The 6-Week Minneapolis Moving Checklist (2026 Edition)

Six weeks out: get organized

Moving in Minnesota rewards planning. Winter dumps snow on your driveway, summer books every mover in town, and the Twin Cities have their own DMV quirks. Start six weeks before your move date and everything gets easier.

• Pick your target moving day. Weekdays are cheaper than weekends across Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
• Request three moving quotes. Ask each mover whether they're licensed and insured in Minnesota.
• Start decluttering room by room. Donate to ARC's Value Village or Goodwill on University Ave.

Four weeks out: lock in the crew

• Book your movers. MNmovers and other reputable Twin Cities crews fill up 3–4 weeks out in peak season (May through September).
• Reserve elevators or loading docks at your current and new buildings. Minneapolis high-rises usually require a certificate of insurance from your movers.
• Order packing supplies. A 2-bedroom Twin Cities apartment usually needs 30–40 medium boxes.

Two weeks out: change your address

• File a change of address with USPS (free at usps.com/move).
• Update your driver's license address at any Minnesota DVS location — you have 30 days after moving to do this by law.
• Update your voter registration at mnvotes.sos.mn.gov.
• Transfer utilities: Xcel Energy for electric, CenterPoint for gas, and your city's water department.

One week out: pack the essentials

• Pack a "first night" box for each person: sheets, toiletries, phone charger, one change of clothes.
• Confirm the arrival window with your movers and share both addresses plus parking details.
• Empty and defrost the freezer 24 hours before moving day.

Moving day

• Meet the crew, walk them through the home, and point out anything fragile or "do not move."
• Keep valuables and important documents with you, not on the truck.
• Do a final walk-through before the truck leaves. Check closets, the basement, and the garage.

First week in your new place

• Change the locks or rekey.
• Test smoke and CO detectors — Minnesota law requires working detectors on every level.
• Locate the water shutoff and electrical panel.
• Meet your neighbors. Twin Cities neighborhoods are friendly if you say hi first.

Common Twin Cities questions

What's the cheapest month to move in Minnesota? January and February. Snow is a hassle, but movers have wide-open calendars and lower rates.

Do I need to tip Minnesota movers? It's customary — $20 to $40 per mover for a good job, more for long or difficult moves.

How much does a local Twin Cities move cost? Most 2-bedroom moves inside the metro run $600 to $1,200 depending on stairs, distance, and add-ons like packing.

Need a crew? Get a free quote from MNmovers or call (555) 012-3456.