A senior move manager helps an older adult sort, downsize and get settled in a new home. They are not all alike. Here's what I look at, in my own words.
“I understand the nuances and the differences between the senior move management companies, and can very confidently talk with my clients about those differences... I never refer anybody unless I have vetted the company. I understand how they work. I understand who is a good referral for them.”
Can you pay only for what you need?
This is one of the first things I ask. Some move companies bundle their services, and the client can't pick and choose.
As I put it: “There are some move companies that bundle their services and don't have any flexibility on how much the client can customize and only pay for what they need. That's one of the questions I ask.”
Some families need help with everything. Others only need help with one or two pieces. The company should fit the family, not the other way around.
Do they move your things themselves?
Some move management companies also offer moving services. If they do, they need to be set up for it.
In Minnesota, a company that moves household goods for pay needs a household goods mover permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Its insurance company also has to file proof of liability and cargo insurance with MnDOT, and the company can't legally operate as a mover until the permit is issued.
As I put it: “You want to make sure that the move manager isn't picking up boxes and throwing them in a rental trailer if they aren't licensed to do the work.”
If a move manager says they'll handle the move itself, ask whether they hold the MnDOT household goods mover permit, or which licensed mover they work with.
Are they a NASMM member?
I like it when a move manager belongs to the national association. Today it's called the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM).
Here's why: “If I have a client moving into or out of state, I have somebody who can help arrange finding a reputable move manager on the other end of the national move.”
NASMM also has a “Locate a Senior or Specialty Move Manager” search on its website at nasmm.org.
Who is their best client?
I ask every move manager, “What kind of clients do you prefer? What's a good referral for you?”
“There are some move managers that are just better at working with vulnerable adults, and there are some move managers that cater to luxury clients,” I've said. “Understanding what a move manager's specialty is helps me with making a great referral to my client, because then I know if that company is a good fit for them.”
So when you call the name I give you, I already expect it to be a good fit.
Where a realtor fits
I don't do packing or clean-out myself. My job is the house: timing the sale around the move, and pointing you to people I've already checked. If you're helping a parent, our pages on helping a parent move and moving to senior living are a good next read.
Want a name you can trust?
Call or text me at 612-599-3484, and tell me a little about the move. I'll tell you who I'd call.
Keep reading
Frequently asked questions
What does a senior move manager do?
A senior move manager helps older adults and families sort, downsize and relocate, or set up to stay in place. Some also offer the physical move. NASMM describes its members as professionals who help older adults and families "organize, declutter, downsize, relocate or age in place."
Source: nasmm.org (checked Oct 21, 2026).
Do movers need a license in Minnesota?
A company that moves household goods for pay in Minnesota needs a household goods mover permit from MnDOT, with liability and cargo insurance on file. It can't legally operate as a mover until the permit is issued.
Source: MnDOT household goods carriers.
Can I hire a move manager for just part of the job?
Some companies let you pick only the services you need. Others bundle everything together. Ask before you sign.
Why does NASMM membership matter for an out-of-state move?
If your parent is moving into or out of Minnesota, a NASMM member can help find a reputable move manager on the other end.
Do you do the packing or clean-out?
No. I share move managers I've vetted and plan the home sale around their work.
This article is general education, not legal, tax or financial advice.