When your taking on a local or long-distance move, you usually have a lot of different things on your mind. You have to contact a moving company, gather packing supplies and organize your things, just to get started. When taking all this into account, it’s easy to overlook the possibility of making your move eco-friendly. However, it’s actually quite easy to have a green move. Here are a few environmentally-friendly moving tips.
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1. Use What You Already Have
This is one of the best ways to start packing in general. Start packing with any containers that you already own since you’ll need to take them with you anyway. This applies to plastic tubs, cardboard boxes, and reusable grocery bags just for example. If you can, pack electronics in their original boxes and if you need padding for something, use pillow cases and sheets. This will consolidate space and cut down on the amount of new packing materials you will need.
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2. Get Recycled Packing Materials
If you have contacted a local moving company to help with your move, ask them if they offer recycled or reused packing materials. If not, another quick Google search should be able to point you in the direction of someone who does. Also, remember to check with friends and family who may have some leftover packing materials that you can use.
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3. Decide What Not to Keep
Relocating can be a great opportunity to buy new furniture or home decorations. If you plan on doing so, consider donating as many of your old belongings as you can. Donation is a great way ensure that those in need get chance to enjoy something that they may not have had otherwise. Plus, it’s better to have your things being put to good use, rather than being thrown away.
We also recommend having any antiques and collectables that you are considering parting with appraised first. You may be sitting on something very valuable and you should make sure you know what it’s worth. Having a green move is all about making sure you get the most out each item you use, including the ones you sell.
As you can see, having a green move can be very easy. In many ways, the keys to having an eco-friendly move also lead to stress-free move for you and your family.