4 Eco-Friendly Tips to Make Your Next Move Easier

Moving to a new home, new city, or even new country is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many preparations that must be made, arrangements to schedule, and items to pack. The last thing on your mind is how your move has an impact on the environment, which is why we have five tips to make your next move easier and greener!

1. Sort, Donate and Purge Before Packing

Isn’t it incredible the amount of items that accumulate in our living spaces when we’re not paying attention? How did you end up with three can openers? Why do you have so many unused candles? Or cleaning products? Or books?

Humans are really good at collecting things (though some of us are better than others). So how do you tackle all the items in your home? It helps to start sorting weeks (even months!) before your move. Sort everything and determine whether you want it, need it, or whether it can be let go. Whether you choose the Marie Kondo method or simply want to purge your unused or duplicate items, the choice of sorting method is entirely up to you.

The next step is to decide how you part with your unwanted items. Do you want to plan a garage sale to give others the opportunity to pick up your treasures and earn you a bit of extra money? Or do you want to use digital methods, such as Facebook buy and sell groups, Kijiji, eBay, or your local newspaper ads? You can also donate your items to charity organizations in your community. The more of these items you recycle, donate, or sell, the fewer items you’ll need to pack and move, saving you both space and materials. Plus, you’ll save a lot of this from ending up in the landfill, which is a win-win for everyone!

2. Choose Reusable Moving Materials

You can never have too many storage options. If you need to sort and move your belongings, why not choose reusable boxes for your items that will remain stored in containers in your new place, such as seasonal decorations, toys, tools, etc.? Plastic bins and wooden crates are sturdy enough to protect your belongings and are attractive storage options in your new home too.

If you’re transporting fragile items such as mirrors, wood furniture, and electronics, you can use thick blankets for padding and protection instead of bubble wrap. Use your discretion. Some items might be too valuable to risk damage, and bubble wrap might be the best option. If so, you can always reuse it in the future or pass it on to your next friend or family member who is moving. You can also hire professionals to take care of your packing if you don’t have time or prefer not to do it yourself.

3. Recycle Your Packing Supplies

You might not be able to choose a reusable container for all your packing needs, so when you do need to purchase boxes, look for ones made out of partially or fully recycled fibers. New boxes are better for moving day as their structure is sturdier and won’t break during the actual move. Afterward, cardboard boxes are great for keeping seasonal or sentimental items in storage areas or getting creative with kids (cardboard box maze, anyone?!) If you have any remaining boxes that are not needed, they can be easily sorted into the paper recycling bin.

4. Reduce Emissions, Increase Convenience

The easiest, most efficient method of getting all your possessions from point A to B on moving day is to use one moving truck that will fit everything. Not only will one truck make moving all your stuff faster and more efficient, but it will also reduce your emissions. A single moving truck has a smaller environmental impact compared to several smaller vehicles making multiple trips. If you live in a city with lots of traffic or feel nervous about driving a large moving truck, you can hire professional movers to help you.

Your Eco-Friendly Moving Company in Edmonton, Alberta

Take away the stress of moving and hire an eco-friendly moving company to do it for you. Our professional movers can take care of all of your packing needs and do the heavy lifting on a moving day. Contact us today for your free moving estimate.