JUNE 2001 Issue - Everyone knows what a hassle moving can be, whether it's in Asia, Europe or the United States. Moving for a job creates an additional set of concerns about housing, work visas, cost of living, and education, among others. Relocation does not need to be intimidating if those making the move carefully plan each step of the process.

"The number one thing people should do is have a good organizational checklist and timeline for all the details that come into play," says Shelley Seale, president of RPS Relocation (Arlington, TX), which assists companies and individuals in relocation. One of these major details is how the company plans to help with the move - particularly with the housing aspect. "[Employees] definitely need to find out what type of relocation benefits their new employer might offer," Seale says. Some questions to ask include:

• Will the company pay for a house-hunting trip and/or temporary housing in the new destination?
• Will it pay for any assistance in selling the current house?
• Will it help cover the cost of moving household goods?
• Will it offer a move-in bonus to cover incidentals?

Though employers can offer some assistance with housing, transferees likely will be responsible for selling their home. They also should be prepared to manage the timing of the sale and closing of one home, make the purchase of another, and complete the related address change.

Variation in cost of living is an important consideration. If someone relocates from Kansas City to Silicon Valley, his or her salary won't have the same buying power, Seale says. "The person is going to want to find out what the salary difference is going to account for." Variation in international exchange rates and taxes also can affect ultimate compensation.

Researching your new location is a major part of the relocation process. Call the city's chamber of commerce or obtain a copy of a local lifestyle magazine. Buy a map and copies of the local newspapers while you're in town for your interview to use as reference information for house hunting. Contact the police department to find out about high crime areas to avoid. Borrowing a copy of the local yellow pages also will be helpful when it comes to contacting real estate agents and utility companies. Gather information on schools - elementary, secondary, even graduate level. RPS's website, www.rpsrelocation.com, and www.monstermoving.com offer information and links for researching various places.

On average, it takes about six months for people to start feeling at home in their new environment. "People tend to get discouraged or stressed when it seems to take longer than they think it will," Seale says. For those contemplating an international move, the relocation details can be far more complex. Look for more on this subject in an upcoming Career Focus section.