Reduce Your Moving Waste

You’re moving. Congratulations! It’s almost time to start packing. But how do you navigate the moving process without producing excessive amounts of waste? It’s easier than you think. Take a little time to plan ahead and decrease the carbon footprint of your move.

Save Your Boxes

Start saving those boxes from Amazon. Your boxes and other packing materials from online orders can be reused to pack for your move.

Are you using a moving company? Many have moved away from cardboard boxes and provide customers with reusable plastic containers. You can rent the containers and return them after you’ve unpacked. There are also companies that simply rent plastic moving boxes, like Uhaul, Bungo Boxes, or Rent a Crate.

Donate

Before you begin to pack, go through and get rid of clutter so that you are only packing things you want with you when you move. Any items that are in good condition, including clothing, furniture, household goods, appliances, and more may be donated to local charities, Goodwill, or Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore. Don’t leave items that are in good shape at the curb or in the dumpster. Make a difference by donating them!

Pack Efficiently

Bubble wrap and Styrofoam packing peanuts can take 500 years or longer to biodegrade. Instead of using those, choose newspapers, towels, bedsheets, or other reusable or recyclable materials. Place books in suitcases — their weight often breaks cardboard boxes anyway. Fill laundry baskets with cleaning supplies, and they’ll be easily accessible when you need them. Pack small decorative items in baskets. Be thoughtful when packing and it will cut down on the number of boxes and other packing materials you need.

Eco-Friendly Movers

Some moving companies have “green trucks” that are powered by biodiesel, ethanol, or compressed natural gas. These are a great choice for eco-conscious individuals. If you’re moving locally and using your own transportation, pack efficiently and you’ll have to make fewer trips between locations.

Recycle

When you’re unpacking at your new location, remember to keep boxes, newspapers and other recyclable materials aside to put in your recycle bin or to take to the recycling center.

If you have a lot of junk that cannot be donated, call Simply Dumpsters at 888-404-2202 to rent a roll-off dumpster. We will deliver the dumpster you need and haul away your debris when it’s full.