Preparing a parking spot for the moving truck is one of the most important steps of your moving preparation after hiring a professional Los Angeles moving company. Securing proper parking will make your entire moving day run smoothly, save you a significant amount of time, and help
you avoid expensive parking tickets or unexpected delays. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to reserve a parking spot for a moving truck, explain the different rules in Los Angeles, and share helpful, practical tips to make sure you have the right parking solution for your specific building, street, or neighborhood.
Why Should You Reserve a Parking Spot for a Moving Truck in Los Angeles?
Here are the main reasons why securing parking is essential for a smooth and stress-free move:
• Prevent major moving-day problems
Moving trucks are large and can’t fit into regular car-size spaces. Without a reserved spot, movers may be forced to double-park or stop in restricted zones, creating delays and frustration for everyone around you.
• Let movers focus on the job, not the truck
When a parking spot is prepared in advance, the crew can park immediately and start working. They won’t need to constantly move the truck to avoid blocking neighbors or responding to complaints.
• Avoid expensive parking tickets
Los Angeles truck parking tickets usually cost $60–$90, and California moving companies generally require customers to cover these fines. Reserving a spot eliminates this risk entirely.
• Save valuable time and money
Searching for legal parking in LA can add unnecessary time to your final bill. A reserved spot ensures the truck is close to your home, reduces walking distance, and speeds up loading and unloading.
• Reduce traffic issues and neighborhood disruption
Double-parking a moving truck can block an entire traffic lane, especially during peak hours. Preparing a legal space keeps traffic flowing and makes your move safer for everyone.
By understanding how to reserve a parking spot for a moving truck, you can avoid unnecessary stress and create a smoother, faster, and more efficient moving experience.
When Should You Reserve a Parking Spot for a Moving Truck?
Not every Los Angeles move requires reserving a parking spot for a moving truck. If you live in a quiet residential neighborhood with wide streets, low traffic, and plenty of available parking, movers can usually park without any issues. However, if you’re located in busy or high-density areas such as Downtown Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Downtown Long Beach, Hollywood, hillside neighborhoods, or any area with limited parking, heavy traffic, narrow streets, or strict parking regulations, reserving a dedicated spot becomes essential for a smooth moving day.
Moving to the hills? Check out our guide on what you should know when moving to a hillside area
In these crowded LA neighborhoods, open parking is unpredictable. Securing a reserved space ensures the moving truck can park as close as possible to your home, prevents unnecessary delays, and allows the movers to work efficiently without driving around the block or double-parking. This simple step saves time, reduces stress, avoids traffic disruption, and keeps your move organized from start to finish.
Does your building require a Certificate of Insurance for moving? Check our full guide on what you need and how to get a Certificate of Insurance for moving
Should You Reserve a Parking Spot for the Moving Truck, or Can the Moving Company Do It?
If your move requires a Temporary No-Parking Permit or any type of reserved street parking, your moving company can usually handle the permit process on your behalf. Many Los Angeles moving companies are familiar with local parking rules and can assist with submitting the request, placing temporary signs, or guiding you through the proper steps. However, an additional fee may apply depending on the complexity of the permit and the city you live in. It’s always a good idea to contact your moving provider directly to confirm whether they offer this service and to understand the cost and requirements involved.
Tips on How to Reserve a Parking Spot for a Moving Truck
Here are the most practical ways to secure parking for your moving truck in Los Angeles:
• Check with your building management for a loading dock or loading zone
If you live in a newer residential community or a luxury building, ask your management office if they offer a designated loading dock or loading zone. Most high-rise properties in Downtown Los Angeles, Downtown Long Beach, Westwood, and Century City provide organized loading areas where a moving truck can park safely and legally.
• Block two parking spaces with your cars the night before
If you live in an older or historical two-story building without a parking garage, the easiest method is to use your own cars to reserve two street parking spaces. Park them one day before your move, and simply move your cars when the truck arrives. This is a very common and effective solution in neighborhoods such as Hollywood, Glendale, and Burbank.
• Ask neighbors for help securing a spot
Talking with your neighbors can make the process much easier. Many people are happy to help block a space for a moving truck, especially if parking is tight in your area. This approach is often used in older Los Angeles communities where parking availability can be unpredictable.
• Look for safe alley parking when available
In Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and other South Bay areas, many homes have alleys behind the property. These alleys sometimes allow space for a moving truck to park. Even if you see “No Parking” signs, check carefully—some alleys still allow temporary loading as long as the truck is not blocking garages or through-traffic.
Moving to South bay area? Check out our complete guide about Santa Monica
• Consider getting a Temporary No-Parking Permit
The most common and reliable option is to request a Temporary No-Parking Permit for your moving day. This ensures a guaranteed space without breaking any parking rules. You can apply through your city or use a licensed third-party service such as a permit puller. This method is ideal for busy urban areas or streets with strict parking enforcement.
How to Get a Temporary No-Parking Permit for a Moving Truck in 2025
Make sure to contact your city at least 72 hours before your move. Be ready to provide proof of residency, your exact move date and time, and the approximate truck size (most moving trucks are between 20–26 feet long). Keep in mind that permit prices can change, always contact your city directly to confirm the most accurate and up-to-date cost before applying.
| City / Service | Official Website | Average Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Puller (Most Cities) | movingpermits.com | Starts at $125 |
| Los Angeles | ladotparking.org | Around $10 |
| West Hollywood | weho.org – Moving Permits |
$10 – $60 |
| Beverly Hills | beverlyhills.org – Moving Van Parking |
$16 – $40 |
| Santa Monica | santamonica.gov – Temporary No Parking Sign |
Around $88 |
| Long Beach | longbeach.gov – Oversized Vehicle Permit | Free for residents |
| Pasadena | cityofpasadena.net – Moving Vehicle Permit |
About $82 |
What Happens If You Don’t Reserve a Parking Spot?
Skipping parking preparation might feel like a small detail, but on moving day it can create some of the biggest problems. If the truck can’t park close to your home, movers may be forced to circle the block, double-park, or stop in a restricted area. All of this wastes time, increases your final bill, and adds stress before the first box is even moved.
When parking is not reserved, movers often have to carry furniture and boxes a much longer distance. This slows down the job, makes handling heavy items more difficult, and can increase the risk of damage or injury. In busy Los Angeles neighborhoods, double-parking can also block traffic, upset neighbors, or attract attention from parking enforcement.
There is also a very real financial risk. If the truck ends up in a temporary “no parking” zone, in front of a driveway, or too close to a corner, you can easily receive a parking ticket. In California, customers are usually responsible for any parking fines during the move, so a simple lack of preparation can turn into an unnecessary expense. Taking the time to reserve a safe, legal parking spot helps you avoid all of these problems at once.
Basic Parking Rules in Los Angeles You Should Know Before Moving
Before you decide how to reserve a parking spot for a moving truck, it helps to understand a few basic Los Angeles parking rules. While details can vary by city and neighborhood, these general guidelines can keep you out of trouble and help you choose the safest place for the truck.
- Red curbs usually mean no stopping, standing, or parking at any time. A moving truck cannot load or unload there.
- White curbs are typically short-term passenger loading zones. They are not designed for a large moving truck to sit for hours.
- Yellow curbs are often commercial loading zones. In some areas, a moving truck can use them during posted hours, but time limits may apply and enforcement can be strict.
- Blue curbs are reserved for vehicles with disabled parking placards only and must never be used for moving trucks.
- Many residential streets have permit-only parking, street cleaning hours, or time limits. Signs can change from block to block, so always read the posted regulations carefully.
- Alleys may allow temporary loading in some cities, but the truck must not block garages, dumpsters, or through-traffic. Always check local rules before relying on alley parking.
Because rules and enforcement vary between Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Long Beach, and other nearby cities, it’s important to double-check signs on your street and confirm anything you’re unsure about with your city or your moving company.
Parking Preparation Checklist for Your Moving Day
Use this simple checklist when planning how to reserve a parking spot for a moving truck:
- Confirm whether your building has a loading dock, loading zone, or dedicated moving area.
- Ask your property manager or HOA if you need to book an elevator time or reserve a specific loading window.
- Walk your street a few days before the move and identify the safest and closest possible spot for the truck.
- If needed, use your own cars to hold two regular parking spaces the night before your move, then move them when the truck arrives.
- Talk with neighbors in advance to let them know about your moving day and ask for help keeping a space open if parking is tight.
- Check all street signs for time limits, permit requirements, street cleaning hours, and any “No Parking” or “Tow-Away” zones.
- Decide whether you need a Temporary No-Parking Permit based on your neighborhood, traffic, and local enforcement.
- Apply for the permit with your city or through a permit puller service at least 72 hours before your move.
- Confirm the exact address, side of the street, and length of space the truck will need (for most moves, a 20–26 foot truck).
- The day before your move, place any allowed temporary signs or cones according to your city’s instructions.
- On moving day, make sure the reserved space is clear before the truck arrives and communicate the parking plan to your movers.
Following this checklist will help you avoid last-minute surprises and keep your move on schedule.
Planning your move in Los Angeles? Check out our complete LA Moving Checklist for everything you need to know.
Frequently Asked Questions – Parking for Moving Trucks in Los Angeles and LA County
Do I need a permit to reserve a parking spot for a moving truck in Los Angeles?
In many busy areas of Los Angeles and nearby cities, a Temporary No-Parking Permit is strongly recommended and sometimes required, especially in permit zones, commercial districts, or high-density neighborhoods. On quieter residential streets with plenty of open parking, a permit may not be necessary, but you should always read the posted signs and check with your city if you are unsure.
How far in advance should I apply for a Temporary No-Parking Permit?
It is best to apply at least 72 hours before your move, and earlier if possible. Some cities require several business days to process a request and may have specific rules about when signs must be posted on the street. Applying early gives you time to resolve any issues and make sure your permit is valid for your exact move date, time, and location.
Can a moving truck park in a yellow loading zone in Los Angeles?
Yellow curbs are typically commercial loading zones, and in some locations a moving truck may be allowed to load there during posted hours. However, time limits and enforcement can be strict, and not every yellow zone is suitable for long moves. Always check the sign next to the curb and remember that a Temporary No-Parking Permit or reserved space is usually a safer option for a full moving job.
What happens if someone parks in my reserved moving truck spot?
If you have an approved Temporary No-Parking Permit and required signs are posted correctly, your city may be able to ticket or tow vehicles that block the reserved space. Enforcement depends on the city and the specific permit rules, so it is important to follow all instructions and keep a copy of your permit handy. If the space is blocked temporarily, movers may need to park as close as possible and adjust the plan until the spot is cleared.
How close should the moving truck be parked to my home?
The closer the truck can park, the better. Shorter walking distance means faster loading and unloading, less strain on the movers, and a lower chance of damage or delays. When planning how to reserve a parking spot for a moving truck, try to secure at least two regular car spaces directly in front of or as close as possible to your building entrance, driveway, or alley access.
Who is responsible for parking tickets during a move in California?
In most cases, moving companies in California state in their policies that the customer is responsible for all parking tickets, citations, or fines that occur during the move. That is why reserving a legal, safe parking spot and obtaining any required permits is so important. Proper planning helps you avoid unexpected costs and keeps the move running smoothly.
Do I still need a permit if I live on a quiet residential street?
On quiet residential streets with wide roads and plenty of open parking, you may not need a formal permit. However, you should still check for street cleaning hours, time limits, and any “Permit Only” or “No Parking” signs. Even in calm areas, it is smart to plan ahead, talk with neighbors, and use your vehicles to hold a space so the moving truck can park close to your home without causing any issues.
Conclusion
If you need safe and reliable parking for moving trucks in Los Angeles, SQ Moving Company is here to help. Our team understands LA’s complex parking rules, neighborhood restrictions, and permit requirements, and we can guide you through the process from start to finish. Whether you’re moving from a high-rise downtown, a hillside property, or a residential home with limited parking, we’ll help you secure the right spot and obtain any necessary Temporary No-Parking Permits to keep your move smooth and stress-free.
Contact SQ Moving Company today for professional moving services—and let us assist you with planning the perfect parking setup for your moving day. We’re always happy to help make your relocation simple, efficient, and worry-free.
