The Eco-Friendly Move: Sustainable Tips for Your Columbus, OH, Relocation

Moving creates a surprising amount of waste. The average household relocation generates stacks of cardboard, mountains of bubble wrap, and a trail of packing peanuts that somehow end up everywhere except the trash can. But if you’re relocating around Columbus, Grove City, or Chillicothe, your move doesn’t have to leave a heavy footprint. With a few thoughtful choices, you can protect your belongings and the environment at the same time.

Declutter With Purpose

Every item you choose not to move is one less box to pack, load, and transport. Before you reach for the tape gun, walk through your home and honestly assess what deserves a spot in your new place. Furniture, clothing, and household goods in decent shape can go to local charities or community organizations around central Ohio — places like the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio or Goodwill locations across Franklin County. Selling items through local marketplace groups keeps things out of landfills and puts cash back in your pocket to offset moving expenses.

Choose Reusable Packing Materials

Standard cardboard boxes get the job done, but they often make a single trip before heading to the recycling bin. Consider renting reusable plastic moving bins instead — they’re sturdier, stackable, and eliminate the need for tape. If you do use cardboard, source used boxes from local buy-nothing groups, grocery stores, or liquor stores (those dividers are perfect for glassware). Herlihy’s own packing supplies include options to fit your needs without excess waste.

Pro Tip: Replace bubble wrap with items you already own. Towels, blankets, t-shirts, and socks make excellent cushioning for dishes and electronics — and they’re traveling to your new home anyway.

Lighten Your Load, Lower Your Emissions

Fewer belongings mean a lighter truck, less fuel burned, and lower emissions. It’s one of the simplest sustainability wins. According to the EPA’s waste reduction guidelines, choosing to reuse and reduce before a move is one of the most impactful steps households can take. If you’re downsizing or your new home has less storage, Herlihy offers storage and warehousing so you can keep what matters without cramming it all into a single truckload.

Mind the Hazardous Stuff

Cleaning products, paint cans, propane tanks, and old batteries shouldn’t be tossed in a box with your kitchen supplies — and most movers won’t transport them for safety reasons. Columbus and surrounding Franklin County offer household hazardous waste drop-off events throughout the year. The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) runs regular collection programs. Properly disposing of these items keeps harmful chemicals out of Ohio’s waterways and soil.

Pro Tip: Photograph the labels on any specialty cleaning products or paints you plan to repurchase after the move. That way, you can drop off the originals at a hazardous waste collection site and buy fresh at your new place without guessing which shade of blue matches the living room.

Set Up Green Habits at Your New Home

A move is a natural reset — a chance to start fresh with better habits. When unpacking, break down all cardboard and recycle it curbside. Flatten packing paper for your next project or drop it at a local recycling center. If you’re settling into a Columbus-area neighborhood, check your city’s recycling schedule so bins are out on the right day from week one. Consider switching to LED bulbs, setting up a composting station, and choosing energy-efficient appliances as you settle in.

Herlihy Moving & Storage takes sustainability seriously, too. Learn more about the company’s environmental initiatives on their Commitment to Sustainability page — it’s one more reason central Ohio families trust Herlihy with their moves.