Need Help With Job Relocation? Here’s Your Complete Timeline!
Are you thinking about relocating for a new job? You’re not alone! Domestic job relocations typically take up to three months to complete, while international moves need six months or longer.
Here’s the reality – job relocation isn’t as simple as packing up and moving. The actual moving process alone takes two to eight weeks. Plus, companies spend between $21,000 to $29,000 on average when relocating homeowner employees.
Want some good news? About 40% of employees successfully negotiate relocation support during their job offer stage. Whether you’re moving across the state or around the world, knowing what to expect and when to take action makes all the difference.
That’s why we’ve created this simple, step-by-step guide to help you through every phase of your relocation journey. From the moment you accept the offer to settling into your new home, we’ll show you exactly what you need to do and when you need to do it.
Let’s make your relocation journey smoother and stress-free!
AB FFHB Step 1 form
Your Job Relocation Timeline Made Simple!
Want to know how long your job relocation will take? Most employers give you 30 to 90 days to complete your move. Let’s break down what this means for you!
How Long Will Your Move Really Take?
Here’s what you need to know about relocation timelines:
- Local moves: 30 days to get settled
- Moving within the country: 60 days to complete everything
- International moves: 90 days or more for complex situations
Remember – domestic relocations usually take three months from start to finish. Moving internationally? You’ll need three to six months or more because of visas and settling arrangements.
What Makes Your Timeline Longer or Shorter?
Your timeline depends on several key factors:
- How far you’re moving
- Whether you need visas (this can really stretch things out!)
- Family considerations – schools, spouse’s job, finding the right house
- How much stuff you’re taking with you
Making Your Timeline Work For YOU!
Ready to make your move smoother? Here’s what works:
Start early! Give yourself at least six weeks for domestic moves and six months for international ones.
Need more time to find the perfect home? No problem! Many companies offer 30-90 days of temporary housing. This works great if your kids need to finish school or your spouse needs time to wrap up their job.
Here’s your quick action plan:
- Start organizing as soon as you sign your offer letter
- Book movers three weeks before moving day
- Talk to your employer if you need more time – most companies are flexible!
Remember, every move is different. Moving internationally or with family? Your employer will usually work with you to create a timeline that fits your needs.
Ready to Plan Your Move? Start 3-6 Months Before!
Are you wondering what to tackle first in your relocation journey? Let’s break down exactly what you need to do in these crucial early months!
Is This Job Offer RIGHT For You?
First things first – make sure this move helps your career grow! Here’s what to check:
- Will this role advance your career path?
- Does it offer a good salary bump? (experts say aim for 10-20% increase for relocation)
- Have you looked at the FULL benefits package?
Here’s something many people miss – since 2018, ALL relocation costs count as taxable income. Ask if your employer covers these tax costs. Many do!
Know Your New Home BEFORE You Move!
Did you know 75% of people report having move regrets? Don’t be one of them! Here’s what you NEED to research:
- Cost of living differences
- School quality and childcare options
- Getting around – transport and commute times
- Healthcare and essential services
- Community life and activities
Want our best tip? Visit your new location first! Nothing beats seeing the community yourself.
Your Moving Budget – No Surprises!
Let’s talk money! Companies typically spend between $21,000 to $29,000 relocating homeowner employees. But what should YOUR budget include?
Most employers help with:
- Finding your new home
- Temporary housing (you’ll need it!)
- Moving your belongings
- Help for your spouse’s job search
Don’t forget childcare costs during the move. And here’s a PRO TIP: Add 5% extra to your budget for unexpected expenses. Trust us – you’ll thank us later!
Remember, we’re here to help make your move easier. Need more advice? Just ask!
2-3 Months Before: Finding Your Perfect Home!
Need to find the right home in your new city? We know this is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Let’s make sure you get it right!
Smart House Hunting That WORKS
Don’t rush into housing decisions! Start with these MUST-CHECK items:
- How close is it to work?
- Is the neighborhood safe?
- Can you easily reach stores and services?
- Will your car have a good parking spot?
- Do you have enough storage space?
Want a smart tip? Try temporary housing first! It costs less than hotels and gives you time to explore. Just remember – check ALL paperwork before signing anything!
Moving With Kids? Here’s What Works!
Did you know younger kids usually handle moves better than teenagers? But here’s something to think about – children who move often are 77% more likely to have behavior issues.
Want to help your kids adjust better? Here’s a surprise – moving during school year works BETTER than summer! It helps kids make friends faster.
Here’s good news – 50% of companies offer help finding schools, but only 30% of employees use this service. Don’t miss out!
Take a week off when you arrive. You’ll need it to:
- Show kids around the neighborhood
- Visit their new school
- Meet their teachers
- Help them make friends
Getting Around Your New City
Where you live affects how you’ll spend EVERY day! We’ve seen how living near public transit makes moves easier.
Bringing your car? Check these first:
- Parking at your new home
- Traffic patterns (nobody likes surprise rush hours!)
- Public transit options
- Bike sharing programs
PRO TIP: Make sure grocery stores and medical centers are nearby – you’ll thank us after those long work days!
Need help planning your move? We’re here to make it easier! Fill out our form today.
1-2 Months Before: Let’s Get Packing!
Ready to start the actual moving process? Here’s how to turn potential chaos into a smooth transition!
Getting Your Belongings Organized
Want to stay super organized? Create a master moving binder – it’s your command center! Here’s what goes in it:
- Moving contracts and estimates
- All those important receipts
- Utility paperwork
- Records of donations
- Financial documents
Does your employer offer packing help? Great news! Work with them early to make things easier.
Here’s how to sort your stuff:
- Things to pack and move
- Items to donate (KEEP those receipts for taxes!)
- Valuable items you’ll move yourself
- Important papers needing special care
Finding the RIGHT Moving Company
Looking for a trustworthy mover? Here’s what they MUST have:
- Proper registration with local authorities
- Written estimates after home visits
- Full insurance coverage
- Clear pricing – no surprises!
- Good reviews from real customers
- Solid experience in the industry
PRO TIP: Get at least three written estimates. Check their insurance details before signing anything. For moves over CAD 69.67, make sure everything’s spelled out in the contract.
Setting Up Your New Home’s Utilities
Three weeks before moving day, let’s tackle utilities. Here’s your utility checklist:
- Power
- Water
- Gas
- Internet and TV
- Garbage pickup
Call each company to set up your services. Watch out – some might need credit checks or deposits. Most charge about CAD 17.28 plus GST to get started.
Stay organized! Create a simple spreadsheet with:
- Company phone numbers
- Your new account details
- When they’re coming to connect everything
Need some flexibility? Some services require in-person setup. If your dates don’t line up perfectly, consider temporary storage. Many moving companies can help with storage while you get everything connected.
Want help making your move smoother? Give us a call today!
2-4 Weeks Before: Your Final Moving Countdown!
Time to wrap up those last important details! Let’s make sure nothing gets missed in these crucial weeks.
Getting Your Paperwork Done RIGHT
First up – your Record of Employment (ROE). Here’s what you MUST know:
- Regular ROEs: Due within 5 calendar days after your last day
- Electronic monthly ROEs: 15 calendar days after work stops
Keep these essential documents together:
- Tax papers
- Work permits
- Health insurance forms
- Updated driver’s license
- All contract paperwork
PRO TIP: Check ALL signatures and stamps! Visa timing can change quickly, so stay in touch with everyone involved.
Making Your Goodbyes Count!
Want to leave a lasting impression? Your workplace relationships matter for future opportunities. Here’s how to say goodbye the RIGHT way:
Keep those connections strong:
- Trade email addresses
- Connect on professional networks
- Share your new contact details
When saying goodbye, get specific! Talk about real projects and memories instead of just saying “goodbye”. Every workplace has its own style – some love parties, others prefer quiet chats.
Remember to:
- Thank your mentors (they’ll remember it!)
- Keep your boss’s contact info
- Save those project success stories
- Share your new details
Your Last-Minute SUCCESS Checklist
Got kids or pets? Plan their care first – you’ll need focus time!
Here’s what MUST be done:
- Double-check moving day details
- Pack your “first day” bag
- Record those final meter readings
- Tell your bank and post office
- Keep important papers handy
Keep valuables and important papers with you during the move. Label EVERYTHING by room – you’ll thank yourself later!
Don’t forget your emergency kit with:
- Toiletries
- Medicines
- Basic supplies
One last thing – walk through EVERY room, check EVERY drawer and outlet. Nobody wants to drive back for forgotten items!
Need help making these final weeks smoother? We’re here to help – just give us a call!
Your First Month in Your New Home – Let’s Make it COUNT!
Did you know employees who actively settle into their new city are 50% more satisfied with their jobs? Let’s make sure you’re one of them!
Making Your New House Feel Like HOME
First things first – let’s get your space ready! Even if it looks clean, start fresh with a deep sanitization. Want to feel at home faster? Unpack those essential items first – it really helps reduce moving stress.
Here’s something people often forget – check ALL your safety devices:
- Put fresh batteries in smoke detectors
- Test carbon monoxide alarms
- Make sure gas detectors work
PRO TIP: Check your heating and cooling NOW, no matter the season. Trust us – you don’t want surprises later!
Starting Your New Job RIGHT!
Missing your old routine? That’s totally normal! Keep some familiar habits while you adjust to all the changes. Here’s what works – keep things simple for your first few months.
Focus on these key areas:
- Learning your new role (one step at a time!)
- Making friends at work
- Understanding how things work here
- Finding the best way to commute
Making Friends in Your New City
Feeling a bit lonely? You’re not alone! Even people who love their new jobs sometimes feel isolated. But here’s the good news – people who join local activities in their first month are 77% more likely to have a smooth transition!
Want to build your network? Professional groups are GOLD – even if you love your current job! Try to attend at least one networking event each month.
Looking for personal connections? Try these:
- Local coffee shops
- Parks and recreation areas
- Cultural events
- Community centers
Here’s a secret weapon – check out Meetup.com for groups that match YOUR interests!
Remember – don’t overdo it! Start slow with social commitments. Give yourself time to settle into both work and home life without getting overwhelmed.
Need more tips for settling in? We’re here to help – just reach out!
Ready For Your New Adventure? Let’s Wrap It Up!
Moving for a job changes your whole life – but guess what? With the right planning, you can make it happen smoothly!
Here’s what we’ve learned about successful relocations:
- Start early – give yourself 3 months for domestic moves
- Need to move internationally? Plan for 6 months or more
- Take it step by step – from planning to final arrangements
That first month in your new home? It’s your golden time for settling in! Focus on:
- Making your new space feel like home
- Getting comfortable at work
- Building your local friend circle
Want to make your relocation journey even smoother? We’re here to help! Fill out our form today and let’s get started on your next big adventure.
Remember – job relocation isn’t just about moving houses. It’s about opening doors to exciting new opportunities. Follow this timeline, stay organized, and you’ll be ready to write your next success story!
Need more relocation tips? Give us a call at (403) 879-7935. We’re always here to help make your move easier!
AB FFHB Step 1 form
FAQs
Q1. How long does a typical job relocation process take?
A typical domestic job relocation usually takes about three months from offer acceptance to the actual move. For international relocations, the process can extend to six months or longer due to additional complexities like visa requirements.
Q2. What should I consider when evaluating a job relocation offer?
When evaluating a job relocation offer, consider career growth opportunities, compensation package (aim for a 10-20% salary increase), benefits, tax implications, cost of living in the new location, and the overall impact on your family. It’s also important to research the new area thoroughly, including schools, healthcare, and lifestyle factors.
Q3. How can I effectively plan for housing during relocation?
Start your housing search 2-3 months before the move. Consider factors like proximity to work, neighborhood safety, and access to essential services. Many companies offer temporary housing for 30-90 days, which can provide flexibility while you search for a permanent home. Don’t rush into decisions and consider using a reliable housing provider to streamline your search.
Q4. What are some key steps in preparing for the actual move?
Key steps include organizing your belongings (sort items to pack, donate, or transport personally), hiring a reputable moving company (get at least three written estimates), and setting up utilities in your new home. Create a master moving binder to keep all important documents organized, and prepare an essentials bag for immediate necessities upon arrival.
Q5. How can I adjust successfully in the first month after relocation?
In the first month, focus on setting up your new home, starting your new job, and building local connections. Prioritize unpacking essentials and creating a comfortable living space. At work, concentrate on learning your role and establishing relationships. Join local professional groups and community activities to build a new network. Remember to maintain a balance and give yourself time to adjust to your new environment.