Updated October 10, 2026
On a map, the parkways look like the fastest way across Long Island. For a moving truck they are off limits, and that changes the route, the timing and sometimes the estimate. Here is what the rules say and how to plan around them.
What the law says
New York State bans commercial vehicles and tractor trailers on its parkways. NYSDOT explains why: the parkways were built for cars, and low stone bridges on the system have posted clearances as low as 6 feet 11 inches. On Long Island the State Police list the Meadowbrook State Parkway, the Northern State Parkway and the Southern State Parkway among the parkways closed to commercial vehicles. In Queens, NYC DOT also closes the Cross Island, Belt and most of the Grand Central Parkway to commercial vehicles.
What it means for your move
A moving truck runs on the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and other truck-legal roads, then local streets to your door. If your home is closest to a parkway exit, the truck may take a longer way around. When you compare estimates, a mover who plans the truck route properly is giving you a realistic time, not a slow one.
If you rent a truck yourself
The rule is about commercial vehicles. Check how your rental truck is registered and what the rental company tells you; when in doubt, stay off the parkways. A low bridge strike can mean damage, injury, fines and towing.
Plan the timing
The LIE carries a lot of traffic at rush hours. A crew that starts loading early often avoids the worst of it. For moves between Long Island and New York City, the timing of the bridge or tunnel matters as much as the distance.
Moves between Nassau, Suffolk and the City
Moves that stay inside New York State are licensed by NYSDOT; our number is 34875. Moves to other states, such as New Jersey or Connecticut, need a federal license: ours is U.S. DOT No. 967970, MC-432549.
Common questions
Can a moving truck drive on the Northern State Parkway?
No. New York State bans commercial vehicles on its parkways, and the State Police list the Northern State among them.
Why are trucks banned from Long Island parkways?
The parkways were built for cars, and NYSDOT says some stone bridges have clearances as low as 6 feet 11 inches.
Which road does a moving truck use across Long Island?
Usually the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and other truck-legal roads, then local streets.
Does the parkway ban apply to rental trucks?
It applies to commercial vehicles. Check your rental truck registration and the rental company rules, and stay off the parkways when unsure.
Get your written estimate
Call (516) 246-5901 or send the quote form on our home page with both addresses, the floors, elevator or stairs, your date and your main items. You get a written estimate before moving day. Moving Service By Two Guys is part of A & A Alliance Moving Inc, a family business since 1999; licences and history are on our company facts page.
Rules and city services change. We checked the official links on this page on October 10, 2026; confirm on the linked page before you book.
Official sources
- NYSDOT: Parkway restrictions brochure
- New York State Police: commercial vehicle enforcement on parkways
- NYC DOT: Parkway truck restrictions