If you are moving to New York, you have probably rented a moving truck, cargo van or trailer. In New York, moving equipment rentals are classified as commercial vehicles, so there are parkway restrictions you must be aware of. Moving equipment is considered commercial when branded with a company name, like U-Haul. According to NYC DOT, commercial vehicles, trucks and tractor-trailers are prohibited on New York State Parkways. The image below shows some of the parkways that are open or closed to commercial vehicles.
Why Can’t Moving Trucks Go on Parkways?
So, one of the reasons commercial vehicles (including moving trucks) are not allowed on New York parkways is that they were designed for automobiles, and many of the bridges have as little as a 6’11” clearance. If a commercial vehicle can not clear the bridge and gets stuck, it can cause serious accidents, resulting in traffic delays. You’ll also receive a fine and points on your driver’s license. The NYC DOT advises people not to rely solely on GPS units when driving commercial vehicles. There are signs indicating whether commercial vehicles are allowed, so keep your eye out for them. You don’t want to end up like the scenario below! That can’t be good for your household goods or moving truck.
What Should You Do About New York Parkway Restrictions?
Planning is the best thing to do if you are moving to New York. Start by downloading this PDF for a complete list of restricted parkways in Downstate New York, and plan your route. Portions of Fifth Avenue, Park Avenue, and the Brooklyn Bridge also prohibit commercial vehicles. For a complete list and other information on driving commercial vehicles in New York, visit nyc.gov.
Consider Using a U-Box Container Instead
If you are planning an instate move to New York, consider using U-Box containers! They are perfect for city moves and can store your belongings until you’re ready to move into your new home. We can ship them across town and store them until you are ready. Containers are sealed with your lock and key. Your goods are transported by trucks with gentle ride suspension for safe shipping. While in storage, your possessions are kept in a secure U-Haul facility. The best part is that you can reserve as many U-Box containers and only get charged for the ones you use.
Moving Help is also available to pack your U-Box containers and make your move easier. Find Moving Helpers that meet your needs when you sort search results by overall rating, lowest cost, and services offered. So, sit back, relax and enjoy a hands-free move!
More Information
The best advice the New York Department of Transportation gives is to stay off the parkways. After all, there are many alternative routes! Staying on the interstates and paying attention to the “no truck” signs is a good tip. Do your research, and you can’t go wrong! If you have more questions, contact NY DOT here or via email at NYMoving@dot.ny.gov.
For more moving tips, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest!
Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in May 2013 and has been refreshed and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
