Backups at the Cape Cod bridges are common in summer, according to MassDOT, so a move across them is easier to schedule early and with a flexible arrival window. The state is planning replacement of both bridges and says it will keep two lanes open in each direction while the first new span is built.
Key points
- MassDOT's program page says summer delays at the bridges are common.
- The Cape Cod Bridges Program covers replacing the Sagamore and Bourne bridges, with the Sagamore as the first phase.
- The state says it plans to keep two lanes open in each direction until the first new bridge span is complete.
- Published schedules differ, so check the state's program page for current dates instead of relying on a date in an article.
- Book early, ask about arrival windows, and avoid changing the date late if you can.
Why the bridges matter for a move
Every road route onto Cape Cod from the mainland crosses the Sagamore or the Bourne bridge. A moving truck is slow, heavy and has to arrive at a set address, so a backup at the canal affects the whole day, not just the drive. Sandwich is the first town past the Sagamore Bridge, and our page on Sandwich movers covers Cape-to-Boston moves.
What the state says
MassDOT's Cape Cod Bridges Program page notes that summer delays at the bridges are common, with frequent backups. The program is the state's plan to replace both bridges, led by MassDOT with the Army Corps of Engineers. Replacing the Sagamore Bridge is the first phase.
During construction, MassDOT says two lanes in each direction will stay open until the first new bridge span is complete. It also says it plans to limit construction impacts during peak travel periods and to share traffic updates on the program website.
Published schedules for the work have changed between documents. We are not printing a start date here. The program page is the place to look for the current one.
| Fact | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Summer traffic | Summer delays at the bridges are common, with frequent backups.Source: Mass.gov, retrieved 2026-10-26 | Mass.gov retrieved 2026-10-26 |
| Program scope | Replacement of the Sagamore and Bourne bridges. Replacing the Sagamore Bridge is Phase 1.Source: Mass.gov, retrieved 2026-10-26 | Mass.gov retrieved 2026-10-26 |
| Lanes during construction | Two lanes in each direction stay open until the first new bridge span is complete.Source: Mass.gov, retrieved 2026-10-26 | Mass.gov retrieved 2026-10-26 |
Planning a summer move across the bridges
- Book early. Summer dates fill up, and an early booking leaves room to pick the day.
- Ask about an arrival window instead of a single time, and agree on who calls whom if traffic runs long.
- Pick a weekday if you have the choice. Weekend changeovers on the Cape tend to be busy, so check your own route on a map app for the day.
- Make sure the receiving address is ready: parking, elevator or dock reservations, and building move-in hours.
- Keep valuables, medications and documents with you rather than on the truck.
- Check the program page for traffic notices a few days before the move.
Next step
If you are moving onto or off the Cape, see our in and out of state moves page, or read the overview on our moving page. To ask about a date, request a quote or call (508) 400-5788 any time, 24 hours a day. Our guide to how moving estimates work in Massachusetts covers what to ask before you book.
Common questions
Are there delays at the Cape Cod bridges in summer?
Yes. MassDOT's program page says summer delays are common, with frequent backups.
Will the bridge replacement close the bridges?
The state says two lanes in each direction will stay open until the first new span is complete. Check the program page for current traffic notices.
When does bridge construction start?
Published schedules differ, so we do not print one. The Cape Cod Bridges Program page on mass.gov has the current schedule.
Planning a move or a cleanout?
Sources
- Mass.gov, About the Cape Cod Bridges, retrieved 2026-10-26, https://www.mass.gov/info-details/about-the-cape-cod-bridges-program
- Mass.gov, Where we are in the process: Cape Cod Bridges Program, retrieved 2026-10-26, https://www.mass.gov/info-details/where-we-are-in-the-process-cape-cod-bridges-program
General information, not legal advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm details with the agency linked above.