For many of us, choosing environmentally-friendly options is more than a trend — it’s a way of life! Sustainable choices are a major factor in choosing how we get to work, what we buy, and how we build our homes. The choices that we make can go a long way toward reducing waste and protecting our environment.
When you think “eco-friendly,” the moving industry probably isn’t one of the first things that comes to mind. And it’s true that traditionally, moving tends to generate a lot of waste — from discarded packing materials to fuel consumed by moving vehicles. But many people aren’t aware that there are eco-friendly moving practices that can save money, reduce waste, and promote sustainability.
If eco-friendly packaging and moving are a priority for you and your family in 2024, we’ve put together this guide for you! Here are ten tips for making your move more environmentally friendly.
1. Plan and Organize Early To Reduce Waste
Imagine this scenario: It’s the night before moving day, and you aren’t finished clearing out your home. When time’s running short, items often end up in a trash bag because there’s just no time left to sort, sell, or donate.
Early planning can go a long way towards avoiding this scenario and reducing waste. Whenever possible, we recommend starting the process of decluttering about two months before your move. As you sort through your belongings, you’ll probably find items you haven’t used in years. Separating items into keep, donate, and sell piles helps reduce landfill waste and can even help someone in need.
Selling items is a good way to make some extra cash, and it can also save you money by reducing the overall volume of your move. We’ve created this free, downloadable moving checklist to help as you get ready for moving day.
To add to all of this, planning early gives you time to choose the most eco-friendly packaging options without resorting to last-minute, less sustainable options.
2. Use Eco-Friendly Moving Boxes and Packing Materials
Another tip for eco-friendly moving is to use recycled or biodegradable boxes and packing materials when possible. For less fragile items or high-value items, you might consider swapping out new cardboard boxes and bubble wrap for more environmentally-friendly alternatives.
For padding, you might get creative and use old newspapers, magazines, or even clothes. But let’s be honest: If items get broken because they were packed in worn-out boxes, that adds to landfill waste as well. Your moving partner can help determine which items need to be packed in new, sturdy boxes or reusable crates and which should be fine in recycled materials.
Also, a growing number of companies provide eco-friendly packaging supplies. Ask your mover about these options.
3. Rent or Buy Reusable Moving Crates
Instead of moving boxes, consider renting or buying reusable moving crates. Professional movers love using these whenever possible. Not only are these sturdy plastic crates super durable, they can be used multiple times, reducing waste. If you’re moving an irregularly shaped item, your mover may be able to build a wooden crate to protect it.
Choosing study, eco-friendly packaging and using proper packing techniques are great ways to promote sustainability. Nobody wants their items to get broken because of improper packing. It’s not only a bummer, it’s also not eco-friendly moving when things end up broken and in a landfill. If you’re interested in packing services, your moving partner can make sure things are packed efficiently, safely, and sustainably.
4. Choose Green Moving Companies
When you’re choosing a moving partner, choose someone (like Central) who has a “recycle, reduce, reuse” mindset. More and more moving companies are adopting eco-friendly moving practices, from using fuel-efficient vehicles to recycling their packing materials. Take some time to research different companies and choose one that’s committed to reducing their environmental impact. This not only helps the environment but also sets a standard for other companies in the industry.
5. Minimize Single-Use Plastics
Plastic pollution is a significant environmental problem, and any steps you can take to reduce your plastic use make a difference. Instead of plastic wrap, you might consider using a blanket, old bed sheets, or other eco-friendly packaging materials. Sometimes using plastic is unavoidable. But when possible, opt for recycled products or even old plastic bags that you already have.
6. Opt for Carbon-Neutral Moving Services
Some moving companies offer carbon offset programs or carbon-neutral transportation. These services help neutralize the carbon emissions produced during your move, reducing your carbon footprint. This is a great way to make your move even more sustainable.
7. Consolidate Your Move With Others:
If you are handling your own move, teaming up with others can save fuel and cut down on multiple trips. For cost-effective, eco-friendly moving, carpool your belongings.
If you’re hiring a moving company, we do this for you! Especially if you’re moving long distance, movers often transport several people’s shipments in the same truck. Your items will be delivered within a range of dates (called a delivery window). This saves customers money, and it also cuts down on overall fuel usage.
8. Properly Dispose of Unwanted Items
Sometimes you have items that can’t be sold or donated. When you have items that need to be tossed, it’s important to make sure they’re disposed of properly. Many cities have recycling programs, and there are also lots of online resources to guide you on how to recycle various materials. For items like electronics, look for e-waste recycling programs in your area. A moving partner (like Central) might even be able to help recycle or provide disposal services to make sure things are handled correctly.
9. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances and Eco-Friendly Materials for Your New Home
New homes often need new appliances. As you set up your new home, you can choose energy-efficient appliances and environmentally conscious materials. Energy-efficient appliances reduce your carbon footprint AND save you money on your energy bills. Also, consider eco-friendly materials for your home improvement needs. For example, bamboo flooring is a sustainable alternative to traditional hardwood. And your eco-friendly moving partner can help make sure all your belongings (including these new appliances) arrive safely.
10. Reuse and Repurpose Packing Materials
After moving day, there are tons of ways to reuse packing materials. Instead of throwing boxes away, consider flattening and storing them for future use. Boxes and eco-friendly packaging (like paper and packing peanuts) can be used for arts and crafts projects. You can get creative and turn old cardboard boxes into fun playhouses for your kids. And if someone you know will be moving soon, you can be their moving day hero by giving them boxes and supplies!.
Eco-Friendly Moving: Small Steps for a Big Impact
And there you have it — our top ten tips for eco-friendly moving. Remember, an environmentally mindful lifestyle isn’t just about making big changes, it’s also about the small, everyday decisions we make. Whether it’s choosing biodegradable packing peanuts or partnering with an eco-friendly moving company like Central, every little bit counts toward a more sustainable world. Let’s all do our part to make our planet a better place for future generations.
