Employee relocation packages help companies attract and retain talent while supporting staff through the challenges of moving to London.
What’s Typically Included in London Relocation Packages
- Housing assistance and temporary accommodation
- Moving costs and shipping expenses
- Travel costs for house hunting trips
- Visa and immigration support
- Tax consultation services
- Cultural training and language courses
- School search assistance for employees with children
Housing Support Options
Most packages cover temporary housing for 30-90 days while employees search for permanent homes.
Housing allowances typically range from £2,000 to £4,000 per month depending on family size and position level.
| Housing Type | Average Monthly Cost (2023) |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom Flat | £1,800 – £2,500 |
| 2 Bedroom Flat | £2,500 – £3,500 |
| 3 Bedroom House | £3,500 – £5,000+ |
Moving Cost Coverage
Standard packages include shipping of household goods ranging from 20-40ft containers depending on family size.
- Air freight for essential items (250-500 lbs)
- Sea freight for bulk items
- Insurance coverage for goods in transit
- Storage costs for up to 90 days
- Packing and unpacking services
Tax and Financial Support
Companies often provide tax consultation services to help employees understand UK tax implications.
- Tax equalization programs
- Cost of living adjustments
- Banking setup assistance
- National Insurance registration help
Family Support Services
Employees relocating with families receive additional assistance for education and settling in.
- School search and enrollment assistance
- Spouse career support
- Childcare information
- Local community integration help
Recommended Relocation Service Providers in London
- Crown Relocations: +44 (0)20 8939 3000
- Santa Fe Relocation: +44 (0)208 963 2513
- Sterling Relocation: +44 (0)20 8841 7000
Tips for Negotiating Relocation Packages
- Research average London living costs before negotiations
- Request detailed breakdowns of covered expenses
- Consider asking for extended temporary housing if needed
- Discuss tax implications and support
- Ask about return relocation terms
Contact your HR department or relocation coordinator for specific details about your company’s relocation policy and available benefits.
Additional Relocation Package Considerations
Transportation Benefits
Many packages include transportation assistance to help employees navigate London’s transit system.
- Annual travel card allowance
- Company car or car allowance for senior positions
- Airport transfers upon arrival
- Temporary transportation stipend
Healthcare Coverage
Employers typically provide comprehensive health insurance coverage during the transition period.
- Private medical insurance
- NHS registration assistance
- Emergency medical coverage
- Mental health support services
Technology Setup
Remote work and home office setup assistance is increasingly common in relocation packages.
- Internet installation
- Mobile phone setup
- Home office equipment
- Technical support services
Conclusion
Comprehensive relocation packages are essential for successful employee transitions to London. Understanding available benefits and negotiating appropriate support can significantly impact the relocation experience. Regular review and adjustment of package components ensure they remain competitive and meet evolving employee needs.
Key Takeaways
- Customize packages based on individual and family requirements
- Ensure clear communication about coverage limits and duration
- Maintain flexibility for unexpected relocation challenges
- Review packages annually to stay competitive in the market
FAQs
- What typically gets included in a UK employee relocation package?
Standard relocation packages usually include moving costs, temporary accommodation, travel expenses, visa/immigration support, cultural training, home-finding assistance, and sometimes language courses or school search for children. - How much does a typical London relocation package cost employers?
Corporate relocation packages to London typically range from £8,000 to £30,000+ depending on factors like distance, family size, and level of support provided. - Is tax assistance provided in relocation packages to London?
Most comprehensive packages include tax consultation services to help employees understand UK tax implications and potential double taxation issues, especially for international relocations. - What housing support do relocation packages typically offer in London?
Common housing support includes temporary accommodation for 30-90 days, estate agent fees, lease negotiation assistance, and sometimes rental deposits or mortgage advice. - Are family support services included in relocation packages?
Yes, many packages include spouse career assistance, school search services, and cultural integration support for family members. - How long does the average corporate relocation to London take?
A typical corporate relocation to London takes 2-4 months from initiation to completion, depending on visa requirements and housing arrangements. - What storage solutions are typically covered in relocation packages?
Most packages cover temporary storage costs for 30-90 days if there’s a gap between moving dates, including collection, storage, and redelivery of possessions. - Do relocation packages cover transportation of vehicles to London?
While packages may cover vehicle transport costs, most companies discourage bringing vehicles to London due to high parking costs and excellent public transport options. - What immigration support is provided in relocation packages?
Packages typically include full visa sponsorship, application support, and legal assistance for both the employee and accompanying family members. - Are return relocation expenses covered if the assignment ends?
Many packages include repatriation costs if the assignment ends within a specified period, usually 2-5 years, though terms vary by company policy.