Welcome to Boston: 3 Tips for a Successful Move

The City of Boston is proud to welcome the region's college and university students to Boston. We hope you enjoy your time here and ultimately decide to stay, work, and play in our city.

  • Moving Truck (200)

    1. Reserve Parking for your Moving Truck Early

    Secure parking space for your van or truck by obtaining a street occupancy permit. The permit saves you from unwanted parking tickets, guarantees you convenient space to load/unload your vehicle, and is a valued courtesy to your neighbors.

    Permits are available at City Hall, and are available during business hours (9:00 AM - 5:00PM). Start at the Transportation Department in room 721 of City Hall, and make sure to bring any parking meter-head numbers at the location and payment (check; money order; or a Visa, Mastercard, Discover debit or credit card).

    Wait times are typically 15 minutes, but can push an hour or more during the summer months when everyone's moving. Get your permit up to 2 weeks before your moving date to avoid the rush.

    Photo credit Jamie Hull, Flickr

    More Information »

  • Donating Clothing (200)

    2. Donate or Recycle - Don't Dump!

    If you're looking to get rid of clutter during your move, don't just dump it on the sidewalk. Several organizations throughout the Greater Boston Area can arrange a free pickup of your good-condition furntiure or goods (including your mattress!).

    If you do dump, help the City and your neighbors by looking up the item in our Household Waste Look-Up. This free tool tells you if your item can be recycled, trashed, or needs (free) special pick-up by the City. Proper trash disposal eliminates waste on the streets, and decreases pests (rodents, bed bugs, etc.) in your neighborhood.

    Image from Goodwill of Boston

    Where to Donate Goods »

    Household Waste Look-Up »

  • Damaged Sign Screenshot (200)

    3. Use 311 to Report Problems & Request Services

    With the BOS:311 app and online services menu, you are the eyes and ears of the City. Easily report issues ranging from an unresponsive landlord and broken smoke alarms to missed trash and potholes on your street.

    Using the app is easy:

    - Download on Google Play or in the App Store and open on your mobile phone.
    - Click "New Report" an choose your issue.
    - Snap a photo, select location, and write a brief description. Click "Submit" to complete.

    We're also available by phone at 311.

    Mobile App »

Useful Resources

  • My Neighborhood

    Just enter your property address to get detailed information about your community such as the nearest library or community center. You can even find out what day your trash will be picked up or where to vote!

    Find Your Neighborhood

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