Every city has its quirks, and Boston’s biggest one might just be Moving Day.
If you’re planning to rent in Boston, you’ll want to circle Sept. 1 on your calendar—not because it’s a holiday, but because it’s when the city transforms into a chaotic ballet of moving trucks, discarded furniture, and overwhelmed renters. Here’s everything you need to know to survive (and maybe even enjoy) Boston’s infamous Moving Day.
Table of Contents
- What Is Boston’s “Moving Day?”
- What to Expect on Sept. 1
- Where to Score Free Furniture
- How to Prepare for Boston Moving Day
- Tips for a Smooth Move-In
- Final Thoughts: Embrace the Chaos
What Is Boston’s “Moving Day?”
In Boston, Moving Day takes place annually on Sept. 1. Also known as “Allston Christmas,” this unofficial holiday marks the turnover of leases in Boston.
Why Sept. 1?
Sept. 1 is when a massive chunk of Boston’s rental leases begin and end. This tradition is rooted in the city’s large student population, with thousands of college students returning to the city each fall. Landlords got used to aligning lease terms with the academic calendar, and the pattern stuck.
Today, an estimated 70% of leases turn over on Sept. 1, according to the City of Boston.
The origins of Allston Christmas
According to the City of Boston, the earliest mention of Boston’s moving day was in the Sept. 1, 1899 issue of the Boston Globe, making the tradition over a century old.
The nickname “Allston Christmas” comes from the neighborhood of Allston, where streets fill with discarded furniture as people move out. Scavengers pick through these piles looking for usable items—everything from futons to flatscreen TVs. It’s a mix of chaos and opportunity, and it’s become part of the city’s oddball charm.
What to Expect on Sept. 1
The key to a smooth(ish) Moving Day is knowing what to expect. Here’s what you should know before Sept. 1.
Sidewalk chaos and trash piles
Expect sidewalks to be stacked with mattresses, broken bookshelves, and trash bags bursting at the seams. The city’s sanitation department tries to keep up, but the sheer volume means streets can stay messy for days.
Parking nightmares and truck shortages
Secure a box truck and a parking permit as you know you’re moving in Boston, because they go quickly. Parking permits are required in most neighborhoods, and without one, you risk a ticket or tow.
Free furniture finds
There’s one major upside to all this chaos: free furniture. You’ll see everything from desks and kitchen chairs to microwaves and toaster ovens discarded on sidewalks for scavengers to grab. Just proceed with caution (and maybe some cleaning supplies).
Where to Score Free Furniture
While Moving Day is city-wide, some areas are more concentrated with free stuff.
Best areas for “Allston Christmas” finds
Student-heavy neighborhoods like Allston, Brighton, Fenway, and Back Bay offer the best chance to score freebies. Keep an eye out for signs marked “FREE” and people unloading moving trucks. Make sure you double check that furniture is actually up for grabs and isn’t waiting to be moved into an apartment.
Tips for safe furniture picking
Always inspect for bedbugs, mold, or damage. Don’t take anything upholstered unless it looks brand new. Bring gloves, a trash grabber, a flashlight, disinfecting wipes, and a friend to help you lift things!
Curb alert communities
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist’s “Free” section, and neighborhood Buy Nothing groups are great for finding curb alerts without the guessing game.
How to Prepare for Boston Moving Day
Boston Moving Day isn’t for the weak, so plan far in advance to avoid issues.
Book a truck or movers months ahead
Book a rental truck and movers as soon as you know you’re moving. Trucks and movers (understandably) get snatched up months in advance, so book yours at least six weeks ahead to get a reasonable price and time slot.
Get a parking permit early
A parking permit for your moving truck isn’t required, but it can take a lot of stress out of the day. Apply for a parking permit through the City of Boston’s website and avoid the mad dash for limited spots.
Coordinate trash pickup and donation services
Plan ahead to dispose of items responsibly. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity may offer donation pickups if scheduled early.
Tips for a Smooth Move-In
Learn from previous movers’ mistakes to navigate moving day on Boston’s historic streets and old buildings.
Don’t get “Storrowed”
Storrow Drive along the Charles River has notoriously low overpasses, and box trucks get wedged under them every year. If you’re driving a rental truck, stick to major truck routes and avoid Storrow Drive at all costs.
Pack for narrow hallways and tight walk-ups
Boston walk-ups are no joke. Narrow staircases, steep steps, and tight corners are the norm. Pack smart, label boxes, and consider hiring pros used to these conditions.
Prep for the weather
Boston weather in early September is unpredictable. It could be hot and humid or pouring rain—or both. Protect your belongings and dress accordingly.
Consider moving early or late
If your lease allows, try to move a few days before or after Sept. 1. You’ll avoid the traffic and may get better rates on rental trucks and movers.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Chaos
Plan early, expect mess, and keep your sense of humor intact. Boston Moving Day is a rite of passage—survive it once, and you’ll never forget it.
Why some locals love it
Believe it or not, many Bostonians love Moving Day. It’s a chance to snag free stuff, meet new neighbors, and feel the energy of a city in motion.
Avoiding madness next year
If the experience isn’t for you, consider negotiating a lease that starts in the spring or winter. Off-season rentals are less competitive and often come with move-in specials.
Want to skip the scramble? Search for a Boston rental now and lock in your next place before the chaos begins next year.
