Moving to Boston is amazing, but here’s where most people feel the pressure – getting a moving permit.
On the day when you’ve finally packed everything, your belongings are loaded in the truck, your moving truck keeps circling just to find the right parking spot. And if you accidentally park where you’re not supposed to, get ready for the tickets that will be on your way!
This is why getting a moving permit will save you from this last-minute hassle and ensure you get a spot for your moving truck. In this guide, we have broken down how to get a moving permit in Boston, the cost, etc.
With that, let’s get into the details!
How Much Does a Moving Permit Cost In Boston?
Boston’s parking permit costs $110 for a moving truck that needs two metered spaces. However, the cost depends on multiple factors, and understanding the breakdown will help you budget wisely and plan accordingly:
- Application fee: $50 (covers processing irrespective of the truck size)
- Space calculation: $1 per square foot for the duration you need
- Signage: $4 per no-parking sign (most people require two)
- Metered space fees: $20 per metered space if you’re blocking paid parking
For online, you can pay via Visa Card, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, or a debit card.
How to Apply For a Parking Permit In Boston
There are two ways to apply for a parking permit. You can either do it online (if you fit the criteria we have mentioned below) or get your permit in person.
Apply Online:
Applying for a parking permit in Boston is easy online. However, you need to meet these two conditions before you apply:
- You need one one-day permit (standard size – 2 parking spaces)
- Your final moving date is a minimum of 2 weeks away or not more than 8 weeks.
- Moving permits are available only for trucks and not personal vehicles
f you meet the criteria above, you can apply by visiting the website here. Register if you are a new member or log in if you already have an account on this portal. You will have to upload all the documents, including lease papers, moving company information, etc.
Note that the parking permit is available between 7 AM to 5 PM. After applying online, you will receive the parking permit within 10 days via email through the US Postal Service. However, always double-check your details, such as billing address, parking address, etc.
In case you do not get your parking permit within 10 days, you can speak to the department by calling them at 617-635-2560. Just make sure you call them 3 days before your moving day.
Apply Offline:
If you do not fit the criteria to apply online, you will have to visit Boston City Hall in person. If you want to check out location availability as per your preference, you can enter the location and search here.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to apply for a parking permit in person:
Step 1: Visit the Transportation Department in Room 721 at Boston City Hall.
Step 2: Provide details such as the date of your move, the address of the parking, and whether there is metered parking.
Step 3: Once you get the permit, bring your payment and receipt to Public Works in Room 715.
Note: public spaces you are requesting for parking must be strictly parking spots only.
Tips for a Smooth Move in Boston
Getting a parking permit isn’t difficult, but it’s not very easy either. To ensure your transition and move are easy and actually exciting, here are some tips to remember:
Apply for a parking permit in a timely manner:
During fall and summer, getting a parking permit in Boston becomes more difficult than you think. This is because most people move in and out during this time. Therefore, in order not to return empty-handed, apply for a parking permit at least two weeks in advance (if applying online) or 3 days prior to your moving day (if applying offline).
Get the exact measurement of your moving truck:
The parking permit fee depends on the size of your moving truck. If you miscalculate, you might end up paying extra. On the other hand, you may end up in trouble if you assume you’ll require less space than you actually do. You can discuss with your moving company in Boston to get the exact dimensions of the moving truck.
Organize your moving permit documents:
Create multiple copies of your moving permit and keep them organized. Keep one visible in the moving truck, too, because the Boston parking enforcement will check.
Coordinate with your movers within the moving permit time:
Moving permit timings are 7 AM to 5 PM in the evening. You’d want to make sure that the move happens within this time, or else you can face tickets.
Inspect the parking location beforehand:
If time and circumstances allow, visit your parking location prior to checking for fire hydrants, bus stops, and other restrictions that can invalidate your parking permit despite getting it approved.
What To Do If a Car Is Parked Under Your Parking Spot?
It’s quite common to see someone else blocking your parking spot, which you have reserved. However, in such a situation, you don’t need to panic. Stay calm and call the Boston Police Department at 617-343-4911. Inform them that it’s not an emergency, but let them know the situation.
Provide all the details of your parking reservation along with the details of the car that’s parked in your spot. Depending on the situation, the police will first try to contact the owner of the car. In other situations, they might assign a towing van to move the car. All you need to do is follow the guidance offered by the police department.
Final Words
Getting a parking permit in Boston for moving may seem too much, but it’s necessary. Think of it as a small investment to have peace of mind when you’re moving. With a permit, you will have a spot that’s reserved only for you while the movers work on offloading your belongings.
Wherever you move in Boston, a parking permit will save you from the trouble of getting tickets for illegal parking. If you’re applying online, make sure to plan in advance. Similarly, if you’re going for an offline permit, apply 3 days prior.
After all, this ticks off one less thing to be stressed about during your final moving day!
At 617 Boston Movers, we understand that everyone has plenty of things to be stressed out about before moving. Indulging in paperwork or getting a parking permit is the last thing you’d want to add to your stress. This is why we help you handle the applications and get a permit while you simply focus on your move.
Call us today and make your move effortless!
