Transporting furniture and household goods is one of the biggest expenses when relocating employees. Storing, packing, shipping and unloading furniture can be expensive, especially if workers are relocating a long distance.
This is why some companies are choosing the option of relocation furniture hire – a reliable and potentially more cost-effective solution. Furniture rental can certainly help to make the process easier for everyone involved in the move.
© XArtProduction / Shutterstock
It can be particularly useful for short-term relocation, especially when compared with buying furniture for that purpose.
How many employees relocate?
Employees in the UK are happy to relocate for their job, according to a poll of 1,000 office workers carried out by Moneypenny in 2022.
More than one-third (35%) responded they had already relocated for work and were willing to do so again, while 24% said they had never relocated so far, but wouldn’t mind if they did.
When asked if they would move to another city in a faraway different region, 53% wouldn’t have a problem with this. Only one-fifth of respondents said they wouldn’t really feel happy about moving.
In terms of demographics, the age group most open to a move comprises 35 to 44-year-olds. On average, employees said they would be prepared to relocate around 250 miles from their current location, although 16% were willing to travel more than 1,000 miles.
Respondents said they would love to move from the city to a more rural area if their company would allow flexible or remote working.
The research suggests relocating for their job is something a lot of UK workers will consider – so what’s the best way of making the move as smooth as possible?
Benefits of relocation furniture hire
If you’re a relocation agency organising moves for hundreds of people, the logistics involved can be mind boggling. For companies and organisations that offer staff relocation services, providing a furnished short-term rental can be a great option.
It saves the hassle of finding and furnishing long-term housing for employees, while also providing further benefits, such as cost savings and flexibility. You can harness the benefits to get the most out of short-term furniture rental for employee relocation.
In terms of the employees who are moving to a new city, the last thing they want is for their furniture to be delayed – or even worse, for items to be damaged or lost in transit. Workers trying to adjust to new surroundings may prefer to move straight into a furnished property. This can be more affordable for companies and will make sure their workers arrive at their new home safe in the knowledge it’s already established and functional.
Before going ahead, businesses should consider the options and liaise with their relocation company to ensure they are taking the best course of action. There are a few questions that should be discussed to achieve the optimum solution.
How long is the assignment?
Employees who are being relocated for a short-term assignment may prefer to live in furnished rented housing for the duration, instead of having to pack up and move all their belongings.
This is the preferred option for homeowners going on short-term assignments, as they will be able to return to their previous residence afterwards. For longer-term assignments or permanent moves, shipping employee belongings will probably be necessary.
How far away is the new job?
In the case of long distance relocations, companies may discuss with employees whether they want to store their own furniture and live in a corporate home with rental furniture, or whether they would prefer to ship all their own belongings to their new place.
Some might prefer having familiar items around them in their new location, while others might prefer a fresh start without shipping worries. Those arriving at a furnished home may feel less stressed if it’s already up and running when they arrive.
Are employees relocating with their family?
Rental furniture can be convenient for employees who are either single or moving with their family. For a single person with no ties, furniture rental can be an advantage if they’re making a fresh start.
Some parents may think it’s preferable to ship their own furniture from their previous home so the children will be in familiar surroundings. However, others may feel it’s much simpler to move straight into a furnished home.
What is the profile of the employees?
Consider the personal profile of the employees who are relocating, as this provides an insight into whether relocation furniture hire is the best option. If they are mainly new hires or university graduates, it may be ideal, as they probably won’t have amassed much of their own.
However, if the employees are mainly senior level executives, a different relocation package may make sense. Companies should consult with their relocation management firm to discuss the options that are most practical.
In conclusion, short-term furniture rental can be a game changer for employee relocations. It offers advantages for both employers and employees – so a win-win solution.