I am about to negotiate an expatriate package with my company that would relocate myself and family (wife - 2 kids) to the Yokohama area, probably for 3 years or so.

The company is quite interested and has a strong presence in A-Pac, including an office in Yokohama.

Any tips on what I should request as part of the negotiation? I am not looking to to "make a bundle" and then retreat back to the 'States. I welcome the opportunity for myself and family and I believe it will help the company develop key business sectors in the region. Hence, I am basically looking for what is reasonable for both parties.

The family and I have discussed and hope to effectively 'dump' all worldly possessions such that we can travel lightly. We would look for an apartment as close in as we can afford and would use public transportation to commute to work, school, etc.

As far as I can tell, my U.S. salary would need to be roughly doubled if we are to enjoy a similar standard of living (other than housing, which would be down-sized quite a bit.)

If anyone has gone through this and has tips, that would be very helpful.