Moving and packing have come to encompass a slew of environmentally unfriendly purchases. According to the EPA, paper and cardboard were the biggest chunks of solid wastes in 2017. While 69.9% of plastic containers and packaging were landfilled during the same period. Here are eco-friendly packing tips on how you can be packing for a next home move that is more efficient and sustainable.
Eco-friendly packing tips when moving out
Prepare ahead of time
Have you ever packed until the last minute for your next home move, only to have half of everything still in mess? You might even find items you haven’t seen since your last move. So don’t wait until the van arrives to deal with your extras.
You’ll have more time to get rid of things you don’t need if you start packing a few weeks ahead of time. If you haven’t worn a tuxedo or a dress since after your prom in high school, it’s probably time to let them go. Hold a yard sale or donate extra items to a charity. You’ll use less fuel if you only transport what you need.
Hire the services of an eco-friendly moving company
When looking for a reputable company to assist with your move, consider their environmental credentials as well. Is the company’s fleet of packing materials mostly composed of non-reusable items? Is it possible to buy recycled boxes there? Will the movers assist you in packing and organizing to use the fewest number of boxes possible? On moving day, you’ll have enough to worry about, so hiring an eco-friendly mover will make it easier to be environmentally conscious.
Stock up on packing supplies
Purchasing boxes from your mover can be costly, but you can probably find them for free in your neighborhood. Inquire with local businesses about using their packing boxes; most stores discard their materials after unloading the contents. You should also keep your bubble wrap, boxes, and envelopes for your move. A little forethought can help you save money while also saving some boxes from the landfill.
Purchase recycled boxes.
Don’t have time to go scavenging for boxes around town? Allow someone else to do it. UsedCardboardBoxes.com collects boxes from businesses across the country that are on their way to the landfill. They also use new boxes that are factory overruns and misprints. Although it is less expensive than purchasing brand-new boxes, the convenience will cost you.
Use these reusable moving bins
Good Green Moving offers reusable bins that help pack with eco-friendly materials that won’t generate any moving waste. The reusable moving tubs made of recycled materials are owned by the company. Good Green’s movers bring an adequate number of boxes from the estimate of your quote. When you’re finished with the boxes, they’ll come and get them. Not only that, every transaction that you have with Good Green shares its mission of restoring habitats in the Bay Area. Get a free quote here.
Begin by packing in containers you already have
You’ll probably need a few boxes to transport your belongings, but try to pack as much as possible in containers you already have. Bring out your suitcases and plastic bins and fill them with your belongings. When packing fragile items, use pillows rather than paper. This will allow you to consolidate your belongings while producing no waste.
Make as few trips as possible between the two locations
Reduce the number of van runs between the new and old houses by packing your car. You should, however, hire a van rather than drive across town on several occasions. Plan your trip to use as little fuel as possible, which lowers carbon emissions from your car. Moving to San Francisco with your kids? Read this list of tips to deal with the obstacles in relocating your family
Recycle your packing supplies
Regardless of where you get your moving boxes, make sure to recycle them at the end of the journey. Find a friend or fellow mover to give them to, or post an ad online to find a buyer. At the very least, take them to the recycling center rather than the trash can.