Gone are the days when it was expected that an employee relocation would be the full responsibility of the employee. With a tighter labour market, it is beneficial for companies to retain high performing employees and move them between different locations when required. Employees also expect to a degree, that when moving between cities such as Auckland and Wellington, that their company will assist with the relocation process, and in many cases relocation support is included in the remuneration package.
We regularly work with companies who are relocating employees to Auckland or Wellington, providing short to medium term furnished accommodation. Which is why we’ve compiled and sharing a comprehensive checklist which can assist with the management of an employee relocation.
Checklist for Employee Relocation
A complex process with multiple moving parts, employee relocation is made easier when there are clear steps to follow:
· Budget – be sure to have a written budget as to how much the company will pay for the move, being clear about which costs over and above are the responsibility of the employee
· Timing and logistics – create a timeline of the relocation process, which involves setting date of move, coordination with movers, any remote working required by the employee and the arranging of any tradespeople needed to dismantle or setup equipment and appliances
· Key contacts – make sure all involved have a list of the key contacts available for support if required
· Packing – arrange delivery of boxes to the employee’s home for them to self-pack, or for the removal company to pack instead. Labelling is key at this stage, to ensure efficient delivery and unpacking in the new city
· Documentation – if the employee is relocating from overseas, be sure that any immigration and visa requirements are sorted well ahead of the moving date. Arrange signing of new contracts too
· Accommodation – rather than expecting the employee to arrange short term accommodation in their new city, organise a fully furnished apartment for them. This allows them time to get their bearings, decide in which suburb they want to live, and help them setting into their new role at work
· Travel arrangements – organise flights, hire cars or transport services for the employee and their partner/family
· Welcome onboarding – arrange a welcome pack for the employee which includes information about the new city, workplace, areas of interest and contact details
· Family support – if required, compile information about schooling, childcare, local family activities, partner employment support and other appropriate services
Using an employee relocation checklist helps to reduce the stress for all, ensuring the move is as straight forward for all. Remember that HiAtlas are here to help with providing corporate accommodation for newly arrived employees in Auckland and Wellington – we’d love to chat about how we can meet your requirements!