SUSTAINABLE MOVING: 5 Ways to DITCH Moving Boxes

Moving doesn’t have to be wasteful. It doesn’t have to come with piles of waste & stacks of single-use cardboard. Whether you’re relocating across town or cross-country, there are eco-conscious ways to pack up your home without sacrificing your values. At the heart of a zero waste move? How you source your moving boxes.

Here are 5 sustainable options to help you reduce waste, save money, & protect the planet while packing:

1. Rent Reusable Moving Boxes from U-Haul

U-Haul isn’t just for trucks & trailers, they also offer reusable plastic moving boxes for rent in select locations. These sturdy totes are designed for repeated use & are a far greener option than traditional cardboard. After your move, just return them. No breaking down, no piles of waste, no guilt.

Why it’s sustainable: These boxes are made from recycled materials & can be reused hundreds of times before being recycled again! A WIN! 

2. Search “Free Moving Boxes” on Facebook Marketplace: Before you buy anything new, turn to your community. Facebook Marketplace is full of people who have just moved & are giving away gently used moving boxes for free. You’re keeping those boxes in use & out of landfills. & more points to you if you repost them on Facebook marketplace when you’re done! 

Pro tip: Also check out local Buy Nothing groups or the Nextdoor app to find free boxes near you.

3. Order from UsedCardboardBoxes.com

This company collects high quality used boxes from large businesses & ships them directly to your door. You get an affordable, eco friendly moving kit & zero trees are cut down in the process. Does require a small cost, but definitely an option worth looking into!

Why it’s sustainable: They reclaim boxes that would otherwise be recycled or trashed, giving them a second life in your move.

4. EcoBox

EcoBox is another great option if you’re looking to buy recycled or previously used moving boxes. They even offer specialty packing supplies made from post consumer waste. You can order online or visit a store if there’s one near you! Mostly in larger cities.

Why it’s sustainable: Every product is designed with reuse, recyclability, or biodegradability in mind. They offer more than boxes too like waffle paper, paper fillers & more! 

5. Rent from BungoBox, Rentacrate, or Frogbox

If you’re moving in a major metro area, companies like BungoBox, Rentacrate, & Frogbox rent durable plastic moving bins made from recycled materials. These are stackable, waterproof, & often delivered straight to your door & picked up when you’re done. Which is less transportation emission from you, YAY!

Why it’s sustainable: One rented bin can replace dozens of cardboard boxes, dramatically cutting your waste footprint.

📦THINK BEYOND THE BOX!

1. Use Suitcases, Duffel Bags, Laundry Baskets, & Totes

You already have containers made for carrying things, why not use them?

• Suitcases are perfect for books, clothing, and fragile items when padded well.

•Duffel bags can hold soft items like bedding or towels.

•Laundry baskets make excellent open bins for toys, pantry staples, or household odds and ends.

•Reusable shopping totes are great for organizing kitchen items, shoes, or even toiletries.

2. Pack Pantry Items in Reusable Grocery Bags

Chances are you already have a stash of reusable grocery bags & now is their time to shine. Use them to pack:

• Canned goods & jars
• Bathroom items & toiletries
• Snacks, oils, & spices

They’re easy to carry, sturdy, & keep your move plastic free.

3. Wrap Fragile Items in Blankets, Towels, & Cloth

Forget single use bubble wrap & packing paper. Your own linens can protect your belongings without waste:

• Wrap dishes & glassware in towels, pillowcases, or cloth napkins
• Use blankets or throws to pad larger fragile items or fill empty space in boxes
• Roll scarves or cloth diapers around vases, mugs, or picture frames