1.
Pack
environmentally consciously. Boxes and packing
supplies such as foam peanuts create a lot of extra trash. One fairly
inexpensive way to reduce this trash is to purchase rubber tubs. Once you have
finished with your move, these tubs can be reused to store holiday decorations,
seasonal clothing, and other items that you are sure to accumulate over the
years. Inevitably, you will have to purchase some moving boxes to make sure
that all of your items make it safely to your destination. Instead of throwing
these boxes in the trash when you finish with them, consider donating them to
someone else, or recycling them. Another great way to reduce moving related
trash is to use old blankets and towels as padding in your boxes rather than
packing paper when possible.
2.
Donate
unwanted items. When you are tired of going through
your things and come across something that you don’t want anymore, it is tempting
to take the easy way out and just throw it away. However, your old VHS movies, clothes
that no longer fit, and that unwanted old couch could mean a lot to a local charity
or thrift shopper. Additionally, books that you have already read (which add a
lot of weight to your move) would be greatly appreciated at your local library.
Rather than adding to the landfill, take a little extra time and energy to go
through your belongings and either host a garage sale or donate them to a
charity in need.
3.
Dispose
of hazardous items properly. Certain items cannot
be shipped by professional movers because they represent a hazard. Hazardous
items are anything that is flammable, corrosive, or explosive. Some examples
include fertilizer, car batteries, bleach, ammunition, and paint thinners. If the movers won’t take them, it probably
isn’t the best idea for you to try to ship them yourself. When disposing of
these items, try to be conscious of the environment. Check with your local
waste management company to see if they have a designated hazardous materials disposal day, or contact
a local vendor of the material to be thrown away to see if they offer disposal
services.
4.
Don’t
waste food. Try to plan your meals carefully in the
weeks preceding your move so that you don't end up with a lot of perishables on move
day. Professional movers can’t move perishable items, and depending on the
distance of your move, it can be quite a hassle to try to move them yourself.
If you do find yourself left with excess perishables in the fridge and
freezer, give them to a neighbor. And if you don’t want to pack up and move all
of your canned goods (which also add weight to your move,) consider donating them
to a food shelter.
5.
Investigate
the waste management services at your new home. If
possible, find out ahead of time what type of waste management services (trash,
recycling, and yard waste) are available and when those pick-up days are
scheduled. This way, you can put your items to be recycled out as soon as
possible, and you can avoid having all of your trash sitting at your curb for
days at a time.
Remember, when it comes
to your move, go green! It’s our favorite color here at Sorensen Mayflower!
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