Not only do you save the landfill from additional waste, but you usually save valuable dollars by planning an environmentally conscious move. Before you rush out and buy boxes and packing material, see what you can find on your own.
Start by looking for boxes already sitting in your basement or attic. Go through your stuff and get rid of anything you haven't used in the last year and recycle the container its been stored in. Downsizing before you move is probably one of the biggest gifts you can give yourself. You'll never miss all that stuff and you'll love having less boxes to unpack in your new home.
When it comes to moving containers, think outside the cardboard box. Plastic totes and suitcases make great moving boxes and can be filled to the brim. In fact, suitcases are especially effective when transporting large pictures or fragile items. Totes are stackable and easy to move.
Once you've exhausted all the possibilities at home, visit nearby grocery and liquor stores, electronics or furniture stores for boxes they may be happy to discard. Often times, local storage or container companies sell used moving boxes and packing material add discounted prices.
When it comes to packing materials, once again, look to what you have around the house. Blankets, towels and bedding have to be packed anyway, so why not use these linens to protect your fragile items instead of expensive bubble wrap. Go to the local dollar store for rolls of paper towel for wrapping wine glasses or china. The paper towels can be folded and re-used in your new home.
There are a number of companies easily found on the internet who rent reusable moving totes at very reasonable prices. Most will deliver the containers and pick them up when you're ready. They generally charge per box, by the week. Other companies will send you a recycled moving kit that includes boxes, packing paper, markers and tape. Just tell them how many rooms you are moving and they'll send an appropriate quantity of supplies.
If you're hiring a mover, be sure to get at least three estimates and call well enough in advance. You'll save a ton of money renting your own truck and lining up some helpers. This too, requires organizing well in advance and getting a commitment from your buddies. Reward their hard work with a nice dinner, even if you just order in, and plenty of cold bevies.
After the move, be sure to recycle those big cardboard boxes and pass any along to other future movers for reuse.
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