Moving Between Queens and Brooklyn: The BQE, New Truck Routes and Building Types
Moving between Queens and Brooklyn? Which roads moving trucks can use, the October 2026 truck route changes near Maspeth and Ridgewood, and building tips.
Updated October 11, 2026
A move from Astoria, Long Island City or anywhere in Queens to Jersey City, Hoboken, Fort Lee or Bayonne crosses a state line. That changes the paperwork, and the river crossings set limits for the truck. Here is what to know before you book.
It is an interstate move
Because it crosses from New York into New Jersey, a Queens to New Jersey move falls under federal rules for household goods movers. The mover needs a U.S. DOT number; ours is U.S. DOT 967970. Before the move you should receive FMCSA’s booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and the Ready to Move? brochure, plus a written estimate. With a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot make you pay more than 110 percent of the estimate at delivery; the rest can be billed later. For moves within New Jersey we hold New Jersey public mover license NJPM 000930.
Which crossing fits the truck
The Port Authority truckers guide (January 2026) lists these height limits: George Washington Bridge 13 feet 6 inches on both levels, Lincoln Tunnel 13 feet, Holland Tunnel 12 feet 6 inches, and Goethals Bridge, Outerbridge Crossing and Bayonne Bridge 14 feet. Its advice is simple: if you are not sure of your vehicle height, use a bridge. All Port Authority crossings are cashless. From Queens, the crew picks the route by your destination, the truck size and traffic: across the RFK Bridge and the Bronx to the George Washington Bridge, through Manhattan to a tunnel, or by the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and Staten Island to the southern crossings.
Leave propane and fuel off the truck
The Port Authority does not allow propane through the Lincoln or Holland tunnels or across the lower level of the George Washington Bridge, and MTA does not allow any hazardous materials in the Queens Midtown Tunnel. Plan to give away or properly dispose of grill propane tanks, gasoline, paint thinner and similar items before moving day, and empty fuel from lawn equipment.
After you arrive: the New Jersey MVC deadline
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission says new residents must transfer an out-of-state driver license and vehicle title and registration within 60 days of the move, or before the current license and registration expire, whichever comes first. The license transfer needs an appointment and documents that meet the 6 Points of ID rule, so book it early.
A short checklist
Get both buildings’ move rules and COI samples a week before. Measure large furniture and doors at the new place. Keep important papers, medicine and valuables with you. Update your address with your bank, employer and insurance, and book the MVC appointment as soon as you have proof of your New Jersey address.
Common questions
Is a move from Queens to New Jersey an interstate move?
Yes. It crosses a state line, so federal household goods rules apply and the mover needs a U.S. DOT number.
Can a moving truck use the Holland Tunnel?
Only under 12 feet 6 inches tall (Port Authority limit). The Lincoln Tunnel limit is 13 feet; bigger trucks use a bridge.
How long do I have to get a New Jersey driver license?
NJ MVC says within 60 days of the move or before your current license expires, whichever comes first. Vehicle title and registration follow the same 60 days.
Do you also move people within New Jersey?
Yes. Moves within New Jersey are covered by our New Jersey public mover license NJPM 000930.
Get your written estimate
Call (718) 782-0272 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. Astoria Queens Movers is part of A & A Alliance Moving Inc, a family business since 1999; licenses and history are on our company facts page.
Rules, tolls and city services change. The facts on this page come from the official sources listed below (checked October 11, 2026); confirm on the linked page before you book.
Official sources
- FMCSA: Your rights and responsibilities when you move
- FMCSA: Ready to Move? brochure (PDF)
- FMCSA: Estimating charges (binding and non-binding estimates)
- Port Authority of NY & NJ: Truckers guide 2026 (PDF)
- MTA Bridges and Tunnels: trucks and commercial vehicles
- NJ MVC: Moving to New Jersey
- FMCSA SAFER: U.S. DOT 967970 record
