Choosing the right relocation management company (RMC) is one of the most crucial decisions an organization can make when establishing or expanding a mobility program. With talent shortages, complex tax policies, and rising employee expectations, relocation has become increasingly challenging. The right RMC can help you attract and retain top talent, minimize compliance risks, and deliver cost-effective mobility solutions.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
What is a Relocation Management Company (RMC)?
An RMC is a third-party partner that manages and delivers relocation services for your employees, from home sales to moving logistics and tax compliance.
Why does a company need an RMC?
An RMC reduces the complexity and cost of relocation while ensuring employees get consistent, high-quality support.
How do I choose the right RMC?
Start by defining your relocation needs, then compare providers on services, technology, pricing transparency, and cultural fit.
What should I ask a potential RMC?
Key questions include: Do they have global coverage? How do they manage suppliers? What is their pricing model? What technology do they provide?
How much does an RMC cost?
RMCs don’t typically charge retainers. Costs depend on the number of relocations, the benefits you offer, and bundled supplier pricing.
A Deeper Dive into Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Relocation Management Company (RMC)?
An RMC is a specialized firm that oversees all aspects of employee relocation. Unlike standalone moving companies or real estate agents, a full-service RMC coordinates household goods, home sales, temporary housing, immigration, cultural training, and tax compliance on your behalf. They act as an extension of your HR and mobility team, managing suppliers and ensuring employees receive consistent care.
Why should a company use an RMC?
Relocation touches tax law, real estate, immigration, payroll, and employee experience. Without expertise, companies often handle relocations reactively, leading to higher costs, compliance risks, and unhappy employees. An RMC brings:
- Negotiated vendor pricing (saving money)
- Tax and compliance expertise
- Technology platforms for tracking expenses and performance
- Employee support that enhances retention and productivity
How do I choose the right RMC for my company?
Start by defining your needs: how many employees relocate annually, how many are homeowners vs. renters, and your most common move locations. Then evaluate RMCs on:
- Core competency: Is relocation their specialty?
- Coverage: Can they handle U.S. and global moves?
- Supplier management: Do they vet and manage real estate, household goods, and destination service providers?
- Technology: Is their platform modern and user-friendly?
- Cultural fit: Does their approach align with your company’s values?
What should I include in an RFP for an RMC?
A well-organized RFP (Request for Proposal) makes it easier to compare RMCs. Ask about service models, pricing transparency, global reach, and sample account team bios. References from current clients can also provide insight into service quality. Keep the list manageable (usually 3–5 RMCs) to prevent being overwhelmed with data.
How much does an RMC cost?
RMCs usually don’t charge annual retainers. Instead, you pay for services as you use them, with costs driven by the number of relocations and benefit levels. Thanks to volume discounts, outsourcing often delivers more value at a lower cost than piecemeal services. Be sure to request transparent pricing that outlines service fees, referral fees, and bundled package costs.
How do I build a successful long-term RMC partnership?
Selecting an RMC is just the start. The best partnerships are built on:
- Clear contracts with scope, pricing, KPIs, and performance reviews.
- Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that measure timeliness, accuracy, and employee satisfaction.
- Regular communication with the RMC’s account team to address challenges and adjust policies as needs evolve.
Want a step-by-step roadmap for choosing the right relocation partner?
Download the ebook, Relocation 101: Selecting a Relocation Management Company, which walks you through the entire procurement process, from assessing needs and writing RFPs to negotiating contracts and building a long-term partnership.
> Download the Relocation 101 eBook