What Support Is Available When Relocating?
Moving home or relocating overseas can be an exciting opportunity, but it often comes with substantial costs. From removals and shipping to paperwork, visas, and temporary accommodation, expenses can add up quickly. Understanding what help with moving costs may be available and how to manage them effectively can make the entire relocation process far smoother.
This guide explains the types of financial support, allowances, and professional assistance available when moving, particularly for international relocations.
Jump to Section
- What Are Moving Costs?
- Employer Relocation Packages
- Tax-Efficient Relocation Benefits
- Assistance With Visas, Documentation and Customs
- Government and Public Sector Support
- Managing International Moving Costs
- FAQs About Help With Moving Costs
What Are Moving Costs?
Moving costs include far more than simply transporting belongings from one place to another. Typical expenses may include:
- Professional packing and packing materials
- UK, European, or overseas transportation
- Air, sea, or road freight charges
- Storage solutions (short-term or long-term)
- Insurance for household goods in transit
- Customs clearance, duties, and documentation
- Visa-related moves and compliance requirements
- Specialist services such as pet or vehicle relocation
Being aware of these costs early allows you to explore support options and avoid unexpected expenses later.
Employer Relocation Packages
Many people receive help with moving costs when relocating for work. Employer relocation packages vary depending on role, seniority, and destination, but may include:
- Full or partial coverage of removal and shipping costs
- Temporary accommodation on arrival
- Storage costs while housing is finalised
- Travel expenses for employees and dependants
- Support with visas, work permits, and compliance
It is always advisable to review relocation policies carefully and clarify which expenses are covered before committing to a move.
Tax-Efficient Relocation Benefits
In some cases, relocation benefits can be structured in a tax-efficient way, reducing the overall financial impact of moving.
Depending on the destination country’s tax rules and how an employer structures the relocation package, tax-efficient relocation benefits may include:
- Reimbursed removal and transportation costs
- Employer-paid shipping or storage costs
- Assistance with temporary accommodation
- Certain relocation expenses covered without being treated as taxable income
For international moves, employers may also offer tax equalisation or tax protection schemes to ensure employees are not financially disadvantaged by differences in tax systems abroad.
It is important to seek professional advice, as tax rules vary by country and personal circumstances.
Assistance With Visas, Documentation and Customs
One of the most complex and potentially costly aspects of an international move is ensuring all paperwork is correct.
Professional relocation and removals support can help with:
Visa and Immigration Support
- Guidance on required visas and permits
- Coordination with immigration specialists
- Support with timelines to avoid delays or penalties
Documentation
- Inventories required for customs clearance
- Shipping documentation for air and sea freight
- Country-specific compliance requirements
Customs Processes
- Advice on duty-free allowances for household goods
- Assistance with customs declarations
- Reducing the risk of delays, fines, or unexpected charges
Having expert support in place can prevent costly mistakes and ensure belongings move smoothly across borders.
Government and Public Sector Support
Certain public sector roles may offer relocation assistance, including:
- Armed forces personnel
- Healthcare and NHS workers
- Government employees on overseas postings
Support may come in the form of relocation allowances, reimbursed expenses, or employer-managed moves. Eligibility and coverage vary, so it’s important to confirm entitlements in advance.
Managing International Moving Costs
Even where direct financial help is limited, there are ways to reduce overall moving costs:
- Declutter before moving to reduce shipment volume
- Consider shared or groupage shipping options
- Plan well in advance to avoid premium charges
- Use professional advice to select the most efficient transport method
Careful planning and expert guidance can significantly reduce unnecessary expenditure.
FAQs About Help With Moving Costs
Get Expert Help with Purdie Worldwide
Whether you’re planning a move within the UK or relocating overseas, managing moving costs can be challenging. Purdie Worldwide offers professional support to make every stage of your relocation easier — from domestic removals and packing to storage, transport, and international logistics.
Our team can guide you through employer relocation packages, tax-efficient benefits, visa and customs processes, and everything in between. With expert advice and careful planning, you can reduce costs, avoid unexpected delays, and enjoy a smoother, stress-free move.
Trust Purdie Worldwide to handle your move efficiently, so you can focus on settling into your new home with confidence.
