Tailoring Employee Relocation Packages: Managed Caps vs. Lump Sums

When designing relocation benefits, companies must balance cost control, employee experience, and administrative efficiency. Two common approaches— managed cap programs and lump sum payments— offer different advantages. By leveraging NuCompass’ CoPilot® and CoPilot Express™, organizations can optimize both models to ensure a seamless, well-supported relocation experience for every tier.

1. Managed Caps with CoPilot: Structure with Flexibility

A managed cap program provides employees with a set budget for relocation expenses, but rather than receiving a direct payout, funds are administered through an RMC (Relocation Management Company). At NuCompass, CoPilot enhances this model by offering a technology-driven, transparent process that enables companies to track spending, control costs, and provide employees with expert support.

Benefits of Managed Caps with CoPilot

• Cost Control & Policy Compliance: CoPilot ensures that funds are allocated efficiently within company policies, preventing excessive spending and maintaining budget oversight.
• Guided Employee Experience: Employees receive hands-on support from NuCompass consultants, reducing stress and providing expert guidance on services like home sales, household goods shipments, and temporary housing.
• Data-Driven Insights & Reporting: CoPilot provides detailed tracking of expenses and relocation trends, helping organizations refine policies based on real-time data.

Potential Drawbacks of Managed Caps

• Less Employee Control: Since expenses are managed within a structured framework, employees may have limited flexibility compared to a direct cash payout. However, CoPilot offers greater flexibility with an additional miscellaneous allowance option.
• More Administration: Traditional managed cap programs require oversight, but CoPilot reduces this burden with automated tracking, streamlined approvals, and policy enforcement.

2. Lump Sums with CoPilot Express: Simplicity & Guidance

A lump sum payment gives employees a fixed amount often upfront to cover relocation costs. While this model provides maximum flexibility, it can lead to financial mismanagement if employees lack experience in handling relocation expenses. CoPilot Express bridges this gap by offering a guided relocation experience—helping employees make smarter financial decisions while maintaining their autonomy.

Benefits of Lump Sums with CoPilot Express

• Maximum Employee Flexibility: Employees can allocate their funds as they see fit while still accessing valuable relocation tools and recommendations.
• Simplified Administration: Employers eliminate the need to track expenses, as employees manage their own relocation budget independently.
• Guided Decision-Making: CoPilot Express provides cost estimators, vetted suppliers, and relocation checklists to help employees optimize their lump sum budget.
• Faster Relocation Process: Since funds are distributed upfront and employees are empowered with digital tools, they can make quicker decisions and reduce delays.

Potential Drawbacks of Lump Sums

• Risk of Overspending or Misallocation: Without expert guidance, employees may underestimate costs, leaving them short on essential services. CoPilot Express mitigates this by providing an extensive resource library and optional expert consultation service.
• Higher Tax Burden: Lump sum payments are considered taxable income, meaning employees receive less than the full amount after deductions. CoPilot Express offers gross-up capabilities to offset the tax reduction.

Choosing the Right Approach

For companies prioritizing cost control and structured support, a managed cap program with CoPilot offers visibility, efficiency, and expert guidance. Meanwhile, organizations that prefer a hands-off approach while still offering employee resources can benefit from CoPilot Express for lump sums. By integrating CoPilot and CoPilot Express, NuCompass empowers companies to deliver tailored relocation solutions that balance financial oversight, employee satisfaction, and process efficiency—ensuring a seamless move for employees at every level.

About NuCompass

NuCompass Mobility is a veteran-owned, independent mobility management company, offering a comprehensive range of global mobility and U.S. domestic relocation services. For more information about how NuCompass and our CoPilot® or CoPilot Express™ platforms can support your global mobility needs, visit www.nucompass.com/solutions/technology today!