Quick answer
A senior move manager plans and manages a move for an older adult: sorting and downsizing belongings, floor-planning the new home, arranging movers, packing, unpacking and setting up, and handling what's left behind through sale, donation or cleanout. They charge hourly or by the job and should give a written estimate. They're especially helpful when family is far away or the house is full. (800) 614-8388 and we'll connect you with move managers near you.
What a senior move manager does
- Plans the move and sets the timeline around the move-in date.
- Helps sort what to keep, give to family, sell, donate or discard, at your parent's pace.
- Floor-plans the new home, so only what fits gets packed.
- Hires and supervises movers, or coordinates with the ones you choose.
- Packs and unpacks, then sets up the new place: bed made, clothes hung, photos up.
- Clears the old house through estate sales, consignment, donations or cleanout, so it's ready to sell.
Some do all of this themselves; others manage specialists. NASMM describes both kinds.
When a move manager makes sense
- Family lives out of town or can't take weeks off work.
- The house holds decades of belongings.
- The move is tied to a health change and time is short.
- Sorting is causing family arguments, and a neutral helper would calm things down.
- Your parent is moving into assisted living or memory care and needs the new space to feel familiar on day one.
How they charge
Hourly or a package price for the job, with movers often billed separately. NASMM says a specific move's cost is hard to predict and that members give a written estimate before payment. See senior move manager costs.
How to choose one
- Ask whether they are a member of NASMM, the National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers.
- Ask for proof of insurance, a written estimate and a written contract.
- Ask who will actually be in the home, and whether they're employees or subcontractors.
- Ask for references from families who moved a parent in the last year.
- Ask how they handle valuables, papers and photos.
Planning a move in the Kansas City area?
We'll connect you with move managers who serve your parent's area and give written estimates. Free.
Questions families ask
What is the difference between a senior move manager and a mover?
Movers transport belongings. A senior move manager plans and manages the whole transition: sorting, floor plans, packing, unpacking and clearing the old home.
How long does a senior move take?
It depends on the home and the timeline. Many moves take a few weeks of sorting before moving day, and longer for a full house.
Do move managers help sell the house?
They typically get the house cleared and ready. The sale itself is handled by a real estate agent. See selling a parent's home.
Can a move manager work with family who live far away?
Yes. Many work closely with out-of-town family by phone and video.