If you're planning for an upcoming move, there are a lot of items to consider. However, one item you may not consider is how your move may impact the environment. At O'Mara Moving and Storage, our Rockford long-distance movers are committed to reducing our carbon emissions and doing our part to reduce our impact on the environment. Our residential movers in Rockford have put together a list of environmentally-friendly tips and tricks other moving companies and our customers can employ during any size relocation. 

Tips for Moving Companies to Protect the Environment

1. Reduce Fuel Usage by Combining Smaller Shipments

One of the best ways to reduce your carbon emissions is reducing the amount of gas you use. By combining smaller shipments of multiple customers who are all moving across the company in the same truck, you can limit the number of trips you have to take.

2. Offer Reusable Wardrobe Boxes

One-use moving boxes are likely to end up in a landfill after a move. So instead, offer your clients reusable wardrobe boxes to transport their hangable clothing. They can return these boxes to you after they unpack, and you can clean them and offer them to your next customer. 

3, Use Reusable Packing Materials Instead of Plastic

You don't need to use plastic and tape to protect large items during a move. An alternative is to use the customer's blankets and large rubber bands. Not only do blankets provide more padding than plastic wrap, but they won't end up in the garbage after the large items are unpacked. 

4. Apply Eco-Friendly Practices to Your Business Model

It is effortless to incorporate environmentally-friendly practices into your moving company's everyday life. Some of the easiest techniques to apply include:

  • Powering Your Facilities With Wind or Solar Energy
  • Using Second-Hand Office Equipment and Products Made From Recycled Materials
  • Practicing Recycling Within Your Company
  • Buying Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies
  • Using Environmentally-Responsible Service Techniques on Your Trucks

Tips for Customers to Protect the Environment

1. Dispose of Household Chemicals Properly

When cleaning out your home or garage, you may be tempted to toss paint, gas, cleaners, or other chemicals in the trash. However, these items contain harmful toxins that can damage the environment. Make sure you follow the proper disposal guidelines outlined by your community. 

2. Recycle Any Unwanted Electronics

Electronics don't degrade if they are thrown away. Instead of tossing unwanted electronics or appliances in the trash or leaving them out for the garbagemen to dispose of, follow your community's guidelines to ensure they are disposed of and/or recycled correctly. 

3. Donate Unwanted Items, Clothing, and Non-Perishable Food

When you're sorting through your household items and clothing to decide what to pack and what to leave behind, you can donate the unwanted clothing and items to local charities. Likewise, you can donate the non-perishable food you don't want to bring with you to a local food pantry. Not only does this keep these items out of the landfill, but it also helps neighbors who are in need. 

4. Pad Your Valuables With Blankets and Clothing

Instead of purchasing packing materials made of styrofoam or plastic, you can pad your smaller valuables packed in boxes with towels and clothes. For more oversized items, you can wrap them in bedding, such as blankets or sheets. You can also consider using reusable plastic totes instead of cardboard boxes. 

5. Hire an Environmentally-Conscious Moving Company

When hiring a moving company, choose a company dedicated to reducing their carbon emissions and protecting the environment. Look for a company that follows the practices listed above to further ensure your move does as little damage to the earth as possible. 

Request a Free Moving Estimate From Rockford's Most Trusted Long-Distance Moving Company

If you're planning an upcoming move, you need residential movers in Rockford with the experience and resources required to make the process seamless. O'Mara Moving has been in business since 1865. In that time, our Rockford long-distance movers have planned and executed thousands of moves across the country due to our partnership with North American Van Lines. In addition to our focus on eco-friendly services, we also offer the following benefits and moving solutions:

  • Packing Supplies
  • Full-Service and Custom Packing
  • Padding/Wrapping of Furniture
  • Custom Crating for Fragile Items
  • Short-Term Storage Options
  • And Much More!

Call us today to learn more about how we can make your upcoming move as hassle-free as possible, or fill out our online form to request a free and accurate moving estimate.