How to Move Out of Apartment Without a Car

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.

This saying resonates deeply when thinking about moving, especially when you are doing it without a car.

Moving out of an apartment can be stressful, but imagine doing it without your own car.

It sounds challenging, right?

But, in cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, nearly 45% of households don't own a car​.

So, moving without a car is not as rare as it seems.

Let's face it: moving can be overwhelming, even under the best circumstances.

According to a recent survey, one in five Americans reports moving as one of the most stressful events in their lives. 

But here’s the silver lining: with a bit of planning and some creativity, it’s entirely possible to move out of your apartment efficiently without a car.

In the U.S., the average person moves 11 times in their lifetime​

It means that it doesn't matter if you are a college student, a young professional, or someone moving to a different state; getting to know the art of car-free moving is a valuable skill.

And guess what? It's not just about survival—it's about doing it with minimal stress and cost.

With this guide, we show you exactly how to do it and also share the cheapest ways to move without a car. 

Reasons Behind Moving Out of an Apartment Without a Car

Moving out of an apartment without a car might sound unusual, but there are plenty of valid reasons people choose or are forced to do so.

Urban Living and Convenience

Many city dwellers, especially in places like New York, Boston, and San Francisco, prefer not to own a car because of the excellent public transportation options.

When it comes time to move, they rely on public transit or moving companies instead.

Cost-Saving Measures

We all know that owning and maintaining a vehicle is expensive.

Insurance, gas, parking, and maintenance can add up really quickly.

Moving without a car is a natural extension for those looking to save money. 

Environmental Considerations

With a growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints, many people go for car-free living.

When moving, they stick to this eco-friendly approach by using sustainable alternatives like cargo bikes or shared moving services. 

Temporary or Short-Distance Moves

If someone is moving within the same city or just a few blocks away, using a car may not be necessary.

For short moves, it’s easier and cheaper to use local transport options. 

No Access to a Vehicle

Some individuals simply don’t have access to a car due to budget constraints.

In these cases, they must find alternative moving methods like renting a van for the day or a labor-only moving service​.

How to Move Out of Apartment Without a Car

Step 1: Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Move

The earlier you start, the more smooth your move will be.

Create a checklist that outlines what needs to be done each week leading up to the move.

Planning ahead allows you to explore the cheapest ways to move without a car. 

Step 2: Downsizing and Decluttering

Before packing, assess what you need versus what you can part with.

Moving is a perfect time to declutter. The less you have, the easier and cheaper your move will be.

Sell, donate, or discard items that are no longer necessary.

Host a garage sale or use online platforms, as they can help you minimize belongings and even earn some extra cash.

Step 3: Packing Smart

When you don’t have a car, packing efficiently is crucial.

Use Sturdy Boxes: Invest in durable, stackable boxes to keep everything secure during the move.

Label Everything: Label everything properly according to the content and the destination room. This will make unpacking easier.

Start Early: Packing gradually over several weeks reduces stress and allows you to select affordable transportation options.

Step 4: Choose the Right Moving Method

There are multiple ways to move without a car, and your choice depends on distance, budget, and convenience. 

Public Transportation

Public transportation can be an effective solution for small moves within the city.

Using buses or subways can help you move boxes and bags if they are manageable.

Rideshare Services

Platforms like Uber and Lyft offer options for larger vehicles that can be booked to transport your belongings.

These services are excellent for short-distance moves, and you can schedule multiple trips if needed. 

Bike Rentals and Cargo Bikes

You can rent a cargo bike if you are moving a short distance.

It is an eco-friendly and economical solution.

Cargo bikes are designed for heavy loads and allow you to move without worrying about traffic. 

Rent a Truck or Van

This might not be entirely car-free, but renting a truck for a day is a reliable option too.

This solution is particularly suitable for long-distance or out-of-state moves.

The added advantage is that you get to move on your schedule and have more control over the process​. 

Step 5: Shipping and Delivery Services

Shipping services are ideal if you’re moving long-distance and want to avoid driving a rental truck.

However, it’s essential to account for the time it takes for delivery.

There may be delays if you are one of several stops on their route​. 

Step 6: Use the Sharing Economy

The rise of the sharing economy has made moving without a car easier.

Services like Dolly connects you with local truck owners and movers who can help you transport your items for a fraction of traditional moving company costs.

This option is great for city residents looking for a quick, affordable solution​. 

Step 7: Hiring Professional Movers

For stress-free moving without a car experience, hiring professional movers might be the way to go.

There are several companies that specialize in car-free moves and can handle everything from packing to transportation.

While this option is more expensive, it saves time and physical effort. 

Step 8: Portable Moving Containers

Portable containers are another effective solution.

These containers are dropped off at your current location.

You load them at your convenience, and they are picked up and delivered to your new home.

This method is particularly useful for small apartments and allows you to take your time with packing. 

​Additional Tips for a Smooth Move

Ask Friends for Help: Coordinate with friends and family, as it can make moving much more manageable.

Pack an Essentials Box: Prepare a box with daily necessities like toiletries, clothes, and basic kitchen items so you have what you need immediately upon arrival. 

Use Moving Apps: Some apps connect you with local help for loading and unloading.

These services can save you money while giving you the support you need on a moving day.

How Much Does It Cost to Move Out of an Apartment Without a Car?

When moving out of an apartment without a car, the costs can vary significantly on several variables and the type of services you decide to use.

Let’s break down every cost component so you know exactly what to expect.

 Packing Supplies

Even without a car, you still need to get your belongings ready for the move. 

This can total up to $50-$150 depending on how much you have and whether you can source boxes for free. 

Transportation Costs

Moving without a car means you’ll need to find alternative ways to transport your stuff.

Shipping Services

For those who prefer not to use rental trucks, shipping services can be a convenient option. 

 Labor Costs

Sometimes, moving without a car means relying on additional help to load, unload, and transport your belongings. 

 Storage Costs (if needed)

If there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates, you might need temporary storage. 

 Total Cost Breakdown: What to Expect

When you add up all these costs, here’s a summary of what you might spend: