Moving Truck Permit FAQs

• How far in advance of my moving date should I apply for a moving truck permit? 

You can apply online if your moving date is at least 15 days away, and no more than 8 weeks away. 

You can apply in person if your moving date is at least 3 days away, but no more than 8 weeks away. The Office of the Parking Clerk is at 1 City Hall Square Room 224 at Windows 4 and 5.

• What address should I put on my moving truck permit application?

You need to list the address you are moving into on your permit application. 

If you are moving from out-of-state, please make sure the mailing address you list is one that you are physically able to receive moving materials (ex. flyers, signs). If you are unable to post your signs ahead of moving in, please make sure there is someone local who can do it for you. Some third-party companies may also be able to help you post your signs.

• How long does it take to receive the physical permit?

After approval, physical permits are usually received by mail within 7-10 business days. Delivery times may vary. If you have not received your permit within 2 weeks of approval, you can request a replacement in person no later than 3 days before the move in date. You can contact us:

1. In person at the Office of the Parking Clerk (Boston City Hall, Room 224)
2. By phone (617-635-2560)
3. By email (movingtrucks@boston.gov)

• ​​​​​​​My moving permit application has been approved. When can I post signs and notices?

Once you receive the approval email, we will mail you the notice, signs, and your moving permit to the address listed on your application. Once you have the materials in hand, post signs and place flyers on cars at the designated address at least 48 hours in advance of your move.

• I am moving to an address on a number street in South Boston. When applying, how should I write out this address?

If you live on a numbered street, spell out the number instead of the digit.  You also do not need to put the compass into the address. For example, enter 12 Eighth Street instead of 12 8th Street.

• Can I use a Moving Permit during street cleaning or snow emergencies?

Moving permits can override meters during hours of operations, at a higher permit fee. If you have a permit during street cleaning, one person needs to stay with the vehicle at all times.

Moving Permits do not override the following posted parking restrictions, including:

1. Snow emergency regulations (i.e. Snow Emergency Parking)
2. Construction zones
3. On-street accessible parking
4. No stopping or standing/tow zone

• What streets are these permits applicable for?

Moving Truck Permits are only applicable for moves onto city-owned streets. 

If you are moving to a Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR)-owned street, please contact them for a temporary road access permit: 

1. Phone: 857-393-5412 
2. Email: AccessPermits@mass.gov

• ​​​​​​​I am moving to the North End later this summer. Why is my application getting denied?

If you are moving to the North End in July/August, we ask that you please call us before you apply for a permit to confirm if your street address will be impacted by feast-related road closures.

The Feast Dates for 2026 are: 

1. St. Agrippina: Thursday, July 30 - Sunday, August 2 (starts at 396 Hanover Street and all of Battery Street)
2. Madonna Della Cava: Friday, August 7 - Sunday, August 9 (starts at 396 Hanover Street and all of Battery Street)
3. Fisherman’s Feast: Thursday, August 13 - Sunday, August 16 (all of Fleet and Lewis streets, 183 - 330 North Street)
4. Saint Lucia and Saint Anthony: Thursday, August 27 - Sunday, August 30 (Thatcher St, N Margin St, Endicott St, Parts of Cooper and Prince St as well)
5. San Gennaro: TBD on dates (Paul Revere Mall on Hanover St)

• I plan to move using a rental car or minivan. Can I apply for a moving permit for my moving day?

No, personal vehicles are not eligible for this permit. This permit is for moving trucks, such as U-Haul, Pack Rat, and ABF.

• I am using a moving container on move-in day. Can I apply for a moving truck permit for my container?

All moving containers except ones from PODS are eligible for the City’s moving truck permit. For containers, you must apply in person at the Office of the Parking Clerk at 1 City Hall Square, Room 224 Windows 4 and 5. We are open Monday through Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm. 

If you are using a PODS container, you will need to contact Permit Puller to get their moving permit. You can contact them at 617-424-7275 or through the Permit Puller Website.