Published: December 01, 2024

How to Have a More Eco-Friendly Move 

Moving can be a stressful time, but it also presents an opportunity to embrace more sustainable practices. With the winter season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to make your move more eco-friendly. By incorporating a few simple strategies, you can reduce waste, minimize your carbon footprint, and start your journey in a new home with a green mindset. Here are some practical and sustainable moving tips that will help make your fall move better for the environment.

1. Use Eco-Friendly Packing Materials

One of the easiest ways to make your move more eco-friendly is by being mindful of the packing materials you use. Traditional packing supplies like bubble wrap and styrofoam are not biodegradable and contribute to landfill waste. Instead, opt for sustainable alternatives like:

• Recycled Cardboard Boxes: Check local grocery stores or online marketplaces where people give away used boxes.
• Biodegradable Packing Peanuts: These dissolve in water and are a great substitute for styrofoam.
• Cloth and Linens: Use towels, blankets, and old clothes to wrap fragile items instead of purchasing packing paper.
• Reusable Containers: Instead of single-use boxes, consider using plastic storage bins, which can be reused for storage.

2. Rent Moving Supplies

Another eco-friendly option is to rent your moving supplies. Many companies now offer rentable moving boxes and supplies. These boxes are durable and can be reused hundreds of times, significantly reducing the demand for new boxes. After your move, you can return them, ensuring others use them. By choosing to rent instead of buy, you help lower waste and minimize the environmental impact of your move.

3. Declutter Before Moving

Moving less means using fewer resources. Take this opportunity to declutter your belongings and only pack what you truly need. You will reduce the amount of stuff you have to move and prevent unnecessary items from being transported and potentially ending up in a landfill.

• Donate or Sell Unwanted Items: If you have gently used clothing, furniture, or electronics, consider donating them.
• Recycle Responsibly: Take any items that can’t be donated to designated recycling centers.

4. Use Portable Storage Containers

Instead of renting a traditional moving truck, consider using portable storage containers from UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Birmingham for an eco-friendly moving solution. Our portable storage containers are delivered right to your door, reducing the need for multiple trips back and forth. By using portable storage containers, you also avoid the stress of driving a large moving truck and can take your time packing and loading, reducing the need for rushed and wasteful decisions. Once you’re ready, UNITS® will transport the loaded portable storage containers to your new home, allowing for a smooth and eco-conscious move.

5. Reduce Waste During Unpacking

After you’ve successfully moved into your new home, unpacking can often generate a lot of waste. Avoid throwing out all your packing materials by repurposing or recycling them. If you rented moving supplies, return them. For any boxes you use, consider storing them for future moves or offering them to friends, neighbors, or online communities. Additionally, make a conscious effort to reduce household waste by starting off with sustainable practices in your new space. Set up a recycling station, compost food waste, and continue to reuse items.

Making your move more eco-friendly doesn’t have to be difficult. With a few adjustments, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact and start your new life in a more sustainable way. From using eco-friendly packing materials to choosing greener transportation methods, these small changes can lead to big benefits for both you and the planet. Happy moving!

To rent a portable storage container for your move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Birmingham or call (205) 839-2903.