While moving can be the exciting start of a new chapter in your life, it can also be a pretty overwhelming process. As you frantically box your belongings up and try to make sure all your i’s are dotted and your t’s are crossed, you might lose track of some of the smaller details. One thing that a lot of people don’t think about during a move is how it could impact the environment. Tons of items get thrown away in the chaos, cars and moving trucks drive from your old place to the new one, and a lot of single-use packaging materials are used. But it doesn’t have to be all waste and extra stuff tossed in a landfill. With a bit of thought, you can make your move feel lighter in more ways than one.
Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect time to declutter your home, so take the opportunity to pare down and clear out all the stuff that you’ve been hanging onto for far too long. Sort through your belongings and separate things into what you want to keep, donate, sell, or recycle. Chances are, there’s a lot you don’t actually need (or even want) to bring with you. And if you come across items that can’t be sold, donated, or recycled, don’t just toss them in the trash. Keep things green by looking for trusted waste removal experts in your area who prioritize sustainable disposal methods.
The less you move, the less energy and resources your move will consume, and the fresher your new home will feel. It might be hard to do at first, but you’ll be incredibly grateful to your past self once you start hauling boxes.
Use Sustainable Packing Supplies
When it’s time to pack, opt for eco-friendly packing supplies. Rather than buying brand-new boxes, see if you can get your hands on used ones from friends, grocery stores, or online marketplaces. You can also repurpose containers you already have, like suitcases, storage bins, or even dresser drawers.
To avoid single-use plastics, use old newspapers, scarves, or towels to cushion your fragile items instead of bubble wrap or plastic peanuts. Go for biodegradable packing tape and labels if you can find them. And once you’ve unpacked and settled in, recycle your packing materials. Most communities have drop-off points for things like cardboard and paper.
Choose Eco-Friendly Movers
If you choose to hire professional movers, try to find ones who actually care about being environmentally conscious. Some use fuel-efficient trucks or routing software that cuts down drive times and minimizes their carbon footprint. Others may provide recycled packing materials or will recycle or donate yours when you’re finished.
Picking a greener moving partner means your whole move has less of an impact on the environment, so shop around to see what eco-friendly efforts each company offers. Also, think about going with a local service. Movers who don’t have to haul your stuff hundreds of miles are better for the planet since they’re not burning extra fuel driving long distances.
Final Thoughts
Moving doesn’t always leave a trail of waste and emissions in its wake. If you plan a bit, make smart choices, and team up with people who care about the planet, you can keep things running smoothly and do some good for the environment too. Sure, it might take a little more effort, but it’s worth it. And honestly, settling into your new place feels better knowing you didn’t leave a mess behind.