6 Top Moving Tips When Planning a ‘Greener’ Move

Conventional thinking in our modern lifestyles tends to lean towards being environmentally friendly to our planet. Following this philosophy can pose challenges when planning a move since moving involves using fuel and packing materials.

The good news is you can reduce negative environmental impact when moving to a new home in many ways. Try the following tips to avoid waste or find other ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

1. Declutter and Downsize Your Home

One of the most eco-friendly steps you can take is to declutter your home before your move. This tip offers numerous benefits while helping you enjoy an easier move.

• There is less volume to move, saving you money and time.
• Fewer packing materials are needed to bundle up your belongings.
• There is potential to earn money if you can sell items you don’t want or need.

Plan to donate any items you cannot sell rather than throw them away. If you have old electronics, research various recycling options so they don’t end up in landfills.

2. Donate Your Food

Sort through the non-perishables in your pantry and freezer, and reserve anything you do not need. Donate these items to a local food pantry. Food donations must be in undamaged, unopened packaging without any dents or other damage. Cans of tuna, beans, rolled oats, rice, canned fruit and vegetables, and canned soups are the best items to donate. 

Many food pantries also accept pet food and treats in an already-opened bag, including dry food. You can donate pet food to a nearby animal shelter if your local food pantry does not accept it.

To locate a food pantry near you, visit Feeding America.

3. Use Sustainable Packaging

Most people turn to trusty bubble wrap when they pack their belongings. Minimize your use of traditional bubble wrap by using other options, like:

• Towels
• Pillow cases and sheets
• Blankets
• Clothing
• Mismatched socks (great for wrapping delicates such as glasses and knick-knacks)

These, along with other types of soft fabrics, can go a long way in reducing the use of plastic. For instance, you can layer glass photo frames and dishware with dish towels and pot holders.

4. Look for Biodegradable Packing Materials

Once you use up any sustainable packaging you already have, turn to biodegradable and recyclable packing materials. You can use newspaper, recyclable packing paper, or an alternative to bubble wrap called GreenWrap.

5. Use Reusable or Recyclable Packing Containers

As you begin packing, look for different types of containers you already have in the house. Great options are plastic bins, duffel bags, suitcases, tote bags, reusable grocery bags, and backpacks. You can even use laundry baskets to stow non-breakable items for transport.

Other eco-friendly packing containers to supplement your packing supplies are reusable free, moving boxes, such as boxes from grocery, pharmacy, or liquor stores. Many moving companies also offer reusable moving boxes as a service, giving you another eco-friendly option.

Pro tip: Once your move is complete, pay it forward by listing your reusable or recycling packing containers online for someone else to use.

6. Choose Movers Dedicated to Sustainability

Find an experienced professional moving company dedicated to sustainability and seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and make more eco-friendly choices. 

Professional movers like Herlihy Moving and Storage are committed to improving their own sustainability with the following:

• Certified Clean Idle and CARB Compliant Trucks
• Monthly Tire Maintenance Program
• Reduced Idling
• LED Lighting in Offices, Exterior Lighting and Warehouses
• Reusable Plastic Moving Totes For Office Moves
• Recycling Cardboard Moving Boxes

Ready to Plan Your Upcoming Move?

Planning a greener move often entails more planning but can be very rewarding from ethical and financial perspectives.