Moving to or within the vibrant city of Los Angeles is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a challenging one, especially when it comes to navigating the infamous LA traffic. At Royal Moving & Storage, we’ve been helping Angelenos and newcomers alike tackle these challenges for over two decades.
While some people prefer to use a professional moving company to handle the hurdle of moving within LA, there is a group of people who decide to roll up the sleeves and move across the block themselves. In this blog we will share our top tips for navigating LA traffic during small moves like yours.
If you’re new here – LA traffic is notorious with locals complaining it takes forever to get around. Make sure to read by the end to find out when the peak traffic LA hours occur.
LA Traffic Is Always On The Way
Moving to Los Angeles can be a real eye-opener when it comes to traffic. The city is famous (or maybe infamous!) for its busy roads and highways. Every day, you’ll find lots of cars and congestion on the streets, especially at certain times. It’s super important to know when and where the traffic is the busiest to make your move go smoothly.
LA has a huge network of highways and regular streets, and they can all get pretty crowded. So, being prepared and knowing the best times to travel is key to avoiding the worst of the traffic jams. Keep reading, and we’ll give you all the tips you need to navigate LA’s roads like a pro!
When Does Traffic Die Down in LA?
The best times to navigate Los Angeles are typically outside of rush hours. Generally, traffic starts to ease around 9-10 AM in the morning and remains relatively calm until the early afternoon. Late evenings, after 7 PM, also see a significant decrease in congestion, making it an ideal time to move. Planning your move during these off-peak hours can save you time and frustration.
Here is a breakdown of the LA Traffic times:
LA Traffic Times
- Early Morning (5-7 AM): Traffic is usually light, making it an excellent time to start your move.
- Morning Rush Hour (7-9 AM): Avoid navigating LA during this period as traffic is at its worst.
- Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon: A great window for moving, with reduced traffic and easier navigation.
- Afternoon Rush Hour (4-7 PM): Similar to the morning, this is a peak traffic period to be aware of.
- Evening: From 7 PM onwards, traffic gradually decreases, providing another opportune time for your move.
If traffic is one thing, navigating through LA without getting fined is another thing you must also consider. Here are our top tips you must consider:
Parking
Parking in Los Angeles is a whole topic on its own, and it’s something you need to think about even before your move. You can’t just park a big moving truck anywhere you like.
Finding parking space for a midsized pickup truck could be easier but will account for more back and forth trips.
LA has pretty strict rules, especially in busy neighborhoods like Downtown and Hollywood. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you should know:
- You Need a Permit: In residential areas, you might need a special permit to park your moving truck, especially if it will take up a lot of space or be there for a long time. You’ll have to get these permits from the Los Angeles Department of Transportation.
- Watch Time Limits Carefully & Consider Truck Cleaning Schedule: Keep an eye out for street cleaning schedules, as they are taken seriously in LA. Most parking spots with meters also have time limits, so you can’t just park there all day.
- Special Parking Zones: Some neighborhoods have special parking zones just for residents with permits. Yellow curbs are for loading, but even there, you have to watch the time limits.
Best LA Routes To Avoid Traffic
When it comes to getting around Los Angeles with small moves, choosing the right route can make all the difference. The coastal route, including the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from Rice, offers a beautiful drive and a great way to avoid rush hour traffic. This route is a refreshing alternative to the often-congested 405, also known as the San Diego Freeway, which is particularly busy on weekends. With its numerous entry and exit points, the 405 can be a challenge for even the most seasoned LA drivers.
Fortunately, there are several strategies to navigate LA like a local. Consider the Sepulveda Transit Corridor, which runs parallel to the 405, providing a fantastic option to escape the traffic.
Alternatively, the 101 North to 156 and then Highway 1 offers a scenic and less crowded journey. The Laurel Canyon and La Cienega Freeways are also handy for moving between different parts of the city.
Public Transport is Also an Option
When considering a move within Los Angeles, especially with lighter belongings, public transportation presents a viable option. It might not be the most efficient way to move if you are alone because you have to take a few back and forth trips but quite the experience if you’re up for an adventure.
The Los Angeles Metro has it all. Buses, subways, and light rail, offer a cost-effective solution for your small local move. At just $1.75 per ride, you can easily transport your clothes and light items across the city. Key routes such as the B Line, connecting Downtown LA and Hollywood, and the E Line, linking Downtown to Santa Monica, can get you about everywhere.
Uber & Lyft
Alternatively you can also decide to use car sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. These companies are allowed to use the carpool lane even during rush hour traffic in LA, which can help you get to your destination quicker.
Hire Someone To Do It
If you want the best of the best – hiring a professional, local LA moving company is the way to go. This will help you avoid all questions that might come on your way in regards to parking, driving, navigating, loading and much more!
Try to hire a locally owned and operated moving company and avoid expensive big franchise names. Make sure the company is licensed and insured and you will be good to go.
