher than another, if it falls within a certain percentage (based on the client company’s relocation policy) of the lower bid, a transferee may select the more expensive carrier if he or she feels more comfortable with that specific household goods mover. This promotes an overall positive experience because transferees are happier when they think they are heard throughout the relocation process. We all know that happy employees are more productive.

GMS Can Help Companies Save

Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) was the first to introduce the “Freedom of Choice” approach in relocation services. By implementing industry best practices and offering various options from different providers, GMC has helped client companies and their employees reduce costs for services such as moving household goods and obtaining mortgages. GMS is dedicated to creating innovative workforce mobility programs to simplify and enhance the relocation process for clients and their staff.

This innovative method reduces business costs and provides employees with greater autonomy and flexibility during their relocation. By empowering employees to select the services that best suit them, GMS ensures that each person feels appreciated and supported throughout the relocation process. This personalized strategy results in a seamless employee transition and a more streamlined company relocation process. With GMS at the helm of forward-thinking workforce mobility initiatives, businesses can save costs while ensuring employees enjoy a positive and hassle-free relocation journey.

Ready to Calculate YOur Program Savings? Request Access Now!

Are you ready to calculate your potential relocation program savings? Request access to our easy-to-use Relocation Cost Savings Calculator. Your Mobility Pro will grant your access request within 1 business day.

Categories
Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Trends Global Mobility Global Relocation Global Relocation Challenges Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends

Addressing data protection and security issues in your global mobility initiative

2021 Industry Trends: Workforce Mobility Forecast
2021 Industry Trends: Workforce Mobility Forecast

Learn why data privacy is essential for relocation management companies

Ransomware, phishing, hacking, malware, botnets, viruses, spyware, and worms are some cybersecurity threats we face today. One doesn’t need to be an IT expert to recognize that data security risks are significant in our digital age. With personal information now crucial for businesses, conversations on data privacy and protection have moved from technical departments to executive meetings. As companies handle increasing amounts and worth of data, the associated risks also escalate.

The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a widely recognized and established security standard that mandates companies safeguard individuals’ personal information and privacy in the EU and data related to transactions within EU countries. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty financial penalties, fines, and considerable harm to a business’s reputation.

How can you ensure you stay ahead of these challenges?

As your traveling employees move globally, they anticipate that you and your service providers will safeguard their personal information. Organizations have an obligation to their workforce to ensure the protection of sensitive and private data. This duty involves collaborating with reliable partners and vendors who emphasize data privacy and security in their practices. 

Below are five data privacy processes we consider essential for your company, partners, and vendors.

  1. Conduct Regular Risk Assessments: It’s crucial to evaluate the potential risks associated with data handling regularly. This involves identifying vulnerabilities in your systems and processes and assessing your partners’ security measures. By understanding where the risks lie, you can take proactive steps to mitigate them.
  2. Implement Strong Data Encryption: Protecting sensitive information through encryption is a fundamental practice. Ensure that both your company and your vendors use robust encryption methods for data at rest and in transit. This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for unauthorized individuals to access personal information.
  3. Establish Clear Data Access Policies: Define who has access to personal data and under what circumstances. This should include strict guidelines on data sharing and handling. Ensure all employees and partners are trained on these policies to prevent unauthorized access and potential breaches.
  4. Regularly Update Software and Systems: Keeping your software and systems up to date is essential for protecting against vulnerabilities. Ensure your company and vendors are committed to regular updates and patches. This helps to close security gaps that cybercriminals could exploit.
  5. Create an Incident Response Plan: Despite best efforts, breaches can still occur. Having a well-defined incident response plan in place is vital. This plan should outline the steps to take in the event of a data breach, including how to notify affected individuals and regulatory bodies. Regularly review and practice this plan to ensure everyone knows their role in the event of an incident.

Implementing these essential data privacy processes can significantly reduce non-compliance risk and protect employees’ personal information. Remember, data privacy is not just a legal obligation; it’s a commitment to your employees and their trust in your organization.

GMS Takes Data Privacy Serious for Global Mobility Programs

Regardless of whether you are collaborating with a relocation management firm or overseeing your mobility program internally, it is essential to pose these two critical inquiries:

Has your mobility program been committed clearly to data privacy and protection over the past six months?

Does your organization or relocation provider adhere to the trust services principles outlined in a SOC 2 certification?

If your response to either question is “No,” it is crucial to reassess your data security and compliance measures. Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) is one of the few relocation companies holding SOC 2 certification. Contact GMS today to discover how we safeguard your information and data throughout your relocation management program. You can call us at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 for more information.

Our cloud-based relocation technology is designed to help you streamline your company’s relocation management.

Explore MyRelocation®
Categories
Domestic Relocation Tips Domestic Relocation Trends Employee Development Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends

How Employee Relocation Has Changed Over the Years

newly relocated employee meeting with manager for the first time
Latin American man hiring a mover to help him and his wife with the process of moving house and closing the deal with a handshake

Here’s an overview of how talent mobility programs have transformed

Corporate relocation is a relatively recent development compared to farming, production, and hospitality industries. Nevertheless, the sector has experienced significant growth in recent years due to the increasing demand for relocation services.

Throughout history, it has been a frequent practice to transport groups of individuals over long distances to achieve a particular goal. This could be seen in the nomadic tribes who journeyed to find food, the exploration expeditions as countries competed for land, or the missions to procure specific resources. Industry pioneers have traversed vast distances for centuries and engaged with unfamiliar societies to conduct business. The concept of relocating for employment has been ingrained in human culture for centuries, but modern relocation practices took off in the 1950s. 

Following the conclusion of the Second World War, the corporate landscape underwent a significant transformation. Companies began to look for opportunities to grow outside of their domestic markets. The war had paved the way for cross-cultural collaborations, introducing a new era of interconnectedness. This global transition resulted in a notable rise in international assignments, as significant corporations sent their top talent to work in foreign countries.

In 1964, a significant achievement was made in talent relocation history. The establishment of what eventually evolved into the foremost organization for talent management and global mobility expertise, the Worldwide Employee Relocation Council (WERC), represented a significant milestone. This organization played a vital role in shaping the industry as we see it today.

The New Millennium of the 2000's

The significance of relocation services such as Destination Services and Intercultural Training became apparent following major mishaps that led to unsuccessful transactions. The 2000s saw a shift towards prioritizing the well-being of employees as individuals and ensuring the satisfaction of accompanying family members.

Relocation technology also took a huge step forward in making the relocation process more manageable for transferees and their employees. As companies began to recognize the importance of employee satisfaction and retention, the focus on providing comprehensive relocation services grew. This included assistance with finding housing and settling into a new location and support with cultural integration and language training. The emphasis on employee well-being led to the development of more personalized relocation packages tailored to the specific needs of each individual and their family.

Advancements in technology also revolutionized the relocation process, making it easier for employees to navigate the complexities of moving to a new country or city. Online platforms and mobile apps were introduced to streamline the relocation process, providing access to resources and information at the touch of a button. This improved the efficiency of relocation services and enhanced the overall experience for employees and their families.

Overall, the 2000s marked a significant shift in how companies approached employee relocation, emphasizing the well-being and satisfaction of their workforce. The evolution of relocation services and technology during this time laid the foundation for the modern global mobility industry, setting the stage for continued innovation and improvement in the years to come.

The Relocation Industry Today and Beyond

In today’s global economy, Switzerland, China, the United States, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore, and Canada are top choices for international corporate relocations. Successful companies have flexible relocation partnerships to navigate the fast-paced business landscape. Dwellworks is well-equipped to streamline moves with a comprehensive range of services one interconnected company provides. 

Like many other sectors, the corporate relocation sector has been impacted by technological advancements. Cultural training services can now be accessed remotely and at flexible times to accommodate the hectic schedules of relocating workers. By utilizing technology, cultural trainers and Destination Services Consultants can customize their services to offer the most precise and practical support to new arrivals.

GMS Is, and Has Always, Been the Industry Leader

Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) has been a leader in the relocation industry since 1987. Our expert team is always willing to listen to your talent mobility needs and assist you in creating the best employee relocation policies.

With the rise of technology, GMS has adapted to provide top-notch services to meet the evolving needs of its clients. From virtual cultural training sessions to personalized consultations, GMS ensures that every aspect of the relocation process is tailored to the individual needs of each employee. This commitment to excellence has solidified GMS’s reputation as the industry leader in corporate relocation services.

Furthermore, GMS’s long-standing presence in the industry has allowed it to establish strong relationships with a network of trusted partners worldwide. This extensive network ensures that employees receive seamless support throughout the relocation process, regardless of where they are moving.

In conclusion, GMS’s dedication to innovation, personalized service, and global partnerships make it the go-to choice for companies seeking reliable and efficient corporate relocation solutions. Trust GMS to handle your talent mobility needs with professionalism and expertise. 

Contact us today if you’re ready to speak with a relocation expert.

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.

Accessibility by WAH

Looking for something?