How to Move Without a Car

Not all those who wander are lost… some are just trying to move apartments without a damn car.

You are moving. New apartment. New city. Maybe even a whole new state. And you don’t have a car. Just you, your stuff, and a question: “How to move with a car?”.

First of all, you’re not the only one. Over 31 million people move every year in the U.S., and not all of them are moving vans and trailers.

In fact, millions of Americans, especially in walkable cities, figure out how to move without a car, and they do it without breaking the bank and their backs.

So if you're thinking, "How are you going to pull this off?" this guide has everything you’ve been Googling.

Whether you're heading across the city or relocating a few states over, you’ll get the breakdown on everything from how to move by bus to how to use public transport for your move.

So, keep reading and by the end, you'll know exactly how to move without a vehicle.

What Could Be The Reasons That You Have To Move Without A Car

Nobody wakes up and thinks, “You know what sounds fun? Moving all my stuff without a car.” There are actually a bunch of legit reasons why you might end up planning a move without a car.

Let’s discuss why people end up figuring out how to move without a car in the first place:

You Don’t Own a Car

This one is obvious, but worth mentioning. Not everyone has a car sitting in the driveway, and that’s more common than you’d think, especially in cities. Numerous people in places like New York, San Francisco, and even parts of Chicago live car-free every day and still manage to get around.

You’re on a Budget

Moving is already expensive. So renting a big U-Haul or hiring movers might just not be in your budget. When you’re strapped for cash, you need to hustle smart.

You’re Moving Within a City

A car might actually be more of a pain than a help when you’re moving just a few blocks or neighborhoods over. That’s why many people go for a trolley-based urban relocation these days.

You're Going Green

Maybe you’re trying to live more sustainably. Ditching the car can be part of that. If you’re leaning into an eco-conscious lifestyle, then figuring out how to move via public transport might feel like the right path.

You’re Moving Long-Distance

You might have a car, but you’re not using it for the move because it’s cheaper or easier to fly. In that case, shipping your stuff separately or using a no-car move becomes your best option.

 

No car? No problem. Check out our budget-friendly moving tips for long distance moves and learn how to move smart without burning cash.

Step-by-Step Guide to Moving Without a Car

So, you're planning a move but don't have a car. That might feel like a huge obstacle at first—but the truth is, it’s completely manageable. You just need a plan that works with the resources you do have.

Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you understand exactly how to move without a car.

Step 1: Start by Decluttering

The fewer things you have, the easier your move will be, especially if you don't have a vehicle to transport them. Start early and go through your belongings with a critical eye. If you haven't used it in a year, consider whether you really need to take it with you.

• Sell, donate, or recycle anything you no longer need

• Focus on essentials that are portable and easy to carry

• Try to limit the number of large or heavy items, especially if you plan to use public transport or make multiple trips on foot

Step 2: Organize and Pack Smart

Now that you’ve narrowed things down, pack efficiently. How you pack matters a lot when you're moving without a car.

• Use backpacks, rolling suitcases, duffel bags, and reusable grocery bags

• Bins with handles work well, especially if you're moving short distances

• Label everything clearly so it’s easy to find when you unpack

• Pack heavier items in smaller bags to avoid back strain

Step 3: Gather the Right Equipment

Without a car, you’ll need to rely more on simple tools that help you move your belongings safely and efficiently.

Here are a few essentials:

Step 4: Decide How You’ll Transport Your Belongings

You have several options for actually getting your stuff from point A to point B without needing your own vehicle.

Public Transit

If you're moving a small load locally, buses, trains, or subways can be a reliable option.

• Plan your route in advance and check schedules
• Travel during non-peak hours to avoid crowds
• Keep items contained, easy to carry, and within size limits

Rideshare or Taxis

Apps like Uber and Lyft can help you move medium-sized loads, especially if you book a larger vehicle option.

• Consider splitting trips if you have multiple loads
• Stack your items smartly to maximize space
• Have someone assist if you need help loading/unloading

Shipping or Delivery Services

If you're moving a longer distance or can’t carry everything on your own:

• Use shipping services for boxes or medium items
• Travel with a backpack or small carry-on for personal needs

• This method is great for handling moving essentials without a vehicle

Portable Storage or Moving Containers

These are ideal if you have more to move but can’t drive a rental truck.

• The container is delivered to your location
• You pack it at your own pace
• It’s picked up and transported to your new place for you

Step 5: Create a Timeline for the Move

Without a car, your move might require more trips or coordination—so having a clear plan helps a lot.

• Set realistic goals for each day
• Give yourself enough time between packing, hauling, and settling in
• Account for delays in public transport or rideshare availability
• Include breaks—moving can be physically demanding

Keeping everything organized will make your no-car move checklist more manageable and reduce the chance of last-minute scrambling.

Step 6: Ask for Help if You Need It

Moving doesn’t have to be a solo project. If you have friends or family nearby, ask them to lend a hand.

• A second set of hands can help carry heavy items
• If someone has a vehicle, even one trip can make a big difference
• Offering lunch or a small thank-you gesture goes a long way

Step 7: Final Checks Before You Leave

Once everything is packed and transported:

• Do a last walkthrough of your old place
• Make sure nothing is left behind in closets or drawers
• Return any borrowed items, keys, or access cards
• Clean up if needed—especially if you're renting

At this point, you’ve done it. You’ve handled a move without needing to drive, rent a truck, or stress over logistics. And you’ve probably learned that moving without a vehicle is practical.

 

Thinking of crossing states without wheels? Before you start your move, check our 'How to Move to Another State' Guide and plan accordingly.

Special Scenarios & How to Handle Them

Not every move is the same. Sometimes it’s just you and a few bags. Other times, it’s you, your pet, your kids, or your entire dorm room.

And when you're figuring out how to move without a car, these extra variables can make things feel a little more complicated.

College or Dorm Move

Moving in or out of a dorm? These moves are usually lighter and more manageable, especially without a car.

Here’s how to handle it:

• Pack only essentials: Clothes, bedding, small electronics, and school supplies

• Ship what you can ahead of time: Things like books, snacks, or dorm decor can be sent directly to your dorm or apartment

• Use a large suitcase or two for what you carry with you—perfect for transit or rideshare
• Don’t forget essentials like a power strip, shower shoes, and snacks for move-in day

Moving with Pets

Pets add another layer to your move, but it’s still manageable without a car. Whether it’s a cat in a carrier or a dog who thinks this is a new adventure, here’s what you need to do:

• Use a pet carrier or backpack that’s comfortable for your animal and allowed on public transit or rideshare

• Keep essentials close: Treats, a leash, water, waste bags, and a calming toy or blanket

• Check transit or rideshare pet policies ahead of time

• Avoid long, multiple trips if possible; move your pet last, when your new place is ready

Family Move (With Kids)

Kids don’t exactly make moving easier, but they do make it more rewarding when it’s done right.

If you're moving a family without a car, here’s how to stay sane and get it done:

• Pack early and in stages—kids’ items first, then shared household things
• Keep important things in one easy-to-reach bag: diapers, toys, snacks, wipes
• Use public transport, rideshare, or even a delivery service for bigger loads
• If you’re doing an urban relocation, consider baby-wearing or using a stroller for smaller kids

Long-Distance or Out-of-State Moves

Moving far without a car can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about working in parts. You don’t need to haul everything yourself. Here’s how:

• Ship boxes ahead of time to your new place or to a friend/family member who lives nearby
• Travel light: one suitcase or backpack with immediate needs
• Use portable storage services that pick up your packed containers and deliver them for you
• For apartments or rooms only: a well-organized suitcase and small parcel shipments may be all you need

 

You don’t need wheels when you’ve got experts. Check out our Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in the USA and let someone else do the heavy lifting (and the driving).

Last-Minute Move

Sometimes you don’t get the luxury of planning weeks ahead. If you’re scrambling to move out quickly without a car, keep it simple and efficient:

• Grab the essentials first: ID, chargers, work gear, meds
• Use what you already have—backpacks, grocery totes, suitcases
• Schedule a rideshare or borrow a friend’s car if possible
• Donate or give away bulky items to avoid last-minute logistics

Tips to Move Without a Car

Moving without a vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does take some thoughtful planning. With the right approach and a few smart adjustments, you can make the process easier, more efficient, and less stressful.

Pack the Way You Travel

When you don’t have a car, bulky moving boxes can actually get in the way. Instead, pack like you’re heading on a long trip. Use suitcases, duffel bags, large backpacks, and anything with wheels. These make carrying things much easier, especially if you’re using public transport or walking between locations.

Use What You Already Have

Before spending money on moving supplies, look around your home. Many common household items can double as packing tools. Rolling suitcases work great for clothes or books, while laundry baskets can carry bulkier, soft items. Grocery totes are perfect for kitchen supplies or toiletries.

Invest in a Cart or Dolly

If you’re moving on foot or using transit, a foldable cart or dolly can make your life much easier. These are especially useful for apartment-to-apartment moves in urban areas. You’ll be able to stack bins or bags and roll them to your new place without straining yourself.

Be Strategic with Timing

Moving without a vehicle means you'll be more exposed to weather, traffic, and public transit schedules. It helps to plan around those things. Try to move during the middle of the day when buses are less crowded and traffic is lighter.

Use Rideshare for the Big Stuff

You don’t need a car, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use one when it counts. For heavy or awkward items—like a small dresser or a box of fragile electronics—a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft can be a practical option.

Consider Shipping Your Items

For long-distance moves, shipping can save you the hassle of carrying everything with you. Box up the non-essentials and send them ahead to your new place. You’ll travel lighter and arrive without worrying about how you’re going to carry five boxes on a bus.

Keep an Essentials Bag Handy

One of the most helpful things you can do is pack a small, separate bag with your essentials. This includes your phone charger, keys, a change of clothes, snacks, water, and anything you’ll need right away in your new place. It’s a simple tip, but it saves you from digging through bags after a long day.

 

If packing feels like a chaos, then make it easy with our ultimate first night moving box checklist.

Recommended Resources

• How To Choose The Best Movers

• Moving During the Holidays

• How to Settle In Quickly After a Move

• AI-Powered Moving - How It Is Revolutionizing Relocation