Smooth moves

GCSAA's online Career Center offers information to assist members considering a job offer and relocation through interview tips, advice on negotiating compensation and benefits, state-by-state compensation and benefits salary information, and a model employment contract.

Check to see if the local or regional newspaper publishes a relocation guide. Also consider getting a temporary subscription to the local newspaper to get a jump-start on what the new location has to offer.

Call the local chamber of commerce and economic development council to obtain labor, crime, school and community statistics. This information may also be obtained online in many locations.

See GCSAA's Web site for useful links to compare the cost of living in different cities. The site also offers links to information on moving services, housing, utilities, etc. Another link gives information on salary calculation, school reports, crime statistics, relocation timeline, etc.

Want to know how to make your move go smoother? See www.moving.com for more information.