How to become a relocation organizer

How to become a Relocation Organizer

Becoming a relocation organizer involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. While there is no single standardized pathway, the following are common steps to entering the career:

Develop Core Skills

• Organizational Skills – Ability to manage complex projects and multitask
• Communication Skills – Clear, empathetic interaction with clients
• Problem-Solving – Handling unexpected challenges during moves
• Physical Stamina – Managing hands-on tasks like packing and lifting

Educational Requirements and Options
There are no strict degree requirements, but a relevant educational background can expand career opportunities:

• Business Administration or Business Management – For corporate relocation
• Social Work or Gerontology – For senior move management
• Logistics or Supply Chain Management – For large-scale or international moves
• Interior Design or Professional Organizing – For home setup and space planning

Short courses in project management, customer service, or professional organizing can also be valuable.

Gain Experience
Start in assistant roles with professional organizers or moving companies. Volunteer with community relocation projects (e.g., helping seniors downsize). Build a portfolio showcasing organizational skills and successful moves.

Certifications and Professional Organizations
While you can work in relocation organizing or start a business in the field without one, a certification demonstrates proven competency and ethical commitment. Joining professional organizations provides opportunities for networking and continuing education.

• Certified Relocation Professional (CRP) – This designation from Talent Everywhere (also known as WERC-Worldwide Employee Relocation Council) is a prestigious credential recognizing professionals with extensive knowledge in managing talent mobility within the United States.
• Global Mobility Specialist (GMS) / Global Mobility Specialist, Talent Management (GMS-T) – These certifications, also from WERC, recognize professionals with comprehensive knowledge in global talent mobility and intercultural management skills.
• Certified Relocation & Transition Specialist (CRTS) – This credential encompasses the Senior Home Transition, Senior Relocation, and Senior Move fields. Individuals on the CRTS Professional Registry support older adults and their families as they move, organize, downsize, sell, and remodel their homes.
• Senior Move Manager - Certified – This credential, focused on senior relocations, is awarded by the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM).
• Certified Professional Organizer (CPO) – The CPO, awarded by the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers (BCPO), is the industry’s most respected, globally recognized credential. To earn it, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and 1,000 to 5,000 hours of paid organizing work experience accumulated within the five years prior to application. In addition, they must pass a comprehensive standardized exam and agree to adhere to the BCPO code of ethics. To maintain their CPO designation, they are required to pay an annual fee and to recertify every three years through either continuing education hours or retaking the exam.
• Trained Professional Organizer (TPO) – The Professional Organizers in Canada (POC) awards this credential to individuals who complete their structured education program.
• Lean Six Sigma Certification – Various organizations, including the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) and the American Society for Quality (ASQ), offer this certification, which focuses on workflow optimization and process improvement and efficiency using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) – Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this certification helps individuals develop skills in managing and executing projects effectively.
• Productivity and Leadership Certifications – Various programs are available online.
• Digital Organization Certifications – Training in tools like Microsoft 365, Trello, Asana, or Notion can be helpful.
• Certificates from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD) – The ICD offers various certificates and a CPO-CD (Certified Professional Organizer – Chronic Disorganization) certification for those specializing in chronic disorganization and related challenges like hoarding and ADHD.
• National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO) – NAPO is dedicated to helping people and organizations bring order and efficiency to their lives. Its mission is to be the leading source for organizing and productivity professionals by providing education, enhancing business connections, advancing industry research, and increasing public awareness.
• Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers (APDO) – This membership association provides training and a strong professional community for organizers and declutterers working in the UK.
• International Association of Movers (IAM) – IAM is a global network for moving and relocation professionals.
• International Facility Management Association (IFMA) – This association is relevant for organizers working in corporate facilities.

Build Your Own Business
If launching an independent relocation organizing business, partner with moving companies, real estate agents, or senior living facilities.

Continue Professional Development
Attend industry conferences and workshops. Stay updated on relocation trends, technology, and best practices. Expand services into specialized niches to remain competitive.