Relocating from Springfield to Boston: Your Long-Distance Moving Checklist

January 29, 2026

So, you’re trading the scenic views of the Pioneer Valley for the historic charm and fast-paced energy of the Hub. Whether you’re moving for a new job in the Seaport District, heading to grad school, or just looking for a change of pace, relocating from Springfield to Boston is an exciting milestone.

However, while the distance is only about 90 miles, the transition from a relaxed Western MA lifestyle to the logistical maze of Boston is a significant jump. Between navigating the Mass Pike (I-90) and figuring out where on earth to park a moving truck in Beacon Hill, there is a lot to coordinate.

To help you stay organized, the team at Four Guys and a Truck has put together the ultimate checklist for your move East.

1. Audit Your Belongings (The “Lighter is Better” Rule)

Boston is famous for many things—championship trophies, incredible seafood, and… notoriously small apartments. Before you start packing, be ruthless with your inventory.

Declutter Each Room: If you haven’t used it since the last Big E season, you probably don’t need it in Boston.
Utilize Junk Removal: Don’t pay to move items that are destined for the trash. Our hauling and junk removal services can help you clear out the basement or garage before the truck arrives.
Measure Your New Space: Older Boston buildings often have narrow hallways and “creative” floor plans. Make sure that oversized sectional will actually fit through the door.

2. Master the Logistics of the “Mass Pike”

The drive from Springfield to Boston is a straight shot down I-90, but timing is everything.

Avoid Rush Hour: If possible, schedule your transit to avoid entering the Boston metro area between 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM or 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
Hire Professional Manpower: Long-distance moves require a different level of endurance. Our long-distance moving company specializes in these treks, ensuring your driver is experienced with heavy traffic and tight city turns.
Secure Moving Permits: In Boston, you can’t just “pull up” to the curb. Most neighborhoods require a Moving Truck Parking Permit from the city to reserve a spot. Check the City of Boston website at least two weeks in advance.

3. The Packing Strategy

Packing for a 90-mile move is still a long-distance endeavor. Items will be on a truck for a significant amount of time and subject to the bumps of city streets.

Use Professional Grade Materials: Invest in sturdy boxes and bubble wrap. If the thought of tape and cardboard makes you tired, consider our professional packing services. We can pack your entire Springfield home in a fraction of the time it takes to do it yourself.
Label by Room AND Priority: Mark boxes that contain essentials like coffee makers, chargers, and basic tools as “Open First.”
Prepare for “Stairs”: If you are moving into a third-floor walk-up in the North End, pack smaller, more manageable boxes rather than over-stuffing large ones.

4. Administrative “Must-Dos”

When relocating from Springfield to Boston, your address isn’t the only thing changing.

Transfer Utilities: Coordinate the shut-off for your Springfield utilities for the day after you leave, and ensure your Boston electricity and internet are active the day before you arrive.
Update Your Resident Status: This includes your voter registration, car insurance (rates often change when moving to the city), and your USPS change of address.
Notify Your Springfield Neighbors: Especially if you live in a tight-knit community or an apartment complex, let them know when the residential moving truck will be blocking the driveway.

5. Prepare Your “Day-Of” Essentials Bag

Once the truck is loaded and you’re officially relocating from Springfield to Boston, you won’t want to dig through 50 boxes to find your toothbrush. Pack a separate suitcase with:

Important documents (lease, ID, moving contract).
Change of clothes and basic toiletries.
Pet essentials (food, leash, bowls).
A small toolkit and a flashlight.
Cash for tolls and tipping your movers.

Why Choose Four Guys and a Truck for Your Move East?

We’ve been serving Western Massachusetts for over 15 years, and we know the route to Boston like the back of our hand. We aren’t a giant, faceless corporation; we are a local team that values your peace of mind. Whether you need full-service transport or just help loading and unloading your rental, we’ve got your back.

Relocating from Springfield to Boston is a major life step—let us handle the heavy lifting so you can enjoy the first sunset over the Charles River.

Ready to get started? Click here for a FREE moving estimate or call us at (413) 596-8442.