Moving can create a lot of waste, but it doesn’t have to! With a bit of planning, you can reduce your carbon footprint and make your next move more eco-friendly. From donating what you don’t need to choosing reusable moving boxes and eco-friendly packing materials, there are plenty of simple ways to cut back on waste. Whether you’re renting moving boxes or exploring zero waste moving practices, our guide will help you pack, transport, and settle into your new home sustainably.
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Plan Ahead
Sustainable moving starts with smart planning. Creating a moving checklist helps you stay organized, avoid last-minute waste, and reduce your carbon footprint. When you plan ahead, you can better estimate how many boxes you’ll need, sort through your belongings in time to donate or sell what you don’t want, and avoid unnecessary trips back and forth.
Start by taking inventory of your home and grouping items by category. What will you keep, donate, recycle, or toss? This will make packing easier and help you avoid bringing clutter into your new space.
As you plan, start thinking about the types of materials and equipment you’ll need during the packing process. If you want to reduce waste, look into options to rent moving boxes or eco-friendly packing materials ahead of time. Planning early gives you more flexibility to choose sustainable solutions and makes for a smoother, greener move.
The more intentional your plan, the greener—and less stressful—your move can be.
Donating and Decluttering
One of the easiest ways to reduce waste during a move is to donate what you no longer need. Moving is the perfect time to declutter, and giving your items a second life keeps them out of landfills and supports a more zero-waste moving process.
If something still works, chances are someone else can use it. Local thrift stores, shelters, and nonprofits like Goodwill or the Salvation Army are great options for clothing, small appliances, kitchenware, and home goods. For furniture or larger items, many donation centers offer pickup services.
You can also list items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor to give things away quickly or even earn a few dollars. The fewer things you move, the fewer moving supplies you’ll need, which means less waste and less stress!
Sorting and donating before you pack saves space, cuts costs, and helps your community. It’s a win all around.
Getting Rid of Old Electronics
Old electronics can be tricky to get rid of, but they don’t belong in the trash. E-waste contains harmful materials, so part of an eco-friendly moving strategy includes disposing of devices the right way.
Start by sorting through your tech. If it still works, consider donating it or selling it on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay. Apple Trade-In and Best Buy also offer buy-back or recycling programs.
If a device is broken, check if it can be repaired instead of replaced. Stores like Apple or Best Buy offer diagnostics and fixes that could save you money and prevent waste.
When recycling is your best option, use certified e-waste recycling centers. Many local governments and electronics retailers offer safe, free drop-off locations.
Properly Dispose of Hazardous Materials
Before your move, take time to safely dispose of any hazardous materials or liquids like old paint, batteries, cleaning supplies, automotive fluids, or lightbulbs. These items often can’t be thrown out with regular trash and can be harmful to the environment if not handled correctly.
Look for local household hazardous waste drop-off sites or community collection events. Some stores, like Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Best Buy, offer recycling programs for batteries, lightbulbs, and electronics. Getting rid of these items responsibly protects the planet and means you’ll have less to pack and fewer risks during your move.
If you’re planning on moving with liquids or potentially hazardous materials, make sure you are doing so safely as well. Secure them properly during the move and be mindful of storing them in high-temperature environments.
Here’s a list of items that should be disposed of with care while decluttering:
- Paint and paint thinner
- Household cleaners (bleach, ammonia, drain cleaners, etc.)
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Batteries (alkaline, lithium, rechargeable, etc.)
- Electronics (old phones, laptops, cords, printers)
- Lightbulbs (especially CFLs and fluorescent bulbs)
- Motor oil and automotive fluids
- Propane tanks or camping fuel
- Aerosol cans (including hairspray, cooking spray, or cleaning products)
- Nail polish and nail polish remover
- Fire extinguishers
- Pool chemicals or other corrosive substances
- Old medications (which should be returned to a pharmacy or take-back program)
Choose Sustainable Moving Supplies
Packing materials can create a ton of waste, but there are greener options. Choosing eco-friendly packing supplies makes a big difference in how sustainable your move is.
Skip single-use plastic and flimsy cardboard. Instead, opt for reusable moving boxes or plastic moving crates that are sturdy, waterproof, and stackable. You can buy or rent moving boxes from local companies that drop them off and pick them up, eliminating waste and extra hassle.
For padding, look for biodegradable packing supplies like recycled paper, corrugated wrap, or compostable packing peanuts. You can also repurpose what you already have: towels, blankets, or clothing work well to cushion fragile items.
Need extra gear? Renting moving supplies like dollies, furniture pads, and straps means fewer items you have to purchase (and store) long-term. Less clutter, less waste.
Being mindful of what you use to pack is one of the most effective ways to reduce the environmental impact of your move.
Why Reusable Moving Boxes Are a Smart, Sustainable Choice
Cardboard may be the go-to for most people, but reusable moving bins, moving bags, or crates are a much better option for both the planet and your move. These sturdy, often stackable containers are made from durable plastic and can be used dozens (or even hundreds) of times, reducing the need for disposable materials.
If you think you’ll move again in the future, investing in a set of reusable bins or bags may be worth it long-term. Buying biodegradable packing supplies and eco-friendly packing materials is a great way to practice eco-friendly moving. Otherwise, renting moving boxes is one of the easiest, most effective ways to embrace zero waste moving—no mess, no waste, and no hassle.
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Rent Supplies
If you’re aiming for a greener move, renting moving supplies is a smart way to reduce waste and cut costs. Instead of buying items you’ll only use once (like dollies, furniture pads, or wardrobe boxes) you can rent everything you need from local or national providers. This may include things like dollies, furniture pads, or wardrobe boxes.
Many eco-friendly packing supply companies offer rental programs that include reusable crates, moving straps, and other essentials. Renting not only keeps single-use materials out of landfills but also keeps your post-move storage spaces clutter-free.
If you’re not planning to move again soon, there’s no need to purchase bulky gear that will sit unused. Renting means you only use what you need, when you need it, and return it when you’re done. It’s a low-effort, low-waste win.
Green Moving Options from U-Haul and Other Providers
If you’re looking to rent moving boxes or find eco-friendly packing supplies, U-Haul and similar providers offer some solid options. Their Ready-To-Go Boxes are durable, reusable plastic crates available for rent, designed to make your move sustainable and efficient. These boxes are weather-resistant, easy to stack, and don’t require any tape, making them a great alternative to cardboard.
In addition to reusable boxes, U-Haul offers eco-friendly packing supplies like biodegradable packing peanuts, recycled furniture pads, and cushion sorbs. Whether you’re moving across town or out of state, using materials like these helps reduce waste and protect your belongings.
Of course, U-Haul isn’t the only option. Many local and regional companies now offer green moving kits and plastic moving crates for rent, so be sure to explore what’s available in your area.
Choosing a Sustainable Moving Company
If you’re hiring help for your move, look into eco-friendly moving companies that prioritize sustainable practices. Some movers offer reusable moving boxes, fuel-efficient trucks, and waste-reduction policies as part of their services.
Look for companies that list specifics, not slogans. An eco-friendly mover should be transparent about fleet efficiency, energy sources, and waste policies. A label like “green mover” means nothing without proof. Ask about electric or hybrid trucks. Ask how they manage fuel use. Do they use carbon offsets? Do they reuse packing materials across jobs? If a mover says yes but can’t show you how, move on.
Alec Loeb, VP of Growth Marketing, EcoATM
When researching, ask potential companies questions like:
- Do you offer plastic moving crates or rent moving boxes?
- What kind of packing materials do you use? Are they recyclable or biodegradable?
- Do you consolidate moves to reduce trips and emissions?
- How do you handle donation or recycling drop-offs?
Working with a green moving company ensures that your move stays aligned with your values from start to finish. Many local and regional movers now advertise sustainability as a key part of their business, so it’s worth comparing your options.
Conclusion
Sustainable moving doesn’t have to be complicated! It just takes a little planning and intention. By choosing to rent moving supplies, use reusable moving boxes, and donate or recycle unwanted items, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Simple swaps, like using eco-friendly packing supplies or renting plastic moving crates, help you avoid waste without sacrificing convenience.
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, every decision makes a difference. A zero waste moving mindset isn’t just good for the planet—it can also save you time, money, and stress. So pack smart, think green, and feel good knowing your move is part of a more sustainable future.
FAQ’s
Reusable plastic moving crates are one of the best alternatives. They’re sturdy, weather-resistant, and don’t require tape. Many companies, like U-Haul, let you rent moving boxes, which they’ll deliver and pick up when you’re done. Eco-friendly packing materials and biodegradable packing supplies are great if you prefer to buy your materials.
Yes! Many moving companies offer rentable moving supplies like dollies, furniture pads, bins, and boxes. Renting reduces waste and eliminates the need to store bulky equipment after your move.
Look for movers that offer reusable moving boxes, fuel-efficient vehicles, and sustainable packing materials. Ask about their environmental practices or check for certifications or green business listings in your area.
These are considered hazardous materials and shouldn’t go in the trash. Drop them off at local hazardous waste facilities or take advantage of community collection events.
Often, yes. Zero waste moving helps you save by avoiding unnecessary purchases, reducing trips, and preventing damage to your belongings with more durable supplies. Plus, donating or selling unused items can put a little extra cash in your pocket.
Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.
