Tag: global relocation

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Advantages of Using an RMC for International Relocation

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Couple talking about the decoration of the new home sitting on a staircase.

Learn the Advantages of working with an international relocation management company

Interviewing and hiring international job candidates can be the best way to open up your company’s talent pool. When jobs are only offered to local or domestic candidates, it can be hard to assure that the most qualified employee is filling the seat. But when your company can field applications from all over the world, it can give countless more options for getting the person with the best skill set for the position. 

There is also the case of global assignments; companies with multiple international entities, multinational projects, or in expansion mode often need to fill specialized roles with knowledge and skills that may not be readily available locally. So, the company may need to send them to another location for a set period. Additionally, foreign assignments provide employee development and career pathing.

So, what’s the best route of action to take for international relocation services? The first recommendation would be to work with a relocation management company (RMC) to hash out the global relocation benefits that your company is willing to offer new employees. Working with a qualified and experienced RMC covers your bases for bringing on a new employee from another country. It’s not just a domestic move where the company can pay movers on the employee’s behalf. There are tax rules, immigration compliances, and other factors to be covered. 

When conducting global mobility practices, teaming up with an RMC is the best way to go. Here are some vital relocation services that an RMC can provide:

1) International Relocation Policies

Each international relocation assignment is different. Each employee will have other wants and needs. So, there is no one-fits-all relocation package. That does not mean making up a process as you go for each new hire. It’s essential to have policies set in place to ensure some order when the new employee signs.


The process starts with an unbiased needs assessment where the RMC conducts the initial call to determine the employee’s and family’s needs. From there,  a policy review is conducted, and proper expectations for the assignment are set for international transfer. Suppose there is no assignment or transfer policy in place. In that case, it is highly recommended to work with an RMC to develop an international assignment letter, which serves as a written agreement on salary and benefits for the transfer process.

A qualified RMC will be able to assist in setting up some common relocation policies to include benefits and services aligned with your policy objectives and budgetary and compliance requirements. For example, key services within a typical assignment or transfer policy may consist of:

  • Corporate housing options
  • Home-sale/home-buying assistance programs 
  • A vetted list of moving companies
  • Spousal and family support initiatives 
  • Visa and immigration
  • Travel coordination booking
  • International expense and compensation
  • Language and cultural training

2) International Relocation Costs

One of the most significant advantages of working with an RMC is cost control. It’s no secret that getting an employee from point A to point B can be expensive, even more so for an international move. When you work with an RMC, they can help keep costs in line because they provide a list of experienced vendors. Any great relocation service provider will have this list of vendors vetted and verified for top service. But the best way to save on relocation costs is to work with an RMC that accepts multiple bids in the pre-decision stage. If an RMC gets multiple bids from vendors on moving services, they can help assure that your company can provide relocation benefits without breaking the bank.

3) Immigration Compliance

A critical service for any international assignment or transfer is Visa and Immigration. Effectively managing and maneuvering through compliance laws can save your company time and money. Most RMCs will have a team that can handle all of the immigration services needed for your new employee and their family. 

Working with a top-ranked RMC can help you make sure you’re covered when it comes to: 

  • Passport application assistance
  • Document procurement and conditioning services
  • Post-arrival filing services
  • Work permit applications
  • Business visa applications
  • Entry clearances
  • Derivative family permits
  • Extensions of any of the documents mentioned above

4) Tax Compliance

Effective tax planning requires an understanding of international tax laws and how these laws apply to the employee’s new destination. This is why working with an RMC for global tax compliance needs gives your company the advantage of having experienced experts on hand. In addition, relocation tax professionals dedicated exclusively to the tax issues impacted by global mobility will know precisely how to handle the new employee’s tax needs. 

5) Household Goods Shipping

Moving an employee’s household goods to another country is not an easy task. When it comes to household goods shipping, teaming up with an RMC can make everyone’s life easier. There is a lot to handle when it comes to moving personal belongings. But an RMC can assist in handling all the details from start to finish. Including, as mentioned before, gathering multiple quotes to find the most cost-efficient company to hire for moving services. Most RMCs will also have relocation technology that may even help track where the employee’s household goods are in the process.

GMS Specializes in International Relocation Services

Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) is happy to assist your company with its global mobility policies. There are numerous advantages to partnering with GMS as your RMC. For over thirty years, we have been helping companies build successful employee mobility programs. We are here to provide international relocation services that meet the challenges of today with solutions for tomorrow. 

As the global mobility industry leader, GMS takes the time to understand your business’s needs, then customize comprehensive relocation packages based on your business needs. From pre-decision to destination arrival and beyond, GMS is here to address your needs with world-class services and industry-leading technology. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our relocation experts, or check out our cost savings calculators to see how GMS can save money while adding significant quality.

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Global Mobility Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends Visas and International Travel

Zoom Town Options for International Relocation

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Singapore skyline at night.

Check Out These Countries That Offer Relocation Incentives

Countless companies are continuing to allow their teams to work remotely. These changes have primarily been due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting shift in corporate culture. Working remotely from home has become a new normal for numerous industries. It has gotten to the point where “home” can be somewhere new almost every year. Employees are relocating to where they are most comfortable for their personal life as they no longer need to report to a physical office on a daily basis. Because of this, many cities and provinces are seeing an influx of new workers (and new taxpayers) as their populations grow.

What Are Zoom Towns?

A Zoom Town can be loosely defined as a town or province seeing an increase in population due to remote employees opting to move in. The phrase was coined from the broadly popular corporate movement to allow people to work remotely during the pandemic and the meteoric rise of “Zoom” as the virtual meeting platform of choice. 

 

Due to this phenomenon, various local and regional governments around the globe are getting creative in their competition for new wage earners. It has gotten to the point where these destinations are offering relocation incentives to remote workers considering a move within their borders. Many of these towns are looking to revitalize and compete by growing their population and gaining more working professionals. 

 

Now that people are accustomed to working remotely, many are looking into international relocation. There are Zoom Towns in other countries, some offering lucrative relocation incentives. If you’re looking to relocate internationally within the next year, here are some of the fastest-growing Zoom Towns abroad:

Switzerland

The village of Alibnen in the mountains of Switzerland is offering a rich relocation incentive. The town will shell out USD 25,200 to newcomers. On top of that, the Swiss government will give USD 10,000 per child that relocates with the family. Of course, there is some fine print for this great incentive. First off, applicants have to be under the age of 45. The property purchased in Alibnen has to be a permanent home, not a secondary residence. Also, the property has to hold a minimum value of 200,000 francs (about USD 201,600).

Italy

When many people think about Italy, they think about gorgeous landscapes and delicious food. This is why it is a popular destination for remote workers researching international relocation destinations. If you are considering Italy, it is worth looking at the town of Candela. This small town is offering grants of €800 euros per person and up to €2,000 for couples with children. Applicants of the grant can also take advantage of tax breaks. The only major requirement for this program is that the relocating workers have to live in Candela full-time, rent a house, and have a job with a minimum yearly salary of €7,500.

Greece

Another example of a creative incentive program is the Greek island of Antikythera. The program is closed as of the time of this article, but the island of Antikythera was trying hard to boost and revitalize it’s population number of 50 residents by offering relocation incentives. Those willing to relocate there could apply to receive housing, land, and an allowance of 500 euros a month for the three years from the Greek Orthodox Church, approximately USD 20,000 in incentives. 

 

Fortunately, Antikythera’s incentives worked! The island has seen an influx of young families and is now home to a climate research center.

Croatia

Legrad is a small town in northern Croatia that is looking to increase its population of just over 2,000 residents. In doing so, anyone looking to relocate to Legrad can bid on a house starting at just $0.16 (1 kuna). While an entire home for only 16 cents sounds great, there is a drawback. There are a limited number of homes in the town that can be purchased at the incentive price. However, there is good news – the mayor of Legrad pledged up to $3,979 (25,000 kuna) towards any refurbishments that newcomers would like to make to their houses. 

GMS Can Help with International Relocation

Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) is the industry leader in the corporate mobility market. Since 1987 we have been helping companies relocate their employees both domestically and internationally. Our relocation-specialized team stays up-to-date on all the government-provided relocation incentives offered in various cities, states/provinces, and countries. 


Our team also can help with any visa and immigration questions you may have when it comes to moving an employee to a new destination. You can contact us today with any questions or book a free consultation with one of our experienced consultants who can provide you with a courtesy review of your current relocation program and provide feedback on how to maintain a competitive talent mobility program.

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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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Domestic Relocation Challenges Domestic Relocation Tips Domestic Relocation Trends Employee Development Global Mobility

4 Products in Low Supply: Impact on Relocating Employees

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Pricing on these products could affect relocation

It can be more complicated than just hiring a moving company to ship their household goods when relocating an employee. Many factors need to be taken into consideration when getting a transferee to their new destination. One of the significant factors to think about is the cost of living difference between their current home and the new destination. When certain products or materials are harder to get or are experiencing pricing increases, it can place additional pressure on the employee and jeopardize the relocation. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, there have been supply chain issues and shipping delays around the world. Some products are back-ordered for months at a time, ultimately increasing prices on many products, further complicated by lack of manufacturing productivity. This can affect those moving for a new job through increased prices on common cost of living items such as food and fuel, potentially increasing employees’ wage requirements. While companies can’t always raise salary expectations right away, keeping the cost of living changes in mind when sending the employee an offer letter is recommended. 

If your company relocates employees, these four product shortages might affect their lives in their new destination:

Food Costs

This one probably hits close to home for a lot of people. With grocery stores also having labor challenges and with problems in food production, grocery prices may stay higher than usual in 2022. COVID-19 and its variants upended operations in food manufacturing plants around the world. As workers called in sick or day-to-day production policies had to be changed to keep workers safe, many fell behind in their order fulfillment and still have not caught up yet. Food product shortages are also due to the trucker driver shortage that the US and Canada are experiencing right now. 

When you look at the difference in food costs from city to city, that alone creates a cost of living increase or decrease. Typically, groceries are more expensive in high-end markets such as San Fransico, CA than in Topeka, KS. The addition of product shortages and shipping problems adds to the total price for someone moving from a mid-sized or small city to a larger one.

Lumber

Lumber prices have soured as of late to the point where homebuilders are increasing prices in an attempt to offset the demand. Many lumber mills were forced to shut down during the pandemic due to safety concerns. Then when the mills reopened, they were already behind in producing enough lumber to fulfill the extreme housing market needs. The real estate trends in calls for lumber were not just new-build homes either. As many workers started working from home and mortgage rates dropped to new lows, there was a rise in home remodeling. 

Many people might not realize that the price of wood also impacts moving supplies such as paper and cardboard. Lumber prices for the shipping industry also impact items such as shipping crates and pallets, which are produced for moving companies. Increases in material prices are naturally passed along to the end-customers who are moving.

Furniture

Always known as the “hidden cost of moving,” buying furniture for a new home is something that most people don’t calculate when making offers on houses. The furniture industry saw a boom when work from home became the new normal for many workers. People were more likely to spend more updating their furniture in order to be comfortable while spending most of their days from home. Because many U.S. furniture parts come from China, the global shipping container shortage has delayed many shipments that have some furniture companies months behind on orders. Once again, because of all the issues with shipping containers, the furniture industry can only ship out so many sets each month.

Semiconductors

Demand for computer chips has naturally lowered supply. Many companies are shifting their workforce remotely, meaning more laptops and computer products are needed for employees working from home. Semiconductor manufacturers are trying to ramp up production, but with sky-high demand, it is hard to see them catching up to the curve before the end of 2022. 

Additionally, semiconductors are used in vast swathes of products these days, including vehicles. Near the onset of the pandemic, rental car companies sold perceived excesses in their fleets. Demand surprisingly skyrocketed, but due to shortages in semiconductors, vehicle manufacturers couldn’t keep up with rental fleet production demand which, in turn, caused shortages of rental vehicles. This has caused significant increases in rental car costs for employees who are relocating and need temporary transportation while traveling.

GMS Keeps You Up to Date with Industry News

At Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) we take pride in being the industry leader for providing global mobility services. Our team assists companies in relocating employees and providing benchmarking studies specific to our clients’ industries. We also keep our customers on top of industry trends in relocation, real estate, transportation, and more. Fill out the form below to receive courtesy information on your particular industry today!

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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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Employee Development Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends Visas and International Travel

2023 H-1B Registration Details

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Envelope from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services with the American flag on top/U.S. immigration concept

Get more details on H-1B Cap registration

Looking to file a new H-1B case? With some updated guidelines, employers must complete registrations using the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) online H-1B registration system. This online process is a simple way to complete H-1B registrations, where employers submit details for their desired candidates who they intend to sponsor for a new H-1B in 2022 or 2023. The online form avoids manual paperwork and can cut down on costs for employers. The cost for registration is $10 per sponsored candidate.

New H-1B case registrations are capped at an annual quota of 85,000. From that number, 20,000 are available to candidates who have earned an advanced degree from a U.S. college or university, making the remaining 65,000 available for other qualified candidates.

USCIS introduced the concept of H-1B registration in 2020. There were just over 380,000 registrations filed for FY 2022 and about 275,000 registrations filed for FY 2021.

H-1B Lottery

When USCIS receives more than 85,000 registration cases, a random lottery will be run on the pool of registrations. Once the lottery is finalized, USCIS notifies those chosen. From there, successful selectors then file a full H-1B petition. One for each candidate must be filled out.

Cap-subject petitioners looking to get H-1B, or their representatives, will be able to create accounts starting at noon Eastern on Feb. 21, 2022. Candidate submissions open March 1, 2022, for any company that is set up in the system. 

It is highly anticipated that USCIS will receive more than 85,000 registrations by the March 18th, 2022 deadline, from there they will plan to run a lottery then notify successful registrants by March 31, 2022.

H-1B cap-subject petitions include those for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption. Only those with a valid registration number selected during the H-1B registration process may petition.

GMS Can Help with Any Visa & Immigration Needs

Global Mobility Solutions is a full-fledged international relocation services company. Our goal is to help companies get their employees to their new destinations as easily as possible. GMS works with the most knowledgeable people in the industry when it comes to visa and immigration needs. We can help your employees get all of their paperwork done and questions answered. Feel free to reach out to us today to get started the process of fulfilling all your global mobility needs.

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Properly managing a visa and immigration program involves meticulous coordination, precise communication, and worldwide interaction with government agencies, corporate personnel, and relocating employees.

At GMS, we provide you with peace of mind in knowing your mobility program is fully compliant and being managed by the best in the industry.

Request a no-pressure, courtesy consultation from a GMS Mobility Pro. We’ll be in touch within 1 business day.

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Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges Domestic Relocation Tips Domestic Relocation Trends Global Relocation Global Relocation Challenges Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs

Relocation Policy Review: Anticipating Changes and Challenges

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Why Companies should review their Relocation Policies?

It is important, and highly recommended, that companies review their relocation policies at the start of each year. This will help your company remain at the forefront of your industry, ahead of your competitors, and in line with best practice recommendations. Most companies are not completely immune to global forces, market changes, and unique challenges such as the COVID-19 global pandemic. Often these issues directly impact employees on international assignments.

There are several reasons why companies need relocation benefits. Often, relocation perks are used for hiring a recruit for an open position. Other times, companies may use relocation to transfer knowable employees to different job sites or as part of a development program offered through the company when promoting an existing employee. But no matter the reason, all sizes of company who offer talent mobility should have their relocation policies reviewed with some regularity. Here is a breakdown of why relocation policy review is important:

 

Address Strategic Objectives in Your Relocation Policy Review

Growing companies often have strategic plans that guide activities and investments. Many of these plans lay out specific goals and actions. For example, a company that wants to grow into a new market might leverage their relocation policy review in several ways to achieve this goal. This may include investigating the services of an International Professional Employer Organization (PEO). PEOs can help a company establish a presence in a new market within a very short timeframe and with no direct investment. As a result, companies can focus on achieving strategic objectives and responding nimbly to market changes. In return, the company saves time, effort, and resources. Also, the overall costs of service fees and financing international employees’ payroll are significantly lower than the cost of establishing a foreign entity.

Cost Reductions and Process Improvements Can Be Found

Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) with extensive industry knowledge and experience can help identify cost reductions. There may be several areas that offer cost reduction opportunities during a relocation policy review. Also, the mobility industry often changes rapidly in response to needs, preferences, and regulations. As a result, knowledgeable RMCs can easily identify and share new ideas for cost reductions.

RMCs are often drivers in the mobility industry for process improvements. Technology can lead to dramatic increases in productivity. For example, a Relocation API can replace many time-consuming data entry tasks and responsibilities. In turn, valuable resources are freed up to focus on critical business and department issues.

Maintaining Your Company’s Competitive Market Position

Every relocation policy review should include and reference benchmarking studies. These studies should show what your company’s industry competitors are providing in their policies. Your company should have information to know whether its relocation policy provides benefits that at least match the competition. A thorough relocation policy review can help identify areas that need to change in order to maintain your organization’s competitive position.

Ensures Company Policy Remains Compliant

National and international regulations can frequently change. Constant changes in visa requirements, immigration, tax laws, health recommendations, and other regulations directly impact relocation programs and employees. Conducting a relocation policy review helps your company learn what is changing, what may change in the future, and how to adjust your relocation policy accordingly. The review also provides information that your company can share with internal company stakeholders and employees who utilize the policy.

When Should Relocation Benefits Be Reviewed?

Companies should arrange a relocation policy review about every 12 months. As markets and global dynamic forces change at an ever faster pace, transferees are often some of the first employees to face direct impacts. As a result, the company’s relocation policy should be current and provide industry-leading solutions. This will result in greater employee satisfaction, and enhance talent acquisition and retention efforts.

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients with their relocation policy review. Our mobility consulting team understands the dynamic nature of the corporate relocation market. GMS provides expert guidance for relocation policies, as a result, our team ensures that our clients’ transferees receive immediate assistance as required, clients remain competitive, their relocation programs maximize efficiencies, and they can leverage several cost reduction opportunities.

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.

To schedule your relocation policy review or to receive an industry-specific policy benchmarking overview, contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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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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Domestic Relocation Global Relocation Relocation Best Practices Relocation Management Relocation Programs

U.S. Domestic vs International Relocation Costs: More Than Just The Miles

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A Look Into the Major Difference Between Domestic and International Relocation Expenses

In today’s competitive job market, hiring the best employee for an open position can be a long, but rewarding process. In order to remain a top contender for talent, it is important to ensure your recruiting efforts are backed by well-optioned relocation services, allowing you to source talent outside of your immediate region. Companies who work with a relocation management company (RMC) give their HR department and recruiters access to important tools that enhance their ability to hire the best possible employees, taking the company to the next level. 

The operation of any relocation program comes with necessary expenses, however, the relative cost of these expenses and their service categories will vary by the services utilized and the type of relocation being performed. For example, the service mixture (and by extension, the total cost) of a typical relocation that occurs within the United States and one that is international can be very different. 

Let’s explore a few of the primary cost factor differences between a domestic relocation and an international relocation.

Typical Costs Incurred During Domestic Relocation

When accepting a position in a new state, the high-cost services are usually moving costs and real estate assistance. Most companies include assistance for both in most average relocation packages. Short-term or temporary housing is another benefit that is usually included in relocation services that can help to increase the overall cost. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the more common domestic relocation benefits:

Selling Your Home

Oftentimes, selling a home isn’t a simple process. Listings and showings alone can take weeks before the ball starts rolling with suitable offers to purchase. Additionally, the sale of a home is not considered cheap. The cost of selling your property can easily rise to several thousand, if not tens of thousands, of dollars. Many employees simply don’t have the liquidity or equity to cover such an expense.

Some relocation management companies include real estate assistance in their relocation benefits. These benefits can include home-sale programs like the BVO, GPO, and Direct Reimbursement, in simpler terms this part of the relocation package is real estate assistance. Each program has different pros and cons but overall can help in any situation. These various programs are all designed to help alleviate the financial stress of selling what many transferees would consider their most expensive asset. 

Relocation companies typically are always up to date with real estate trends and offer real estate agents who specialize in the relocation process. There is also a chance that using one of these programs, if the relocating employee has a hard time selling their home, the RMC will purchase the home from them so they can continue their relocation on a reasonable timeline.

Short-term Housing Options

Also known as corporate housing or temporary housing, short-term housing is a great relocation benefit when utilized. These are usually furnished apartments where the relocating employee and their family can stay, usually for 30 to 90 days, while they await their belongings from the moving company and look for a more permanent home. This gives the employee a better chance to research neighborhoods and schools where they would want their family to live. 

As with many things, time is money. The longer the stay in short-term housing, the higher the overall direct cost. This causes temporary housing costs to be one of the key cost considerations for many relocations.

Moving & Transportation

Moving locally can be complicated enough, when it comes to moving an entire household to a new city or state, many do not fully understand the costs involved. Manpower costs and shortage in the HHG industry are a historic challenge, but market pressures on items such as packaging materials and fuels have become a new dynamic that have caused transportation costs to climb in recent years.

The packing and transporting of the employee’s belongings to their new destination in a safe and timely manner is important for a successful relocation. Using a quality moving company to ship all household goods greatly reduces stress and increases efficiency in the moving process.

Typical Costs Associated with Global Relocation

When it comes to international relocation, there are (generally) additional costs to consider above and beyond those that occur in a typical domestic relocation. Most of the benefits stated above are also included with global mobility assignments or permanent relocations, along with some more in-depth benefits that have to be involved when relocating to a new country. One key benefit should be assistance in applying and obtaining the correct visa and immigration paperwork. Here are some of the benefits included in an international relocation package that will have their own impact on the overall cost of the move:

Visa Fees

Visa applications and renewals can be a trying process. Depending on the employee and their situation, it can cover over $1,000 for all paperwork to be filed. Relocation companies tend to work with visa experts to avoid missteps, which will save everyone time and money in the long run. Companies who are hiring international candidates typically include provisions in their policies to cover any visa and immigration applications that are needed to be able to work for them internationally.

Moving Insurance

There will be some common coverage for household goods through the household goods transportation company, but oftentimes when it comes to international moves, items are sent by sea. This requires different types and ranges of coverage when compared to a domestic move. Purchasing property transportation insurance can help cover any mishaps to items as they arrive at the new destination. Most RMCs will urge companies to cover this cost in their relocation packages.

Storage Costs

International moves can be hard to coordinate, so one may find themselves in need of storage for a period of time. In most cases, HHG storage assistance is needed because the transferee hasn’t been able to find a new home yet. Others may need long-term storage as they are on an extended assignment and it is not necessary to ship their entire household to their assignment location. When there are storage options available in the relocation package, it can help the relocating employee greatly.

GMS Can Help No Matter Where You’re Headed

Global Mobility Solutions has dedicated teams for both domestic and international relocation. Our certified relocation coaches and assignment managers have handled moves from almost any state or country and can help no matter where you’re headed. Our domestic relocation services include handling all aspects of the move, including pre-decision, departure, and destination services. On the international side, we provide assistance from pre-assignment to assignment management to repatriation. 

Relocation costs can add up, but working with GMS, you gain access to a vetted and competitive mobility service provider network, complete end-to-end management of your program, and the industry know-how to ensure your program is running as efficiently as possible. Reach out to us today with any questions regarding global mobility.

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 Domestic Relocation Household Goods Relocation Best Practices Relocation Management

Understanding Third-Party Household Goods Shipping

Why Relocation Service Providers Use Third-Party Moving Companies

Relocating for a new job can be a great opportunity for an individual or family. It can lead to new job opportunities, new friends, and new beginnings. Most people who have moved to a new area know that along with the excitement comes stress. Companies that provide their relocating employees with mobility benefits through a relocation management company (RMC) can help reduce the stress of the move. 

The RMC assists the company in providing all the services that one might need to move for their new job. Shipping one’s household goods from their current home to their new place is usually a key benefit that is included for those who are taking advantage of their company’s relocation policies. 

If you are an employee that is about to go through the relocation process, you might have already noticed that the RMC you are working with uses a third-party moving company to handle the shipping of all household goods. But why are third-party transportation companies used and what does the typical move process look like? 

What Role Does the Third-Party Moving Company Play?

Typically, the RMC will reach out to the relocating employee to gather information on the employee’s household goods that need to be shipped to their location. The RMC will use that information to set the employee up with a trusted, high-quality moving company from an already vetted network of providers. In some cases, some RMCs will get multiple quotes before choosing third-party services for a relocating employee. This is also the stage where the mover can note if they have any items that need special attention before being moved, like being taken apart or packed in a specific manner. These items usually consist of artwork, glass items, TVs, pianos, and other higher valued items. 

From there, the moving company will coordinate with the transferring employee to set up packing days, loading, transit, and delivery days. To assure the household goods can arrive on time for the employee, RMCs will often assign a relocation specialist or coach to aid the employee in coordinating the various moving parts of their relocation, including the shipment of their household goods. The employee’s Relocation Coach will help coordinate with the moving company and ensure that the employee is maximizing their benefits and that they are being used properly. This point of contact will also typically provide check-ins with the employee during the pack and load process, tracking updates, and shipment status information.

Third-party Specialty Services Might Have to Be Used

Another advantage that the RMC’s third-party service provider network can help with is if custom crating and specialty moving services are needed to move the employee’s household goods. Many fragile and high-valued items will require specialized crating due to the unique nature of each individual item. Crating provides the highest level of damage protection during the moving process. These specialty services are used for items such as pianos, billiard tables, televisions, and more. Many local moving companies may not be qualified to manage the movement of these types of items. 

These specialty services can support the move process by disassembling furniture to safe shipment and the reduction of space needed on the moving truck or shipping container. Unmounting/mounting wall-mounted televisions, the removal and packaging of chandeliers, and the movement of bulky or heavy items (such as exercise equipment or safes) can also fall under the purview of a moving specialist. The use of these specialists helps to add an extra layer of protection to the employee’s household goods, ensuring that their belongings will be moved properly with little to no damage or loss.

GMS Ensures Quality with Third-Party Household Goods Shipping

Global Mobility Solutions has a vast network of reputable moving, storage, and specialty companies that we work with when helping employees move. It is our goal at GMS to only work with 3rd-party service providers who deliver guaranteed customer service and competitive market rates. On top of that, GMS emphasizes the overall customer experience and constantly monitors feedback through our surveys to identify what is working and what may need improvement.

Relocation can seem like a long process, but in working with an RMC like GMS, we can help streamline your program, help develop competitive workforce mobility policies and manage a worldwide network of mobility professionals on your behalf. If you have any questions about corporate relocation or are looking to update your company’s relocation policies, reach out to us today. 

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Global Mobility Global Relocation Global Relocation Trends Relocation Programs

Tokyo-based Employees Urged to Use Relocation Incentives

Busy Tokyo streets
Entertainment night life district at Kabukicho in Shinjuku Tokyo.

Japanese government is offering workers perks to relocate to less-populated areas

Tokyo, always known for being one of the most populated cities in the world, is starting to get just a little too crowded. The dynamic lifestyle of this great city is what brings many people to it in the first place. Many relocate to Tokyo for school but then remain for job opportunities. With so many people living in Japan’s capital now, it is estimated that 30% of the country’s entire population is concentrated in the greater Tokyo metropolitan area. This resulted after 25 years of year-over-year hikes in the population numbers. The number of inbound migrants in 2020 was about 38,000, a significant decrease from about 87,000 in 2019 (down about 56%), but still of significant volume.

This centralization of the Japanese population in Tokyo has been identified as a significant national risk. The potential (and realized) damages to the country and the economy that can be caused by disasters such as infectious diseases and earthquakes occurring in such a densely populated area have highlighted the need for a change in thinking. The mitigation of the impact of such disasters occurring in Tokyo can be helped by working towards the building of a decentralized society.

Additional benefits of this new direction can create a positive impact on the people that live in Japan. While there is much to do in Tokyo, like all major cities, there are a few drawbacks. The crowds in this big city atmosphere can make life harder, especially in a pandemic setting like most of the world as seen in the past two years. Additionally, the cost of living is not cheap. Living in the greater Tokyo area can be extremely expensive compared to more rural countryside areas of Japan. In fact, Tokyo is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world.

So, what is Japan doing to promote citizens to consider moving to more rural and less crowded parts of the country? The government is offering relocation incentives to those who are able to work remotely from their new home. This big urge to relocate people to less crowded areas can be financially beneficial for those willing to do so.

Financial Support Relocation Incentives

Hoping to revitalize the rural parts of Japan, the government is offering individuals grants of up to 1 million yen (about $9,000 USD) to move out of Tokyo, while working remotely of course. Remote work is an important aspect of this program, removing the need to commute in and out of Tokyo for work. It has been reported that the government is committed to shelling out more than $10 billion yen in grants for this program. 

On top of the grants, local governments are also offering programs to attract new residents to their cities and towns. Many municipalities are providing ongoing support to help new residents find employment. Some of these programs are even geared toward helping entrepreneurs establish a new business in a local storefront. There are also some relocation programs that are helping movers either purchase or rent a home in their new area.

Experience Relocation Support Through GMS

Japan is one of many countries right now offering government relocation incentives. Contact GMS today with any questions regarding your relocation program, policies, or needs. Our qualified team has been helping people relocate all over the world since 1987. We will listen to your needs, examine your relocation program, and provide expert feedback on how to develop a competitive program based on industry best practices.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Visa Program Consultation

Properly managing a visa and immigration program involves meticulous coordination, precise communication, and worldwide interaction with government agencies, corporate personnel, and relocating employees.

At GMS, we provide you with peace of mind in knowing your mobility program is fully compliant and being managed by the best in the industry.

Request a no-pressure, courtesy consultation from a GMS Mobility Pro. We’ll be in touch within 1 business day.

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Employee Development Global Mobility Global Relocation Immigration Rules

Employer Immigration Compliance Must Be Spoken: Guidance for Cross-Border Mergers & Acquisitions

US visa and immigration services with American flag
Envelope from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services with the American flag on top/U.S. immigration concept

Get Ahead of Problems Faced in Cross-border Mergers and Acquisitions

Merging branches or acquiring new businesses is a complex process. These transactions involve numerous parties and have an abundant number of moving parts. This is the case, even more so, with cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A). What happens when the merger or acquisition is obtained in another country? 

Businesses are understandably focused on the economic and financial aspects of the deal, not so much on employer immigration compliances. However, these compliances are important and should not be overlooked. Imagine trying to relocate or transfer employees from one branch to another, only to be held up by visa and immigration issues. The issues that delay employment transitions and the assessment of liabilities are best addressed early in the process to allow your organization enough time to overcome any compliance risks. 

In almost any merger, acquisition, or change of entity, employers will need comprehensive plans to ensure relocating employees are able to validate their immigration status for their new country of employment. Employers who fail to accurately assess their immigration needs risk major business and labor disruptions, or the loss of key employees due to visa and immigration holdbacks. 

An effective M&A agreement will be prepared and determined appropriate based on the following points:

Deal Structure

Is it a stock/share deal?
With a stock purchase, the legal entity being purchased is often maintained and the purchasing company inherits all of its foreign workers. It will be up to the purchasing company to confirm that all these workers’ permits/visas are compliant and if any changes to immigration status will be needed.

Is a new legal entity being created?
As often is the case with a merger, an entirely new entity is created. Under some jurisdictions and work permit types, foreign employees are only authorized to work for the original company that sponsored them. In these situations, a new work permit may need to be applied for, or at the very least, an amendment made to the existing permit.

Change in Staffing

Will the deal affect any employment contract type or status?
In many countries, a foreign worker’s employment authorization is tied to the employment contract they signed with their original employer. If this contract is made void through a merger or acquisition, the status of the work permit could be as well. It is important to check with the local immigration authorities to see if amendments are needed. 

Will the deal cause any employee on a work permit/visa to be promoted or demoted?
Often a foreign employee’s type of work authorization is tied to their seniority/position or their income level. Depending on the jurisdiction and the terms of the work permit/visa there may need to be a change of status filed with the local authorities. 

Will the location of work permit/visa holders change?
In some countries, a foreign worker’s visa/permit may be tied to a particular province/state or even city. If workers are going to relocate to another region because of a merger or acquisition, an amendment may need to be made to their work authorization. 

Will job titles of work permit/visa holders change?
Depending on the country and type of work authorization originally granted, if a merger or acquisition results in the changing of job titles for foreign workers there may need to be an amendment made to their work permit.  

Will job descriptions of work permit/visa holders change?
If a work authorization was originally granted based on a foreign worker’s particular skills and the type of work they perform, it is important to check if new work authorizations will be required if their job description is going to change. 

Will salaries of work permit/visa holders be adjusted?
In some countries, a foreign worker’s visa/work permit type is often tied to their income level. If there are changes, he/she may require a new work permit or have an amendment made to their existing work authorization.

Assess Potential Red Flags

Understand visa/work permit processing time
If changes or amendments are needed to foreign workers’ work permits/visas, it is important to understand what processing times will be applicable. Processing times can vary drastically in different countries, and if not correctly managed a company might find itself in a situation where many of their foreign workers are not able to legally work immediately after the date of a merger or acquisition.

GMS Can Help with Employer Immigration Compliances

Global Mobility Solutions can help businesses with all of their global mobility needs and concerns, including companies who face problems with cross-border mergers and acquisitions. We partner with top visa and immigration companies to assure our clients’ their employees and their families are taken care of. Don’t let employer immigration compliance keep your company from merging or acquiring new branches. Contact us today to discuss your needs with a professional relocation expert.

We're Here to Help! Request a Courtesy Visa Program Consultation

Properly managing a visa and immigration program involves meticulous coordination, precise communication, and worldwide interaction with government agencies, corporate personnel, and relocating employees.

At GMS, we provide you with peace of mind in knowing your mobility program is fully compliant and being managed by the best in the industry.

Request a no-pressure, courtesy consultation from a GMS Mobility Pro. We’ll be in touch within 1 business day.

Categories
Corporate Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips Global Relocation Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs

Relocation Policy Benchmarking Delivers Results

As your company enters 2021, you should use relocation policy benchmarking to deliver much-needed results right from the start. The mobility industry strongly recommends that employers conduct a comparative policy review at an interval of 12 to 18 months. Waiting any longer to do this valuable exercise puts your company at great risk of losing significant ground to your industry competitors.

Do you think the relocation industry has not changed much in 12 months? Think again! The COVID-19 pandemic is still affecting all aspects of relocation. Whatever the issues are, a thorough relocation policy benchmarking will show you the solutions your company should implement.

Top 5 Results that Relocation Policy Benchmarking Delivers:

1. Increase Knowledge Across Your Organization

You must work with several internal stakeholders to implement successful relocations. All of these stakeholders should learn what is changing in the relocation industry. Cost issues, legal issues, and travel issues are still arising from the pandemic.

2. Examine Your Company’s Competitive Position Through Relocation Policy Benchmarking

How are your industry competitors using their relocation policies to attract and retain new hires and transferees? Relocation policy benchmarking provides clear information on how your industry peers leverage their relocation policies to succeed at talent acquisition and retention.

3. Adopt a Global Approach to Align Corporate Mobility Objectives

GMS has helped several companies avoid the pitfalls of decentralization. When companies take a decentralized approach to mobility, they end up with different policies and different experiences from location to location. Relocation policy benchmarking helps identify all of these differences. Recommendations to adopt the best solutions across the organization result in operational efficiencies, costs savings, and greater transferee satisfaction.

NOTE! View our Case Study on Decentralization. You will learn how we helped a large multinational client understand the benefits of a centralized approach for their relocation policies.

4. Innovative Solutions Solve Problems and Increase Efficiency

As fast as the world has changed over the past year, technology has changed at an even faster lightning speed. For example, conducting a relocation policy year end reconciliation can now be done in minutes with the touch of a few buttons. Relocation APIs such as those offered through GMS’ MyRelocation® Technology make managing your company’s relocation program a quick and easy process.

5. Save Costs with Relocation Policy Benchmarking

One of the biggest cost drivers for relocation policies are exceptions. By examining the best practices in your industry, your company can enhance your relocation policy to reduce these costly exceptions. Relocation policy benchmarking will identify cost issues and help your company institute solutions to keep costs and budgets in line.

What Should Employers Do?

Employers should initiate a relocation policy benchmarking with a qualified and knowledgeable Relocation Management Company (RMC). The project should include a full assessment of the company’s current relocation policy. It should also include a full review of corporate objectives and a complement of strategic recommendations.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand why they should initiate a relocation policy benchmarking. We can help your company understand how to create a relocation policy that reflects industry best practices, saves costs, and increases efficiency.

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.

Powered by GMS’ 2020 Mobility Benchmark, the innovative GMS Program/Policy Evaluation (PPE) Tool provides instant relocation policy reviews. It also helps users gain insight into how their company’s relocation program compares to their industry peers.

Schedule your relocation policy benchmarking now. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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.

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