Relocating employees can be a time-consuming, costly, and confusing process. But it doesn’t have to be. Making use of a Relocation Service Provider has numerous advantages for your business. We asked our Director, Rene, for an overview of the reasons you should do so, and what to consider when looking for the best service provider for your needs.

What would you say are some of the downsides to a company deciding to manage relocating their employees in-house?

Companies could end up spending 80% of their time on 20% of their employees. Unless all those relocating are going to the same location, it’s difficult to build resources and have a bank of information about each location when not using experts in each of those locations. In contrast to Destination Service Providers, companies might not have capability to negotiate on behalf of their employees. Human Resources’ time could be better spent – potentially making the business more money and developing employees.

What are some advantages to using a Relocation Provider?

Focused knowledge, expertise, and support along the journey. There are also potential cost and time savings due to the reasons mentioned above.

What should I look for when choosing a provider?

Don’t only look at cost – it’s only one factor. A successful assignment has other elements to it. Consider compliance – whether the provider has all the necessary checks and balances, such as ISO 9001 and industry quality standards. An example is whether a provider has reached the audit requirements to gain the EuRA Global Quality Seal (EGQS). Also look into how long the provider has existed for, and judge whether they are likely to continue to be in existence when you need them a few years into the future.

Look into how they vet and recruit their people, as well as whether they have the required insurance. Get feedback from previous clients of theirs, and, if possible, perform a site visit to see if what they are saying about their presence in a location is accurate. Consider their alliances and memberships, such as with The International Relocation Associates (TIRA).

Finally, there is a big difference between a mover and Destination Service Provider (DSP), and there can be confusion in the industry. DSPs focus on people, not boxes. It is important to understand exactly what the provider does, and where its focus areas are and capabilities lie.

What should I do if I’m struggling to work with my current provider?

Ultimately you want to fix the problem. Partner appropriately – remember you are both trying to service the client (assignee) as best as possible. Focus on bringing things back from red to amber to green as soon as possible. Work together to solve the problem, rather than pointing fingers. Consider whether the problem is a first, or a repeating one, before considering moving to a new provider. Resolve the issue in the best interests of the assignee.

Is it best to go with a global company, or one that is located in and specializes in the area I’m interested in?

It is definitely better to use a regional provider – one located in the country the assignee/s will be moving to, as it is too broad for one global provider to have expert experience in every area. If, for example, you are moving employees into or around Africa, use a provider that has years of experience focused on that continent.

Any insights on industry trends happening right now?

One trend is the shift from longer-term programs to shorter-term programs. Another is finding ways to add value for assignees and clients by using available technology and data. There is a general trend of companies disproportionately placing price over value, quality of service, and compliance. This needs to be considered in terms of risk aversion, taking new legislation such as GDPR into account, as well as long-term success working with the provider, in order to enhance the true overall value of using an expert.

 

So there you have it. Using a trusted Relocation Provider can not only save you time and money, but help prevent unforeseen problems with relocating employees around the globe. With over 25 years of experience across the African continent, Relocation Africa would be happy to assist you with your mobility needs, and help you embrace the unknown.

 

Sources: [1]. Image sources: Kyle Glenn on Unsplash [1].

For information as to how Relocation Africa can help you with your Mobility, Immigration, Research, and Remuneration needs, email marketing@relocationafrica.com, or call us on +27 21 763 4240.