Landing a job in a new city is exciting — until you realize how expensive and complicated moving actually is. That’s where relocation packages come in. A good relocation package can make the difference between a smooth transition and a financially stressful one. But not all packages are created equal, and knowing what to ask for can save you thousands of dollars.

What’s Typically Included

Standard relocation packages usually cover some combination of moving expenses (packing, shipping, and transport of household goods), temporary housing for a set period while you find permanent housing, travel costs for house-hunting trips, and a lump sum or reimbursement for miscellaneous expenses. More generous packages might include home sale assistance, lease-breaking fees, spouse or partner job search support, and school search assistance for families with children.

Lump Sum vs. Managed Relocation

Companies typically offer one of two approaches. A lump sum gives you a fixed amount of money to cover your move however you see fit — it’s flexible but puts the planning burden on you. Managed relocation means the company coordinates and pays for services directly, often through a relocation management company. Managed packages tend to cover more but give you less control over the details.

What Most People Forget to Negotiate

Many candidates accept the first relocation offer without realizing it’s negotiable. Key areas to push on include tax gross-ups (relocation benefits are taxable income, and a gross-up means the company covers the tax hit), the duration of temporary housing, whether the package covers your partner’s job search costs, and the timeline for reimbursements. If the company wants you badly enough to relocate you, they’re usually willing to flex on the specifics.

The Bottom Line

A relocation package is a significant financial benefit that deserves as much attention as your salary negotiation. Understand what’s included, ask about what’s not, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. The worst they can say is no — and more often than not, they’ll find room to improve the offer.