Moving involves a lot of resources, which can translate into a fairly large impact on the environment. Luckily, both you and your hired movers can take steps to mitigate your impact on the planet while still making your move as stress-free as possible.

As local residential movers in Richmond ourselves, our team at Foster Van Lines decided to compile some of the top tips for planning and executing an environmentally friendly move. We’ll go over both sides of the coin, meaning what your Richmond long-distance movers can do and what you can do, too.
What Your Movers Can Do to Be More Eco-Friendly

Much of your move will be left in the hands of your moving company, which is why it’s important to have a team on your side that you can trust to do the right thing. Here are some basic actions your movers can take to make your move better on the environment.

Combine Multiple Moving Shipments

When there are different shipments from smaller moves heading to the same area, many movers will combine the shipments to save on gas and cut down on emissions being released into the air. This can be especially helpful for longer cross-country moves.

Provide Reusable Packing and Moving Supplies

Moving into a new home means packing all your belongings up and moving them. And that will involve needing supplies. Instead of constantly supplying new cardboard boxes, some companies will use reusable materials to avoid unnecessary waste. They may also provide plastic crates.

Moreover, some companies may choose to use blankets and large rubber bands in lieu of shrink film and tape. So many fragile items require extra padding for the journey, and this is a great alternative that will not have to be tossed once you’re done.

Follow Eco-Friendly Practices

The best moving companies will go even further than simply using eco-friendly materials by implementing eco-friendly policies into their business as a whole. These policies and practices include…

  • Wind and Solar Energy for Facilities

  • Recycled Moving and Packing Supplies

  • Recycling Programs

  • Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies

  • Environmentally Friendly Truck Servicing

And What You Can Do, Too 

You can have a say in how much involvement you want in the moving process versus how much the movers do. If you plan to take care of the packing on your own, here are some steps to take to minimize your impact on the environment.

Properly Dispose of Any Supplies

There are many materials in and around your home that can be harmful for the environment. These include paints, gas and oil, and household cleaners, all of which you most likely won’t be bringing to your new home. If that’s the case, be sure to follow guidelines for proper disposal.

Follow Community Guidelines for Electronics Disposal

Getting rid of old electronics? You can’t simply through them in the garbage. There are local guidelines that are usually in place to avoid negatively impacting the environment. Be sure to check with your local community before getting rid of anything.

Donate Unwanted Items

Rather than throwing away things at all, donate them instead! You can donate everything from household items and clothing to non-perishable food items. You can also ask friends and family members if they want anything before you go to a donation center. Either way, it’s the healthiest way to get rid of things you don’t want.

Use Your Own Packing Materials

Much like moving companies use eco-friendly packing materials, you can, too! Look around for soft items like clothing, towels, and blankets to use for padding. You should also look around for used boxes and bins, so you don’t have to buy even more materials.

About Our Local Richmond Moving Experts
Start your move on the right foot by choosing the right moving company that follows at least some of the practices mentioned above. More specifically, by choosing Foster Van Lines! Our experts have been in business since 1941, and we’ve dealt with our fair share of moves during that time. 

We’re an agent for northAmerican Moving Services, giving us access to the best moving resources and professionals in the business. We’re also a ProMover with the American Moving & Storage Association and a BBB-accredited business with an A+ rating! When you work with our residential movers in Richmond, you get to enjoy amazing benefits and services, including…

  • Full-Service Packing and Custom Crating

  • Specialized Shipping for Pianos, Vehicles, and More

  • Short- and Long-Term Storage Options

  • Protective Wrapping for Furniture, Doors, and Floors

  • Valuation Insurance Plans

  • Free Moving Estimates and Quotes

…Plus, third-party services like disassembly/assembly for swing sets, waterbeds, grandfather clocks, and more.

So, you know what to do to make your move as eco-friendly as possible. Now, it’s time to do it! If you’re ready to start planning your move, get in touch with our Richmond long-distance movers today. You can also fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.