What should you know before moving to Westchester County?
Moving to Westchester County is often the natural next step for New Yorkers craving more space without losing access to the city. But trading a walk-up in Queens for a colonial in Scarsdale comes with its own set of logistical hurdles. From navigating strict municipal parking rules to understanding which parkways will slice the roof off a moving truck, the process requires expert planning.
At Dream Moving, we have helped countless families transition from city living to the suburbs. Whether you are using our Astoria moving services to pack up your apartment or heading straight north from Manhattan, we know exactly what it takes to get you there safely. This guide covers everything you need to know about the logistics of moving to Westchester, choosing the right town, and mastering the commute.
The rules you cannot ignore
One of the biggest mistakes we see DIY movers make is assuming the roads in Westchester are just like the ones in the city. They aren’t. Between low bridges and strict town ordinances, ignorance can lead to hefty fines or, worse, a stuck truck.
Do I need a parking permit for moving trucks in Westchester?
Yes, most major towns require you to secure permits 3 to 5 days in advance. Unlike NYC, where double-parking is sometimes an unavoidable reality, Westchester towns like White Plains and New Rochelle have strict enforcement.
- White Plains: If you are moving into a downtown high-rise, you must coordinate with the White Plains Department of Parking. Commercial vehicles are often restricted in municipal garages, meaning street occupancy permits are mandatory for loading and unloading.
- New Rochelle: This area has specific zoning laws regarding vehicle weight. In certain residential zones, vehicles over 8,500 lbs (gross weight) are restricted from street parking without prior authorization.
- The solution: When you book with Dream Moving, we guide you through this municipal red tape. We know which towns require police department authorization to block a lane and how to secure the necessary permits so you don’t face a ticket on moving day.
The “no commercial vehicles” parkway rule
If you are renting a truck and driving it yourself, this is the most critical rule to remember: Commercial vehicles are legally banned from New York State parkways.
This includes:
- Bronx River Parkway
- Hutchinson River Parkway
- Saw Mill River Parkway
These roads were designed for passenger cars in the early 20th century and feature historic stone bridges with clearances as low as 6 feet, 11 inches. According to the New York State Department of Transportation, commercial vehicles entering these parkways frequently cause accidents or get wedged under overpasses.
Our drivers at Dream Moving utilize designated commercial routes, primarily I-87 (Major Deegan/Thruway) and I-95 (New England Thruway), to ensure your belongings arrive safely and on time. We plan every route to avoid low bridges and restricted zones.
Top neighborhoods for NYC commuters
Choosing where to live often comes down to the commute. If you still need to be in the office a few days a week, these towns offer the best balance of lifestyle and connectivity.
Best for express commutes (under 40 mins)
- Tarrytown: Located on the Hudson Line, Tarrytown offers scenic river views and a vibrant, walkable downtown. It is perfect for those who want a village feel with a fast ride to Grand Central.
- White Plains: As the commercial hub of the county, White Plains features express trains on the Harlem Line that can get you to Manhattan in under 35 minutes. It is ideal for young professionals who aren’t quite ready to give up the energy of a city.
- New Rochelle: With access to both Metro-North’s New Haven Line and Amtrak, this is one of the most connected transport hubs in the region.
Best for families and quiet streets
- Scarsdale & Bronxville: These villages are renowned for top-tier schools and beautiful historic homes. However, the narrow, winding residential streets can be a nightmare for large moving trucks. This is where our expertise shines. We often utilize shuttle vans to ferry items from the main truck to the front door in these tighter neighborhoods, ensuring your lawn and driveway remain pristine.
Commuting to NYC: Train vs. car
Once you have settled in, you need to decide how you will get back to the city. Here is a breakdown of your options.
Commute Mode | Pros | Cons |
Metro-North Railroad | Reliable schedules; express trains take 35-50 minutes; productive time to read or work. | Station parking permits can have multi-year waitlists (especially in Scarsdale and Rye). |
Driving (I-87 / I-95) | Door-to-door flexibility; no need to adhere to a train schedule. | Unpredictable traffic on the Major Deegan and Cross Bronx; expensive monthly parking in NYC. |
Pro Tip: If you plan to take the train, check the MTA website for current parking waitlist times before you sign a lease. In some towns, daily metered parking is the only immediate option.
Why trust Dream Moving with your Westchester move?
Moving to the suburbs is a significant milestone, and you shouldn’t have to worry about the safety of your furniture or the legality of your truck route. We are experts in navigating the transition from the five boroughs to Westchester County.
From handling Certificates of Insurance (COI) for your city apartment building to navigating the steep driveways of the River Towns, we have seen it all. Our team handles the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Start your new chapter with confidence
Don’t let the stress of logistics ruin the excitement of your fresh start. Trust the local experts who know every parkway restriction and parking rule in the book.
Contact us today to get your free quote and make your Westchester move a dream.