Minnesota Moving
Moving in a Minnesota Winter: What You Need to Know
Minnesota winters are real. But here's what most people don't realize: for the right person, moving in winter might actually be the smartest time to do it.
Minnesota's moving season peaks hard from May through September — that's when demand is highest, the end and start of every month fill up first, and apartment elevators have waitlists. Move between October and April, especially in January or February, and everything changes.
More Flexibility
In peak season we recommend booking two to three weeks ahead. In winter, about a week is usually enough, and your preferred date is far more likely to be open.
Easier Building Access
Elevators, loading docks, and street parking are dramatically easier to secure in winter.
Well-Rested Crew
Summer means back-to-back jobs for every moving crew. In winter, there's more breathing room to plan your move and give it full attention.
Midweek & Mid-Month Options
With fewer moves on the calendar, it's easier to pick the exact day and start time that works around your closing or lease.
The tradeoff is the weather. Here's what actually makes winter moving difficult — and how to plan around each one.
Ice & Snow on Walkways
The biggest physical hazard. Icy paths slow everything down and create injury risk. Clear and salt every path at both homes before the crew arrives, and a good crew checks footing on steps and walkways before carrying anything heavy.
Temperature Effects on Belongings
Extreme cold can affect wood furniture, electronics, and leather with rapid temperature changes. Minimize time items spend in open air and keep them well wrapped throughout transport.
Wet Boots on Hardwood Floors
Snow and slush tracked in on boots and dollies can scratch and damage hardwood fast. Floor protection runners are non-negotiable on winter moves — we use them every job, every season.
Longer Setup Times
Everything takes slightly longer in the cold. Build a time buffer into your schedule and don't stack commitments immediately after your move window ends.
Snow Emergencies & Parking
When Minneapolis or Saint Paul declares a snow emergency, parking rules change street by street, and vehicles in the wrong spot can be ticketed and towed. Check your city's snow emergency status the night before, and plan where the truck will park at both ends. Suburbs like Woodbury and Eagan have their own winter parking rules, too.
The right equipment and a solid plan make winter moves as smooth as any other season.
The Night Before Your Winter Move- Salt and clear your driveway, front steps, and all walkways
- Confirm your elevator reservation if you're in an apartment building
- Create a clear path from every room being emptied to the front door
- Lay out a designated "boot zone" near the entrance
- Keep interior doors closed between loads to hold heat inside
- Keep pets and kids warm and out of high-traffic paths
- Load electronics and temperature-sensitive items last — unload them first
- Let wood and leather pieces fully acclimate before unwrapping at the destination
- Give electronics a few hours to warm up before plugging them in, so any condensation can dry
The Bottom Line
With the right crew, the right equipment, and a solid plan — a February move in Woodbury, Lakeville, or Minneapolis goes just as smoothly as one in July. That's true whether it's a local Twin Cities move or a move across the state. And you'll have a much easier time booking the elevator.
Winter Moving FAQ
Is it a good idea to move in winter in Minnesota?
For many people, yes. Demand drops from October through April, so dates are easier to get, elevators and loading docks are easier to reserve, and about a week's notice is usually enough. The tradeoff is weather, which takes planning: clear and salt paths, protect floors, and build extra time into the day.
Do movers still move in the snow?
Yes. Professional movers work year-round in Minnesota. A crew should protect floors with runners, keep paths clear, wrap furniture against the cold, and adjust the plan for ice or a snow emergency rather than cancel at the first flake.
How do I protect my floors during a winter move?
Ask the mover to lay floor runners and protect door frames before anything moves, set up a boot zone near the entrance, and keep slush off hardwood. Collegiate Power Movers uses floor protection on every job, every season.
What happens if there is a snow emergency on moving day?
In Minneapolis and Saint Paul, a snow emergency changes where vehicles can park and when, and cars in the wrong spot can be towed. Check the city's snow emergency status the night before and talk with your mover about where the truck will park.
Moving This Winter?
We've done this in every Minnesota season. MN DOT #385610 · 140+ five-star reviews · Based in Woodbury.