01/09/2026
As summer comes to an end, many organisations shift their attention to workforce planning, budget forecasting, and strategic priorities for the year ahead. This makes September one of the most important months for HR leaders, Global Mobility teams, and business decision-makers to start planning international relocations.
The demand for global talent continues to grow. According to the Worldwide ERC®, more than 70% of organisations expect employee mobility to remain the same or increase as businesses expand into new markets and compete for specialised talent.
At the same time, international assignments remain a critical business tool. Research from KPMG shows that global mobility programmes are increasingly being used to support skills gaps, leadership development, and business growth objectives, rather than simply filling temporary vacancies.
So why do many companies begin relocation planning in September?
✅ Prepare for January start dates
Many international assignments, leadership relocations, and project deployments are scheduled to begin in January. Starting the process in September allows sufficient time for immigration, housing, shipment scheduling, and destination services.
✅ Avoid year-end bottlenecks
Visa processing, housing availability, and moving capacity can become more constrained during the final quarter of the year. Early planning helps organisations secure preferred timelines and reduce operational risk.
✅ Support employee experience
Employee wellbeing remains a key concern. According to Cartus' Global Mobility Survey, organisations continue to place greater emphasis on family support, destination services, and employee experience during relocations. Providing employees with more preparation time can significantly reduce relocation-related stress and improve assignment success.
✅ Improve budget control
As businesses start forecasting for the next financial year, September offers an ideal opportunity to assess upcoming mobility requirements and accurately budget for assignments, transfers, and international moves.
✅ Align talent mobility with business strategy
Whether supporting expansion into new markets or moving key talent to strategic locations, early planning ensures mobility programmes are aligned with organisational goals and workforce needs.
Looking ahead starts now
International relocation is no longer simply about moving people from one location to another. It is an essential part of workforce strategy, talent development, and business growth. Organisations that begin planning in September gain greater flexibility, improved cost control, and a smoother experience for relocating employees and their families.
At Schmidt Global Relocations, we help businesses plan and manage international moves with confidence, ensuring employees are supported every step of the journey.
How is your organisation preparing for its 2027 mobility needs?