What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about moving to a new place? If you’re like most people, you’re likely already calculating how many cardboard boxes you’re going to need and which moving company you should hire.
You might even be trying to calculate how much time the packing and moving process will take and what kind of a hole it’s going to burn in your wallet. Sustainability and environmental protection often take a backseat amidst this rigmarole.
Of course, you can reuse and recycle cardboard boxes commonly used for packing all your belongings. But chances are you’re going to end up creating a plethora of waste in the form of non-biodegradable packing materials.
Also, constant to and fro trips between your new and existing place could further increase the carbon footprint. Needless to say, this takes a heavy toll on the environment. It’s particularly crucial considering that a person moves 11.4 times on an average during their lifetime.
But this doesn’t mean the packing and moving process always has to go against the environment. A few simple hacks can go a long way to help you minimize its environmental impact. From minimizing the need for new cardboard boxes to hiring a green moving company – there are several ways to achieve sustainability.
In this blog, we’ve outlined a few effective green moving tips that’ll come in handy the next time you’re shifting base. Let’s take a look.
1. Pack Smart
One of the easiest ways to reduce the environmental toll of moving is to use fewer cardboard boxes, to begin with. Even though these boxes are recyclable, most people don’t bother to drop these at collection points. Eventually, these boxes end up in the landfill.
So, how do you avoid this scenario? Start by looking for storage units and containers you already have. Many regular things in your home could be potential vessels for storing other objects, such as suitcases, duffle bags, dresser drawers, and large utensils.
For instance, if you have a large instant pot, you can stuff it with smaller kitchen items, including cups, bowls, and cutlery. Likewise, you can pack your clothes, shoes, jewelry, etc., in suitcases you already have.
2. Save Those Online Shopping Boxes
Unless you’re living under a rock in 2021, the online shopping bug has already bitten you. While it’s easy and convenient to have everything delivered to your doorstep, it isn’t as great for the environment. You can do your bit to curb the problem by reusing the boxes from your online packages.
Even if you don’t have plans to move anytime soon, it’s a good idea to store these boxes for the future. Apart from being sustainable, this creative moving hack is also easier on your wallet.
3. Choose the Right Moving Company
Should you hire a professional moving company or turn the relocation into a DIY moving project? It is one of the most common dilemmas you’re going to face when you contemplate moving to a new place.
Of course, a moving company is going to charge a hefty fee. However, they often have years of experience and can reduce the overall time and cost of the move. That is, of course, when you choose a trusted and reliable service that shares your vision of sustainability.
Whenever you’re scouting for a moving company, make sure you visit their website to find out more about the different types of services they offer. It’s also a good idea to ask for references from their existing clientele.
Likewise, you should have a clear discussion with the company to find out whether they prioritize green moving practices. Explore the possibility of procuring reusable moving boxes for packing, as well as biofuel for transportation.
4. Donate, Don’t Waste
If you’ve been living in your present home for a while, chances are you’ve assimilated quite a collection of clothes, household appliances, kitchen tools, crockery, and other belongings. Moving to a new place is the perfect opportunity to get rid of the things you no longer need.
But instead of simply abandoning these objects, you should consider giving them away. To begin with, you could use them as parting gifts for friends, colleagues, and relatives. If you still have a surplus, you could always donate to non-profit organizations, schools, libraries, homeless shelters, etc.
Being mindful of the environment has become a crucial part of human life. It becomes all the more important when you’re moving houses. Use the aforementioned techniques to minimize the environmental impact of your impending relocation. It’ll make the overall moving process less stressful and minimize the pocket pinch as well.
