What is the Worldwide ERC?

🌐 What is the Worldwide Employee Relocation Council?

[Membership Overview]

In the United States, we are a nation where employee relocation and the use of relocation specialists (add link: relocation-specialist) are not uncommon. The demand for relocation has grown steadily since the second half of the 20th century. To support this demand, the Worldwide Employment Relocation Council was created.

🤝 What Is the Worldwide ERC?

(Employment Relocation Council Explained)

The Worldwide ERC—short for Worldwide Employee Relocation Council—is the leading workforce mobility association for professionals who manage or support U.S. domestic and international employee transfers
(add link: https://www.businessroundtable.org/policy-perspectives/immigration/state-of-immigration/transferring-high-skilled-employees-across-borders).

Its purpose is to support its members in navigating the complex challenges of workforce mobility. Members come from various sectors including real estate, human resources, and the military. Thanks to the work of Worldwide ERC and solutions like International PEO (add link: international-peo), employee relocation has become more streamlined and efficient.

🕰️ History of the Worldwide Employment Relocation Council

The Worldwide ERC was founded in 1964 in Chicago by six relocation industry pioneers. The need for structured and professional support in relocating employees was growing rapidly.

Within one year, the organization had already grown to over 80 members

Today, it boasts a global network of over 12,000 professionals

To support employee transitions, consider services such as destination services (add link: destination-services) that help with housing, schooling, furniture, and more.

📌 Things to Know About ERC Worldwide

Here are key facts about the organization:

🏛️ Headquartered in Washington, D.C. with a European office in Brussels, Belgium

🌍 Over 12,000 members worldwide from diverse industries

📚 Offers prestigious certifications like:

Global Mobility Specialist

Certified Relocation Professional (add link: crp-certification)

💼 Various membership options:

Corporate Membership

Mobility Service Membership

Personal/Professional Membership (PERC)

📋 Membership Categories Explained

Thinking about joining ERC? Here's a breakdown of the membership types:

🏢 Corporate Membership

Designed for in-house professionals—such as HR staff or government liaisons—who are involved in employee mobility.

Important Notes:

Not intended for companies that market workforce mobility services

Membership applies per individual, not company-wide

🚚 Mobility Service Membership

This option is for businesses that provide workforce mobility services.

Not transferable between companies

The listed member must be authorized by the company owner

👩‍💼 Personal/Professional Membership (PERC)

Ideal for:

Job seekers

Individuals between roles

Independent professionals involved in workforce mobility

Benefits include:

💸 Conference discounts

🔐 Access to exclusive ERC community groups and resources

To explore membership options or sign up, visit worldwideerc.org.

✅ Final Thoughts

Understanding the Worldwide Employment Relocation Council is critical for any company planning employee relocations. ERC membership provides valuable tools, networking, and guidance to keep your program compliant, strategic, and employee-focused.

📞 Want expert help managing relocations?
Schedule a consultation with CARS Relocation today to learn how we can support your workforce mobility goals!