Tag: Pet Move

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Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips Household Goods Relocation Challenges

Pet Relocation from the Pet’s Perspective

A happy yellow lab dog sitting on a sidewalk.

Pet relocation needs are often considered after an employee has accepted a position. If your company has new hires and transferees who are planning to relocate along with their pets, there are many points to consider. For example, housing at the new destination, household goods move logistics, and transportation options should be top of mind. Has the employee thought about their pets? Could pet relocation be as simple as opening their car door? Why not let their pet jump in the back seat as they ponder a long drive?

From a pet’s perspective, relocation may be fraught with confusion. Certainly costs may be involved, and there may be specific veterinary requirements such as current vaccinations. Before employees start making decisions, it is important to know the specific requirements their pet must meet, and what they may experience during a pet relocation.

Health and Vaccinations for a Pet Relocation

Many states require that pets have proof of current rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinarian. For example, the state of Florida maintains this requirement for dogs and cats 3 months of age and older. However, other states may require an official certificate of health. Requirements across states vary, and should be investigated prior to the pet relocation.

The United States Animal Health Association (USAHA) publishes a list of each states animal health officials. Additionally, USAHA publishes a list of sovereign territorial animal health agency members for the Navajo Nation and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands. It is important to contact the appropriate state agency at the destination. You should verify the most recent requirements for pets moving to the new location.

After the Veterinarian Visit, What is Next on the “to do List” for a Pet Relocation?

Once the employee’s pet stops giving them guilt-inducing looks following the most recent visit to the veterinarian, the actual logistics should be considered. What is the best option to get the pet from their current home to their new home? There are a multitude of choices, each with its own advantages.

Automobile

What could be easier than a nice drive with a pet? Consider how long the drive will be. Is it an hour, or is it several days? An hour, or even a few hours, might be easily doable for the employee and their pet. From a pet’s perspective, this might be their optimal choice for their pet relocation.

Now imagine yourself in the back seat of your car for several days. Would you feel comfortable and happy? Remember traveling for a day or two (or more) will also require stops at night. Hotels may accepts pets, and may charge extra for this convenience. Safety is also an important consideration. Each transition into and out of the car may provide an opportunity for a missed leash or a losing grip. Groggy pets might be susceptible to a fall as they exit the car. As a result, a pet may not prefer long trips in the back seat of their owner’s car.

Air Travel by Carry-on Luggage versus Cargo

Pets that can travel by air in carry-on luggage must be small enough to fit beneath the seat. Cats, small dogs, a rabbit, and similar small pets may be able to travel this way. Service animals and emotional support animals generally do not need to meet these requirements. For pets that meet these requirements, this might be a favorable choice. They get to be near their owner, and are protected in their carrier during the travel experience.

Airline travel has changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Travelers should look into various airline policies regarding pets, service animals, and emotional support animals. Online resources such as Guide to Flying with an Emotional Support Animal may provide helpful information.

Air travel by cargo may be the only option if the pet is large. While the vast majority of pets that travel by cargo do well, some issues give owners pause for concern. The U.S. Department of Transportation publishes a monthly report to assist consumers with information on the quality of services provided by airlines. According to the June 2020 report, there was one report related to pet relocation. Recently many airlines have suspended the option for pets to fly in cargo. From a pet’s perspective, this type of travel may be more challenging. Since they will not be in sight of their owner, they may not feel happy and secure.

Rail Travel on Amtrak

Amtrak allows pets to travel by rail provided they meet certain guidelines:

  • Up to 20 pounds (pet and carrier)
  • Trips no longer than 7 hours
  • Signed pet release and indemnification
  • Pet must be at least 8 weeks old, odorless, harmless, and not disruptive

Notably, pets must travel with a human. Amtrak does not ship pets, or allow them to travel as a checked bag. With their owner along for the ride, travel by rail might be a surprisingly easy and pleasant option. The built-in limitation for 7 hour trips might benefit both the employee and their pet by providing scenic stops along the journey. Pets that meet the requirements may find this to be a favorable option.

Specialized Pet Transport

The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association is an organization of professional pet shippers. With members located in more than 80 countries, IPATA pet shippers work together to provide safe and secure pet relocation. There are specific requirements that must be met, such as vaccinations and health certificates. If the employee’s timing is critical and they are not able to bring their pet through air travel, IPATA may provide an option to meet their needs. From a pet’s perspective, if they can’t travel with their owner, then traveling through a professional service might be a viable option.

International Pet Relocation Health, Vaccinations, and Possible Quarantine Requirements

The United States Department of Agriculture Division of Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service notes there may be health requirements specific for international destinations. These requirements may include obtaining a health certificate, updating vaccinations, requisite diagnostic testing, or administration of medications.

The international relocation may require quarantine time for the pet. For example, pet relocation from the United States to Taiwan requires the importer to “…apply for an import permit and make a reservation of the post-entry quarantine space from animal quarantine authority at the port of entry.” Also, “When conducting the quarantine inspection, BAPHIQ (animal quarantine authority) will check the veterinary certificate and detain the dog or cat at the designated post-entry quarantine location for 7 days. During quarantine detention, the blood of the dog or cat will be sampled and tested again for rabies antibody.” Ultimately, pets that may need to undergo quarantine are bound to not be the happiest tail-waggers. However, when they are reunited with their owners, their happiness may increase. Especially if the owner shares big hugs and some delicious pet treats.

What Does This Mean?

It is important for new hires and transferees to understand issues related to pet relocation. Employers should be sure to extend the same level of service to pets as they would to human members of the relocating employee’s family. They should also ensure safe animal transportation options are available.

Employers should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide guidance for safe and reliable pet relocation. RMCs can help clients and transferees understand how to arrange for the best pet relocation options.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to help their new hires and relocating employees with pet relocation. We can help your company utilize pre-decision services to identify needs and requirements to ensure a smooth relocation process for the employee, their family members, and their pets.

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. As a result, GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation® technology platform.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in learning about pet relocation solutions, 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.

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Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges Global Relocation Global Relocation Challenges

Animal Transportation During the COVID-19 Pandemic

young couple in their new home playing with dogs, while unpacking
Young Asian couple or family feeling happy relaxing and play with their cat after moving to new house or apartment.

With the majority of US households containing at least one pet, the issue of animal transportation is an important consideration. The American Pet Products Association (APPA) reports that 67% of US households own a pet. The variety and number of pets in the US provides an indication of the complexity of transport logistics and decisions:

Pet # of Households (millions)
Dog 63.4
Cat 42.7
Freshwater Fish 11.5
Bird 5.7
Small Animal 5.4
Reptile 4.5
Saltwater Fish 1.6
Horse 1.6

Source: American Pet Products Association

Pets and COVID-19

Pet owners face unique challenges when it comes to the COVID-19 Pandemic and animal transportation. They must address social isolation, sanitation, and safety concerns for themselves as it pertains to their specific area circumstance. Also, they must address the same parameters for their pet. APPA has identified several products that are ideally suited to dealing with social isolation for pet owners and their pets. Unique ideas include pet grooming kits for home use, a motorized ribbon toy to keep cats active, puzzles made specifically for dogs to play with, and a dog treadmill.

Some evidence suggests that pets may become infected from close contact with humans who are ill with COVID-19. However, according to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Shelter Medicine Program in their publication Animal Services’ Role in COVID-19 Support, “There is no current evidence to suggest that pets play a role in the spread of this human disease.”

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pet owners treat pets as they would treat other human family members:

  • Do not let pets interact with people or animals outside the household
  • If someone in the household becomes sick, isolate that person from everyone else, including pets

COVID-19 May Impact Animal Transportation

Clients with new hires or transferring employees should be aware of any issues related to pet ownership as it may relate to a possible relocation. Pre-decision services help clients learn what the employee will be facing as it relates to a move that will include a pet. If a new hire or transferee is a pet owner, COVID-19 issues may impact animal transportation and directly affect the relocation process.

What May be Necessary for Animal Transportation During COVID-19?

Animal transportation must receive the same consideration as human transportation. The UW Shelter Medicine Program’s publication notes that “Every exception to social distancing decreases its efficacy.” Therefore, routine travel outside of a community for pets should be discontinued, the same as for human travel.

Relocation and moving are an essential service during COVID-19. For pet owners, consideration should be given to points during animal transportation such as:

  • Social distancing during the pet move
  • Limiting moving company employee exposure to the pet during the process
  • Following local regulations that are part of “safe at home” and “stay at home” orders
  • Careful observation of the pet for signs of illness

The CDC notes that the situation is evolving, and information will be updated as it becomes available. However, as noted previously, pet owners should provide the same level of care and consideration for their pets as they do other human family members. CDC Guidelines on Prevention therefore apply to both humans and pets, and include:

  • Frequent handwashing before and after interactions with pets
  • Avoiding close contact with other animals and people
  • Covering your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover if in close contact with others
  • Cover coughs and sneezes around humans and pets
  • Cleanliness and disinfection throughout living spaces
  • Health monitoring for pets

Many pet owners already consider their pets as members of the family, and take as good care of their pets as they do themselves. As a result, pet owners would likely exercise diligence related to COVID-19 prevention for their pets as well.

What Should Employers do About Animal Transportation During COVID-19?

It is important for employers with relocating employees to know and understand how to address issues related to animal transportation during COVID-19. Employers should extend the same level of service to pets as they would to human members of the relocating employee’s family. They should also ensure safe animal transportation options are available.

Employers should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide guidance for a pet move and animal transportation during COVID-19.  RMCs can help clients and transferees understand how to arrange for the best animal transportation options and determine how to comply with pet shipping requirements such as health certificates and other issues.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to help their new hires and relocating employees with pets arrange for animal transportation. Our team can help your company understand the issues involved with animal transportation during COVID-19. We can help your company utilize pre-decision services to identify needs and requirements to ensure a smooth relocation process for the employee, their family members, and their pets.

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.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in learning about animal transportation solutions during COVID-19, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Talent Management Talent Mobility

Special Needs Relocation Services: A Compassionate Approach

Handicapped manbeing helped during the employee relocation process

Many GMS clients have transferees who require special needs relocation services. Sometimes the need is for a family member who will be relocating with the transferee. Other times, the need is for the transferee. Pre-decision services help employers identify specific points so they can provide the appropriate resources and solutions. Often these solutions require a compassionate approach, to help the transferee and their family members have peace of mind for the relocation.

GMS spoke with Ann Hinch, International Destination Service Manager at Go Destination Services who agreed to share her knowledge and expertise on this topic.

Three Situations that Require Special Needs Relocation Services

Relocating a transferee often requires attention to the needs of their immediate family members as well. In some cases, there may be special needs relocation services. According to Ann, there are three types of situations requiring a compassionate approach:

  • Providing information and options for elder care
  • Education options for children with special needs
  • Home-finding for transferees moving with an assistance animal

Elder Care

A Pew Research Center survey in 2018 found that 14 percent of older adults living in someone else’s household were the parents of the head(s) of that household, up from just 7 percent in 1995. Transferees moving with an aging parent may ask for special attention to the type of accommodations in the home they will need to rent or purchase. They may want to know about elder care services in their destination city, including:

  • Senior centers
  • Medical resources
  • Home health care
  • Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, offices, care homes

Options Available

If a transferee is seeking separate housing for an elderly or special-needs adult family member, there are a number of options available, depending on the destination area’s resources. Nursing homes provide an intensive level of medical and personal care around the clock. However, assisted living communities allow residents more of a measure of independence. Independent-living communities are geared for those who can take care of themselves but may require meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, or transportation services.

Ann notes that it is recommended that those caring for elder and special-needs family members research and visit these specialized facilities ahead of placement. Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare aggregates care quality data for every Medicare- and Medicaid-certified nursing home in the United States. Nursing Home Inspect, run by independent journalism site ProPublica, uses data from the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The site provides an unbiased database of nursing homes across the country.

Children with Special Needs Relocation Services

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics, in May 2019 14 percent of students under age 21 in U.S. public schools received special education services. Connecting families with districts that serve special-needs children may start with a state’s Department of Education website. Alternatively, it may begin with calling the office for that agency to learn about special-needs schools and programs in the destination city.

Ann believes that another valuable lead is social media. For instance, a parent can join and follow a Facebook group for a school they have an interest in. This way, they can see what other families have to say about the special-needs programs and learning environment.

Research Tools

There are non-government online research tools valuable for helping narrow the field of learning institutions to contact in a given region. Two such tools are Public School Review and Private School Review. Both offer a categorical search of many fields of requirement, including special-needs education. Each school includes data such as rankings, opportunity for comments by parents, contact information, tuition, and much more. Another helpful research tool is Niche.

According to Ann, GO’s best resource for local schools and other special needs relocation services program information is their database of talented area consultants in destination cities. GO’s in-house research team also frequently supplements the area consultants’ efforts. Ann shared that sometimes GO is asked to provide research that affects a relocation decision. For example, a recent request came from a couple who were considering relocating from China to New Jersey. Their son had special needs, and GO was tasked by the father’s employer to compile a list of public and private schools with relevant programming. This research greatly aided the family in deciding to accept the employer’s relocation offer to the U.S.

Assistance Animals

Since domesticating dogs thousands of years ago, humans have valued them and many other animals for companionship and protection. Some domesticated animals have special training to provide service or assistance. This could include helping someone who has limited vision, or monitoring and alerting someone to the onset of seizures.

In Ann’s research, she has found that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development defines an assistance animal as one that “works, provides assistance, or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or that provides emotional support that alleviates one or more identified effects of a person’s disability.” Assistance animals are not classified as pets when it comes to seeking most types of rental housing, though there are some exemptions for single-family homes rented without an agent and owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units. Also, breed and weight restrictions do not apply.

Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act requires housing providers to allow reasonable accommodation for assistance animals if the request to have the animal is supported by reliable documentation for the disability and meets other requirements – such as that having the animal would not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others, or would not result in significant physical damage to property. “Reasonable accommodation” also means providers must waive pet fees, though a pet deposit may still apply.

In booking a hotel or temporary accommodations for a transferee with a service dog, the Americans with Disabilities Act states any such person must be provided the same opportunity to reserve any room as other guests. It is important to note for purposes of the ADA that “service dogs” and “assistance animals” are separate categories. Therefore, it is a good idea to consult a hotel or other public accommodation ahead of arrival. Be sure to inquire about documentation for any animal that is not a service dog.

What Should Employers Do About Special Needs Relocation Services?

Employers should leverage pre-decision services to help identify any special needs relocation services their transferee may need. A Relocation Management Company (RMC) with knowledge and experience will help employers understand how to provide a compassionate approach to address specific transferee needs. As a result, transferees and their family members will have peace of mind. Their relocation process will also be smooth and successful.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to identify if transferees require any special needs relocation services through our robust pre-decision services. As a result, our team can help your company understand how to identify specific points of concern. In turn, this will help your company provide the appropriate resources and 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.

Contact our experts online to learn more about special needs relocation services, 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.

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Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges Domestic Relocation Tips Domestic Relocation Trends Home Purchase Household Goods Relocation Best Practices Relocation Challenges Relocation Management Talent Mobility

Summer Move on Tap? Start Planning Now

African descent family moving into a new home. Mother, father and daughter. Real estate sign. Home in background. Spring or summer season.

Many relocating employees choose a summer move over any other time of the year. However, several factors make this time of the year the busiest for relocation. As a result, the household goods (HHG) moving industry is often running at nearly full capacity to meet demanding schedules.

The current COVID-19 pandemic presents a significant number of additional considerations. However, transferees who plan ahead and learn basic guidelines for safe HHG moves can expect a smooth summer move.

Factors That Result in Preferences for a Summer Move

1. School Breaks

Families with children prefer to stay in place during the school year. The vast majority of school years follow certain patterns, with holiday or seasonal breaks. The months of June, July, and August are traditionally times when schools are not in session. This includes colleges as well, where students are often on the move back home once they have taken their last final exam. By planning a summer move, schoolwork is less likely to face any disruptions.

2. Weather Patterns

In much of the United States, the months of May through September offer warm temperatures, grounds covered with grass, and a number of bright sunny days. In comparison, other months offer less than ideal weather conditions. Snow and ice make travel difficult, streets and sidewalks may be muddy, and days may be gray with sleet and snow showers.

3. Common Beliefs and Practices

Many home buyers and sellers believe the best seasons for real estate transactions are spring and summer. Although other seasons offer a number of benefits, a summer move is often the result of a busy spring and summer home buying and selling season.

How to Plan Ahead for Your Summer Move

Companies that are planning to relocate employees should be aware of several important points that can make for a smooth and easy summer move. Communication is important to ensure that every relocating employee has a good experience. Employees who have a good experience in their relocation process will arrive at the destination ready to start their new job.

Top 4 Points to Ensure a Smooth Summer Move

1. Engage your Relocation Management Company (RMC) as Early as Possible

Employers looking to arrange an employee transfer or a new hire that will be relocating, early notification to the RMC is best. A best practice is to integrate all of the company’s pre-decision services directly with the RMC. This will help ensure the RMC has visibility for any upcoming summer move, and initial planning can quickly proceed.

2. Leverage Multiple Bids to Obtain the Lowest Costs

With HHG moving demand at its peak, RMCs should provide multiple bids for a summer move. However, this requires companies to provide enough time for the RMC to obtain these bids. The last week of June is the busiest week for moves. Companies that do not provide enough time for the RMC to obtain competitive bids may miss out on substantially lower costs for the summer move. In general, RMCs who obtain multiple bids for a summer move can save companies over $1,500 per move.

3. Providing a Range of Dates is Better Than a Specific Date

As with many things in life, the ability to be flexible works well for planning a summer move. HHG moving companies appreciate flexibility for their scheduling needs. Transferees also have many other things to take care of related to their relocation. Relocating employees who can provide a range of dates for pickup and delivery are often likely to have their household goods picked up and delivered on their preferred date or the nearest alternative date.

4. When Time is of the Essence, Services Can be Provided at Additional Cost

Some situations require an employee to be on site in a new location by a specific date. Critical delivery dates may arise due to home sale closings, expiring leases, and company requirements. These situations may require services that cost extra, above and beyond the traditional summer move cost. Companies that need a transferee to be on site in a new location by a certain date should provide enough time for the employee to make the move.

NOTE: Transferees that are given very short notice for a summer move often face significant issues in terms of cost to move and space for their household goods on moving company vans and trucks. Late requests for space may result in a moving company providing space but only for a specific size such as 10,000 pounds of goods. As a result, transferees with 2,500 pounds of household goods may have no other option but to pay for the extra unused space in order to meet the deadline set by their company. Best practice is to provide a quote that covers only the space needed for the transferee’s household goods. This way, they transferee is not paying extra for space they cannot use.

What Should Employers do About a Summer Move?

Employers should contact their RMC as early in the relocation process as possible. Best practice is to work with the RMC for pre-decision services. To ensure this engagement starts as early as possible, employers should create an Application Programming Interface, or relocation API.

An API provides a framework for different computer systems to communicate and share information. Employers with a relocation API will have their internal Human Resource Information System (HRIS) integrated with their RMC’s relocation technology. RMCs with industry-leading relocation technology solutions have designed their platforms to quickly and easily integrate with each client’s HRIS.

Employers should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide guidance and insight as to best practices for obtaining multiple bids and arranging for a summer move. RMCs can help clients and transferees understand how to communicate important dates and other information relating to their summer move with HHG moving companies.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to leverage the multiple bid process to save on a summer move. Our team can help your company follow industry best practices to communicate early, incorporate flexibility, and understand all of the various options that are available for relocating employees facing a summer move.

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.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in learning best practices relating to arranging a summer move for your relocating employees, 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
Domestic Relocation Challenges Domestic Relocation Tips Household Goods Relocation Challenges

Ensuring a Safe Household Goods Move During COVID-19

The young Family is enjoying their new Home

If you need to schedule a household goods (HHG) move during COVID-19, you are not alone. Millions of people move every year, and the month of May is often the start of the busy moving season. In fact, May is “National Moving Month,” and the month of June is usually the busiest month for people who want to move. People who have sold their home, purchased a new one, or are moving into a new apartment during this time may not know how the current pandemic will impact their plans.

The American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) has issued guidance for consumers to ensure safety for all involved in the moving process. Moving companies such as North American Moving Services have issued specific COVID-19 Business Continuity Plans to help everyone to remain safe during this global pandemic.

AMSA Guidance for Consumers who Move During COVID-19

For consumers who will move during COVID-19, the following guidance provides clear direction. It also includes easy steps to take to ensure everyone’s safety throughout the entire process.

  • Communication is important for everyone
    • If anyone in your home is isolating or under quarantine, call immediately to reschedule
  • Avoid the natural tendency to shake hands when you greet the moving team
    • Smile, greet warmly, and then give proper social distancing
  • Provide direct access to sinks, water, soap, paper towels, hand sanitizer, and trash bins
    • Moving teams should have additional supplies if needed
  • Always use fresh supplies of packing materials
    • Rolls of tape, packing papers, shipping and storage boxes, and any other supplies

What Does This Mean for Your Move During COVID-19?

Many GMS clients have employees, new hires, and transferees in various stages of their HHG move during COVID-19. These services are often considered essential, and people may have no other choice but to proceed with their scheduled move.

We Can Get Through This!

GMS knows this is a difficult time for everyone. However, we can and we will all get through this together. We need to focus on doing the right thing every time. Following AMSA guidance to ensure a safe HHG move during COVID-19 will provide peace of mind for the moving team and those who are moving.

What Should Employers do for Employees who Move During COVID-19?

Employers should share as much information with their employees, new hires, and transferees about how they can arrange a safe move during COVID-19 as possible. The AMSA guidance for arranging a safe move should be shared, along with any other information that may be helpful such as how they can create a video survey for their household goods prior to the move.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to share helpful information with employees, new hires, and transferees on their HHG moving process. Our team can help your company understand how to incorporate the AMSA guidance on arranging a safe HHG move during COVID-19 into your relocation program.

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.

Contact our experts online to learn more about how your company can communicate the AMSA guidance on arranging a safe HHG move during COVID-19, 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
Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Challenges Domestic Relocation Tips Domestic Relocation Trends Household Goods

What Should You Know About a Pet Move?

With 68% of American households owning a pet, chances are high that a relocating employee will include a pet move. There are many benefits to owning a pet. According to Animal Planet, some health benefits to owning a pet include:

  • Enhanced social skills
  • Less likelihood for children to develop related allergies
  • Decreased risk of heart attack and lower blood pressure
  • Healthier lifestyle from taking care of pets (walking dogs)
  • Increased companionship improves overall state of mind

What is a Pet?

A pet can be almost any kind of domesticated animal that is kept for companionship or pleasure, and may require a pet move, including:

Service Animals

Pets are distinct from Service Animals. Service Animals, according to the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations as published by the Department of Justice, are defined as any dog that is trained to do work or perform tasks that benefit an individual who has a disability.

Emotional Support Animals

Pets are also distinct from Emotional Support Animals, Therapy Animals, or Comfort Animals. These types of animals may be used as part of a medical treatment plan to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and phobias.

Points to Consider on a Pet Move

There may be times when a relocating employee must arrange for a pet move. This can be due to timing issues related to work travel or other business needs. A number of solutions are available depending on what is required. However, it is important to investigate the options as soon as possible and understand everything that is required in order to arrange the transport. With enough notice, a range of solutions may be available that provide the best option for a pet’s care and well-being during a pet move. It may also help relocating employees to look into training for their pets that might be traveling with them.

Ground Transport Points to Consider on a Pet Move

Shared Ride or Private Transportation

Ground transport for a pet move usually includes pickup at origin and delivery to destination. Usually, animal transportation services require a minimum of 4-6 week notice. Also, ground transport may be in a share-ride format, where pets are in transport with other pets. Should an employee’s pet not interact well with other pets, this may cause stress for the animal. Costs may be higher for private transportation.

Health Certificates and Microchips

Most ground transport firms require some form of interstate health certificate, verification of appropriate vaccinations, and other documentation to ensure the animal is in good health. Veterinarians should microchip all animals for identification. Some ground transport firms will send a complimentary microchip to the relocating employee’s veterinarian to implant during the examination needed for the health certificate. The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association has a number of helpful resources to review for a pet move. Many pet owners also choose to invest in pet insurance to cover the rising costs of veterinary care.

Air Transport Points to Consider on a Pet Move

Temperature Issues

While air transport may be available, it may be highly dependent on temperatures. Some airlines do not have temperature-controlled vehicles to take pets to and from the cargo hold on the aircraft.

Restrictions on Cargo Transport

Also, each airline has its own restrictions on whether pets can be transported in cargo. Costs are variable, as are space and type of transport. Some airlines have restrictions on the breeds of dog they will accept for cargo transport. Health certificates and vaccination records are usually required, and some airlines require the use of a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or International Air Transport Association (IATA) approved kennel. Even the size of a kennel may be an issue; some airlines will not accept large kennels, so air transport for larger animals may not be possible.

What Should Employers do About a Pet Move?

It is important for employers with relocating employees to know and understand issues relating to the concept of pets, Service Animals, and any other designations such as Therapy Animals, as they relate to the transferee. Relocating Employees with Service Animals may not be able to travel alone, so the relocation process must take the Service Animal into account.

Similarly, for all pets and non-Service Animals, employers should exercise care and concern on behalf of the relocating employee for these animals. Transferees and their family members usually consider pets and Comfort or Therapy Animals as a member of their family. Employers should extend the same level of service to these animals as they would to any other member of the relocating employee’s family. They should ensure safe transportation options are available, and consider all issues including health certificates.

Employers should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide guidance for a pet move.  RMCs can help clients and transferees understand how to arrange for the best pet move transportation options and determine how to comply with pet shipping requirements for health certificates and other issues.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to help transferees arrange for safe and secure transportation for a pet move. Our team can help your company understand the issues involved with a pet move, and use appropriate pre-decision services to identify needs and requirements to ensure a smooth relocation process for the transferee and their pet.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com, 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.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in learning about solutions for a pet move, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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15333 N. Pima Road
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About

Contact Us

About Us

GMS Client Login

Privacy Policy

Other Services

Our Technology

Global Relocation

Group Moves

U.S. & Canadian Relocation

Address

Global Mobility Solutions
15333 N. Pima Road
Scottsdale AZ, 85260

1.800.617.1904
Available 24/7/365

About

Contact Us

About Us

GMS Client Login

Privacy Policy

Address

Global Mobility Solutions
15333 N. Pima Road
Scottsdale AZ, 85260

1.800.617.1904
Available 24/7/365

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