In the aftermath of a move, it’s common to find your new space cluttered with leftover packing materials. Though it’s tempting to discard these supplies in the trash, there are sustainable approaches to decluttering that reduce waste and environmental impact. Whether you repurpose items for DIY home projects, offer them to neighbors, or return them to your long-distance moving company, choose to give these materials a second life.
Able Moving & Storage leverages sustainable practices in all its moving jobs. Whether your move is local, out-of-state, or overseas, our professional movers deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable services. With over 35 years of experience, our team can handle all your moving and storage needs within the Washington Metropolitan Area. Call (703) 330-3772 today for a free quote on your next residential or commercial move.
Below, we discuss how to recycle moving supplies:
What Materials Can Be Recycled?
Packing supplies accumulated during a residential move often end up in a trash pile because new homeowners don’t know what to do with them. Yet many common packing materials, though not all, can be recycled. These include:
- Cardboard boxes
- Packing paper
- Bubble wrap
- Packing peanuts
Check your local recycling program’s policies before recycling these supplies to confirm they can accept such materials. By following local regulations, you can lessen your move’s environmental impact.
How to Reuse Packing Supplies
- Save for a future move: Stashing your packing materials (especially specialized boxes, such as the one for your TV) is a smart decision whether or not you anticipate moving again. Doing so can save you time and money on storing and organizing belongings. If you’ve run out of room to store large boxes, the best long-distance moving companies have storage solutions available.
- Home projects: Repurposing leftover moving materials for home projects is another cost-effective and practical approach. For instance, packing peanuts can be placed at the bottom of large house plant pots to improve drainage. Such creative uses of packing supplies can save money in the long run.
- Extra storage: Plastic bins and cardboard boxes left over from your move can also provide storage in your new home. These containers neatly separate and organize belongings from cluttered spaces, such as a garage or attic. Consider how leftover boxes could contribute to organization and storage before discarding them.
Where You Can Donate Used Boxes
Leftover boxes in good condition that you have no use for can go to other people and organizations. Places to donate or sell unwanted moving boxes include:
- Local nonprofits: Many local charities, shelters, and nonprofit organizations—especially those focused on relocation assistance—may accept gently used cardboard boxes and moving supplies. Contact these organizations directly to learn about their donation policies and current needs.
- Online platforms: Listing your used packing supplies on forums such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can help you share supplies with friends and neighbors who need them. Include details about the types of supplies, their condition, and whether you’re offering them for free or at low cost.
- Moving companies: A full-service long-distance moving company, such as Able Moving, may have partnerships with local charities or need gently used boxes themselves. Speak with your moving company about their donation practices and if they can take unwanted boxes off your hands.
Sustainable Long Distance Moving Company in the Washington, DC, Metro Area!
Washington, DC, Metro area residents seeking a sustainable long-distance moving company and storage solutions can turn to Able Moving & Storage. Our team stays in close contact with you throughout the moving process to ensure stress-free service and a smooth transition. Call (703) 330-3772 today for a free, no-obligation estimate.