Four Options For An Eco-Friendly Move

Posted on: 29 December 2016

Moving and packing materials can sometimes create a lot of waste. Plastic wrap and packing paper often get thrown in the garbage, as do moving boxes. If you are planning a move and are concerned about the impact your move might have on the environment, consider these eco-friendly options to do your part for the environment.

Heavy-Duty Plastic Storage Containers

Instead of using traditional cardboard boxes, consider using heavy-duty plastic storage containers to pack your items. Not only are these containers conveniently reusable, but they also stack up neatly in your moving van or truck. The containers come in a variety of sizes, and you can even find specialty containers for some objects. For example, you can use a plastic wardrobe container to hang your clothing for an easy transition from your old closet to your new one. Talk to your moving company about renting these bins, or if you will be using a self-storage unit, you may consider purchasing the containers for your ongoing storage needs.

Recycled Cardboard Wrap

No matter what type of moving boxes you use, you'll need packing materials to cushion fragile items during the move. Instead of using bubbled plastic wrap, consider the eco-friendly version. Recycled cardboard wrap is designed to do the same job as the plastic wrap, but it is sourced from recycled materials. It can also be placed in your recycling bins for easy disposal. This wrap comes in a roll, so you can cut exactly the amount you need to wrap and cushion your fragile items.

Clothing And Linens

Not all of your eco-friendly packing supplies need to be purchased or rented. In fact, you can use fewer boxes by putting some of your personal items to work as packing materials. Washcloths and hand towels can be great for separating plates and bowls from your kitchen, and socks can be used to fill fragile vases for added reinforcement. You can even use your bed sheets to wrap your televisions to protect the screens from being scratched during the moving process. Similarly, you can use pillows inside of furniture with glass doors for added protection.

Reusable Tote Bags

Reusable tote bags can be used for a range of purposes when moving. They can be used to transport nonperishable foods from your pantry, and they can also come in handy for collecting odds and ends throughout the house that don't make it into a moving box. Remember that your moving company might not transport the bags for you, as they won't be sealed and labeled like your moving containers. However, you can load these bags into your car and move them on your own.

Talk to your moving company about other options for an eco-friendly move, and start planning in advance to get all the materials you need for moving day.

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