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Relocating for Work? Your Complete Guide to Making the Move Easier
Thinking about relocating for work? You’re not alone. Each year, thousands of professionals move across cities, provinces, or even international borders in pursuit of new opportunities. But moving for a job means more than just changing your workplace—it’s a life shift that affects your finances, your family, and your future.
This guide explores the full picture—from cost of living and housing to relocation services and lifestyle fit. And when it’s time to plan your move, Atlas Van Lines is here to help—whether you’re moving across the country or across the globe.
Why People Relocate for Work
Relocation for employment is a key driver behind long-distance moves. Whether it’s a corporate transfer, a new role in another province, or a cross-border opportunity, job changes can take you far—literally.
Top reasons people move for work include:
- Career advancement or promotions
- Strategic relocations to industry hubs
- Remote or hybrid roles with geographic flexibility
- Organizational restructuring or new business launches
- Lifestyle upgrades or personal goals
More than 80,000 Canadians make job-related moves each year—many of them across borders.
Work Relocation Tips: Pros & Cons to Consider Before You Commit
1. Career Impact
- Is this a stepping stone, or your dream job?
- Does the location support long-term career growth?
- Is a corporate relocation package included to support the move?
2. Family Considerations
Relocating with a partner or children? Think through:
- Dual-career planning: Will your spouse need a new job?
- Education: Are there quality schools or daycare options nearby?
- Support system: Will you be moving away from close family or caregivers?
3. Cost of Living & Housing: Run the Numbers
Before saying yes to the job, make sure the compensation aligns with your actual expenses.
Checklist of key questions to ask:
- Is the cost of living higher or lower than where you are now?
- What’s the local housing market like? Can you buy or rent affordably?
- Will transportation, insurance, or utility costs go up in the new location?
- Are there tax deductions or other benefits to consider?
For example, relocating from Calgary to San Francisco or Toronto to London could mean a major increase in cost—despite a higher salary. Understanding the cost of living comparison is critical for your financial well-being.
4. Lifestyle & Community Fit
Beyond numbers, your daily quality of life matters.
- Do you prefer urban energy or small-town pace?
- Does the climate align with your comfort and hobbies?
- Is there access to parks, gyms, restaurants, and cultural amenities?
Moving for work doesn’t just change where you live—it changes how you live.
Try Before You Commit: Test the Move First
If you’re not 100% sure the new location is a fit, explore these options for relocating before starting work:
- Short-term corporate housing: Common for relocation packages
- 3–6 month rental: Buy yourself time to explore neighbourhoods
- Remote onboarding: Some employers allow you to start the job remotely before moving
Testing the waters helps reduce long-term regrets—and gives you a trial run before making permanent decisions.
How to Make Your Work Relocation Smoother
Relocating for work can be stressful, but the right planning makes a world of difference.
Create a Custom Moving Timeline
Plan backward from your start date and account for packing, home sales or leases, visa paperwork (if applicable), and school transfers.
Use Technology to Simplify the Process
With tools like Yembo, Atlas Van Lines provides a virtual home walk-through for accurate, fast estimates without the need for in-person visits.
Ask About Corporate Relocation Support
Your employer may cover:
- Professional long-distance moving services
- Packing/unpacking and storage
- Cross-border moving support
- Temporary housing or housing search services
- Help for your partner in finding new employment
- Bonus options and other financial assistance
Even if relocation isn’t covered, you may be able to negotiate a relocation allowance.
Wondering how to ask? Be honest with the company about your concerns and issues, with research to back up any requests.
Plan Beyond the Move
Build a personal transition plan:
- Change addresses, transfer licenses and health coverage
- Set up essential services (banking, internet, insurance)
- Join a local gym, community group, or professional association to meet people
Settle or Stay Flexible? Define Your Goals
Are you in this new location to put down roots—or to explore?
- For short-term assignments, rent and travel light
- For permanent moves, invest in long-term housing, schools, and community ties
- Reassess your goals 3–6 months in to see if the relocation is delivering what you hoped
Why Atlas Van Lines Is Your Best Move Partner
Whether you’re relocating across Canada, to the U.S., or internationally, Atlas Van Lines brings over 60 years of experience in long-distance moving.
We offer:
- Door-to-door service for moves across borders and overseas
- Professional packing and secured containerization
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Real-time tracking
- A trusted network of moving agents across North America and beyond
When you partner with Atlas, you’re not just booking a mover—you’re gaining a relocation ally.
Final Thought: It’s Not Just About the Job. It’s About the Journey.
Relocating for work is a big leap—but with careful planning and the right moving partner, it can be the beginning of something great. When you’re ready to make the move—whether across the country or across the world—Atlas Van Lines is here to help you take the next step.