New Job - Remote Onboarding issues (Cannot get equip)

LukeH7789

So I've been offered a new job. Contracts are all signed e.t.c. And now it's getting close to the start date and we've not got the logistics finalised for getting the equipment on day 1.

Previously I worked in Germany and currently live here, but I've been made redundant so I found a job back in the UK. However speaking to the agent who got me the job he said that they would ship the equipment out to germany no issues. Now they're (the job), saying that apparently I agreed to it being shipped in the UK. I'm not even sure if I can get back to the UK at the moment as flights aren't running. I am looking to come back to the UK ASAP, but it's physically not possible. I am trying to help however I can?

What would you do? Anything you can advise? Also anything I need to be careful of? I'm trying to be as flexible as I can.

Brynsam

Try to avoid a direct argument about whether or not you agreed to the equipment being shipped to the UK. Instead, turn it round to something alone the lines of 'because I can't get back to the UK at present, is it possible to have equipment sent to me in Germany so I can start work on the date planned?'. Stop there - don't be tempted to add anything further about delays, new start dates etc - and see what transpires.

Grumpy_chap

Make sure to emphasise the temporary nature of being in Germany and you could offer to cover the extra cost of the international shipment (though I can't imagine a bit of postage cost really being a financial concern to any company.  

The thing is the company might be concerned that there could be tax or other implications if they are employing someone across borders.  They might simply not know.

Is there a UK address the stuff could be shipped to (family member) and then they could ship it on to you in Germany?

LukeH7789

@Grumpy_chap Yes. they have a uk address for me as I'll be moving back to the UK in about 5-6 weeks time. It's more a case of if they're shipping it there, then I ship it onwards, that will just add extra delays.

Thanks @Brynsam I've asked them if I need the temporary equip and if I could just remote in from my pc I have here. I am also trying to see if the agent can get involved, I'm just a bit worried really as in the current climate I really don't want to be unemployed