Moving From NYC or Westchester to Connecticut: Why the Truck Takes I-95, Not the Merritt

Updated October 11, 2026

Fairfield County is a common next step for New York families: Greenwich, Stamford, Darien and Norwalk are close to the city and to Westchester. In a car, many people drive up the Hutchinson River Parkway and the Merritt Parkway. A moving truck may not use either one, so the move follows the interstate instead.

Parkways are closed to moving trucks in both states

In New York City, commercial vehicles may not use the Hutchinson River Parkway, the Bronx River Parkway, the Henry Hudson Parkway north of 59th Street and the other parkways on the city’s list (NYC DOT: parkway restrictions for commercial vehicles).

In Connecticut, the Merritt Parkway runs from the New York State line in Greenwich to Exit 54 in Milford. The state’s answer to “Are box trucks or tractor trailers allowed on the Parkways?” is no. Vehicles taller than 8 feet, longer than 24 feet or wider than 7 feet 6 inches are not allowed there either (Connecticut DOT: parkway restrictions).

The route a moving truck takes

Trucks may use the interstate highways (NYSDOT: highways for commercial traffic). From the Bronx and Westchester, a move to the Connecticut shore usually goes up Interstate 95, the New England Thruway. From Manhattan, the truck reaches I-95 on the city’s truck routes (NYC DOT: trucks and commercial vehicles (truck routes)). I-95 carries more traffic than the Merritt, so the crew plans the start time around rush hours; an early start usually means a shorter day.

A move to Connecticut is an interstate move

Crossing a state line makes it an interstate move. It falls under our federal license, U.S. DOT No. 967970 (MC-432549). The federal government explains your rights in FMCSA: your rights and responsibilities when you move and in the FMCSA: Ready to Move? brochure. Ask for a written estimate and read what it includes. A move from the Bronx to Westchester, by contrast, stays inside New York; see moving from the Bronx to Westchester.

Houses, driveways and condo rules

Many Connecticut homes have driveways, outside steps and garages. Condo and apartment buildings may have their own move rules and ask for a certificate of insurance (COI). Tell us if the truck can use the driveway, whether there are steps to the door, and whether anything goes to a basement or an attic.

After the move

Change your address with USPS before the move (USPS: change your address).
The Connecticut DMV explains how new residents transfer a driver license and register a car. Check its current deadlines when you move.
Keep keys, documents and a first-night box in your own car.

What to put in your estimate request

Both addresses, the floors and the elevator or stairs on each end, the driveway at the new house, your date, and photos of your largest pieces.

Questions we hear

Can a moving truck use the Merritt Parkway?

No. Connecticut DOT says box trucks and tractor trailers are not allowed on its parkways, and it limits vehicle height, length and width there.

Can a moving truck use the Hutchinson River Parkway?

No. NYC DOT lists the Hutchinson River Parkway among the roads closed to commercial vehicles.

Is a move from New York to Connecticut an interstate move?

Yes, it crosses a state line. Our federal license is U.S. DOT No. 967970 (MC-432549).

How do I get an estimate?

Call (929) 232-3444 or use the quote form on our home page. The estimate is free and in writing.

Free written estimate: call (929) 232-3444 or use the quote form on our home page. Family business since 1999 · U.S. DOT No. 967970 (MC-432549) · NYSDOT 34875 · NJPM 000930 · Company facts

More moving guides

Rules change. We read the official pages linked here in October 2026; check the linked page before you rely on it.

Official sources

Moving guides · October 11, 2026