Moving is one of those necessary evils in life. Not only can it take a physical and emotional toll, but it can have devastating environmental impacts as well. In the spirit of sustainability and eco-friendly practices, our friends at Manhattan movers, Imperial Moving & Storage have put together a list of practical ways you can help conserve resources with your next move:
1. Use Recycled Packing Materials
Not only do packing materials like boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap use up resources and end up in landfills, but they comprise a moving expense that is often overlooked. These moving supplies can often add up to hundreds of additional dollars spent, on top of the hundreds already shelled out on movers and other hidden costs of moving, including storage, deposits, and replacement items. To save money and protect the earth, Imperial suggests using recycled packing materials. It’s easy to find recycled cardboard boxes, either online or by an in-person visit to your local grocery store. Most stores trash the boxes goods are delivered in anyway so most will oblige when you ask for their used boxes. For extra cushion for your breakables, consider wrapping them in old newspapers. The business section of the New York Times will do just as great a job of padding your picture frames as traditional packing paper. To fill empty space in boxes, use an assortment of t-shirts, socks, or towels.
2. Ship Your Car Via Train
If you are moving a long distance, you may be taking your vehicle with you. Instead of driving it across the country, you may want to have it shipped via train. Surprisingly, trains have been shown to be four times more fuel efficient than trucks, making this an eco-friendlier option.
3. Declutter Your Home Pre-Move
Taking time to declutter before your move will save you money because it means less time your movers will need to get everything moved. Additionally, (in a nod to basic physics), the less mass moved, the less energy needed to move it. Ultimately moving less means fewer harmful emissions released into the atmosphere proving that decluttering is truly a win-win.
4. Make Your New Home Eco-Conscious
There are many ways to live green as you settle into your new home post-move. Here are just a few ideas:
- Use environmentally-friendly cleaning brands and/or natural products to clean your home
- Order food delivery or groceries from companies committed to sourcing sustainable seafood and produce
- (If you have a yard) start a compost pile
- Use energy efficient lightbulbs
- Make sure your home is well-insulated
These are just a few of the ways you can commit to being greener the next time you move. If you’re looking for a moving company committed to sustainability AND great customer service, then call Imperial Moving. For over a decade, this Manhattan mover has been making moving in NYC easier. With affordable rates and local & long distance service, you can’t find a better moving company in the Big Apple.