Even the most eco-conscious can be daunted by the task of a packing up a household or business while being "green".
Trying to use green-wise packing materials, transport and store belongings responsibly, and properly dispose of unwanted stuff can add to the chaos of living in limbo.
Self storage units are a convenient solution for those who are between homes or offices, and can be an important part of an eco-friendly moving process.
Here are 10 tips for those planning to move or store their belongings Earth-consciously.
1.
Use eco-friendly movers - Biodiesel trucks are available from some moving companies.
2.
Reuse packing materials - Other customers may be discarding boxes or packing materials.
3.
Rent or buy packing containers - Sturdy packing containers made from recycled plastic are available from some moving supply companies.
Purchasing used or new bins made from recycled plastic can be a smart investment since they stack well, are more durable and can be used for years.
4.
Think multiple uses -Paper towels from recycled paper can be used for wrapping fragile items and layering between dishes, and can be used for cleaning later.
Use compostable packing paper that can later serve as compost for your plants and trees.
Linens, towels and clothing work well for wrapping belongings and filling holes in boxes.
5.
Peanuts from sludge - Compostable packing cubes made from recycled newspaper sludge make great packing peanuts.
No mess, no static, no landfill.
6.
Zip rather than tape - Zip ties made from recycled plastic are easier than tape to apply and remove from latches, handles, knobs, etc.
Use them to secure lids, furniture doors, cables, hose, and wrapped items - and recycle them when done.
7.
Donation stations - Pick convenient spots in your old and new home to set up "donation stations".
Keep containers there to accumulate unwanted items for an easy trip to the thrift store later.
Ask the storage facility manager for names of local thrift stores that will pick up at your home.
8.
Store safely - Plants, perishable food and flammable or toxic materials cannot be stored in a self storage unit.
Be sure to remove batteries from electronics.
To avoid leaks, stored cars and trucks should be properly maintained.
9.
Pass it on - When you are done unpacking, ask your facility manager if anyone might have use for your leftover packing materials.
10.
Check on proper disposal - Contact your city's recycling division for instructions on how to dispose of leftover belongings and packing materials properly.
Most self storage and mini storage facility managers are trained on city policies for proper disposal and other green-wise practices.
If you have any questions about eco-friendly moving and storage, be sure to ask them.
Trying to use green-wise packing materials, transport and store belongings responsibly, and properly dispose of unwanted stuff can add to the chaos of living in limbo.
Self storage units are a convenient solution for those who are between homes or offices, and can be an important part of an eco-friendly moving process.
Here are 10 tips for those planning to move or store their belongings Earth-consciously.
1.
Use eco-friendly movers - Biodiesel trucks are available from some moving companies.
2.
Reuse packing materials - Other customers may be discarding boxes or packing materials.
3.
Rent or buy packing containers - Sturdy packing containers made from recycled plastic are available from some moving supply companies.
Purchasing used or new bins made from recycled plastic can be a smart investment since they stack well, are more durable and can be used for years.
4.
Think multiple uses -Paper towels from recycled paper can be used for wrapping fragile items and layering between dishes, and can be used for cleaning later.
Use compostable packing paper that can later serve as compost for your plants and trees.
Linens, towels and clothing work well for wrapping belongings and filling holes in boxes.
5.
Peanuts from sludge - Compostable packing cubes made from recycled newspaper sludge make great packing peanuts.
No mess, no static, no landfill.
6.
Zip rather than tape - Zip ties made from recycled plastic are easier than tape to apply and remove from latches, handles, knobs, etc.
Use them to secure lids, furniture doors, cables, hose, and wrapped items - and recycle them when done.
7.
Donation stations - Pick convenient spots in your old and new home to set up "donation stations".
Keep containers there to accumulate unwanted items for an easy trip to the thrift store later.
Ask the storage facility manager for names of local thrift stores that will pick up at your home.
8.
Store safely - Plants, perishable food and flammable or toxic materials cannot be stored in a self storage unit.
Be sure to remove batteries from electronics.
To avoid leaks, stored cars and trucks should be properly maintained.
9.
Pass it on - When you are done unpacking, ask your facility manager if anyone might have use for your leftover packing materials.
10.
Check on proper disposal - Contact your city's recycling division for instructions on how to dispose of leftover belongings and packing materials properly.
Most self storage and mini storage facility managers are trained on city policies for proper disposal and other green-wise practices.
If you have any questions about eco-friendly moving and storage, be sure to ask them.