Which Moving Supplies are Environmentally Friendly & Inexpensive?

Best and Most Affordable Moving Supplies

1stplace

MovingDayBoxes.Com

MovingDayBoxes.Com hit all the criteria:

  • Lowest priced moving supplies, on average these moving supplies were priced 38% lower than their next competitor
  • Nationwide free delivery
  • Environmentally friendly (dye-free, recyclable, biodegradable) moving boxes

MovingDayBoxes.Com also provides customers instructions on how to recycle boxes or how to use moving boxes to create a new garden bed.  The second and third place winners had compelling offers as well but they don’t provide nationwide delivery or free shipping on all orders.

2ndplace

Usedcardboardboxes.com
A 2009 nominee for the GreenAmerica People’s choice award, Usedcardboardboxes.com takes a new spin on moving supplies by purchasing used cardboard boxes that is good condition and reselling to their customers.

3rdplace

Earthfriendlymoving.com
This company drops off plastic moving crates at your home or office. You pack and move the plastic crates and they pick them up when you are done with them. Currently this company only serves L.A. and Orange County, but this is an interesting concept and one that can really have a powerful and sweeping environmental impact.

My wife and I put this site together in an afternoon because we felt like the companies that are providing the most affordable moving boxes that also happen to be good for the environment stood very little chance of getting noticed. There are a lot of good companies out there doing fantastic things to make the world a better place but we don’t hear about them on the evening news and they are rarely get a lot of consumer attention because they typically lack a large marketing budget.

Each month we will review which business proving moving and packing supplies that are both environmentally friendly and inexpensive.

The criteria for evaluating the best moving supplies companies are.

Each company formally states their moving supplies are environmentally friendly and describe in detail what makes them environmentally friendly.

Each company maintain an admirable rating with the Better Business Bureau

Each company should be doing something beyond simply having a green product, that is they puch the envelope on environmental progress.

Packing Supplies for ANY Move

Packing Supplies

If you’ve watched any of your neighbors move in recent years, you’ve probably seen a whole spectrum of packing supplies be used.  There’s the family that goes way over the top with half a dozen dollies, a giant moving truck, and enough bubble wrap and packing paper for 15 moves.  Then there’s the other family who grabs used grocery store boxes, throws their stuff in, and hopes for the best.  Fortunately for you, there are a few standard packing supplies that fit any move, regardless of your specific needs…

1. Bubble wrap

This is a must for anyone moving items that can be broken by anything harder than a light bump.  You would probably be amazed at how easy it is for your favorite bowl or vase to end up in pieces from even a relatively gentle van ride.  A layer of bubble wrap is just what those breakables need to survive their journey.  And don’t be reluctant to add an extra layer for any especially prized items.

2. Moving blankets

Consider these a type of bubble wrap for your larger items.  Wooden furniture is in special need of protection during your move, as items that jostle or bump against it can cause scratches or gouges.  Moving blankets help soften the blow of any unexpected shifting in the back of your moving truck.  Like many other packing supplies, moving blankets are also versatile.  Before covering your furniture, try using your moving blankets as “moving rugs” underneath some heavier (well-balanced) items, allowing you to safely drag them along.

3. Packing tape

You also might be surprised how many people never bother to tape their moving boxes before loading them up.  Your moving boxes simply are not fully protective with an tapeless top.  Items inside are much more likely to shift without tape, not to mention the mess you’ll find if any of your untaped boxes tips over.  Give your items that last loving touch with some high quality packing tape right across the top of those moving boxes.  And, when in doubt, double-tape the bottom of especially heavy boxes.  Your toes will appreciate it.

Your move will likely require some other specialty packing supplies not on this list, but these three cornerstones of moving should get you started on the right track.

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Moving Equipment, Supplies, Etc.

Moving Equipment Supplies

Moving day coming up?  Feeling overwhelmed yet?  If it’s any consolation, you are not alone.  Far from it.  With all the planning and organization that goes into a moving day, it can feel like a whole other full-time job.  You’ve got moving boxes to find, moving supplies to buy, you have to figure out if you need a mover or just a big group of helpful friends.  Before you get lost in the details, take a moment to read a few of our helpful moving day tips…

1. A little pre-planning…

…goes a long way.  Hopefully this tip isn’t reaching you too late.  It’s never too early to begin planning your move.  You can pack away some seasonal clothes you know you won’t need again before your move, for example.  Or maybe you want to line up a babysitter to watch the kids on moving day.  You will also want to get a jump on determining your specific needs for moving supplies.  Nothing can ruin a moving day quicker than running out of an essential like bubble wrap or packaging tape.

2. Pack light

Like most of us, you may have the mentality of “quick and painless” for your move.  You just want to have as few boxes as possible and get them moved as quickly as possible.  Taking this approach to an extreme can leave you with regrets, especially if you open up your boxes and find damaged or broken valuables inside.  Take the time to pack your items right and just remember that it’s ok to leave your boxes a little lighter.  It’ll make it easier on you and your stuff come moving day, that’s for sure.

3. Buy strong

When it comes to purchasing moving equipment, supplies, and any other items you may need for the big day, don’t cut corners.  If you think you need bubble wrap for especially fragile items, then get the bubble wrap.  The last thing you want is to have your first day in your new house or apartment be spoiled by a broken mess in your moving boxes.  Your items deserve to be protected during your move with first-rate moving supplies.

Overall, just keep your wits about you and moving day does not have to be overly stressful…especially if you’re ready for it.

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5 Moving Tips For A Hassle Free Move

moving tipsMoving is far from an enjoyable task; although the thought of moving to your dream house is exciting, the actual process of moving can be very stressful and can ruin your excitement altogether. In order to save you from the hassles of moving, here are some tips that came from experienced movers. Thankfully, a lot of people have gone through the process of moving and we can all learn from their experiences.

Get rid of things you don’t need

Before thinking of packing, look around your house and decide which things you want to keep and which items can be disposed of. Generally, houses are full of clutter and unused items that will only make your move even more stressful. Having a garage sale usually takes care of this problem; which is good because you get to earn extra during the process. You can also donate the items if you’re feeling charitable.

Empty your pantry

Pack as little food as possible. What you want to do is lessen your grocery shopping at least a month before your scheduled move so you have time to consume canned goods and other packed food that you may have.

Create a checklist

One of the reasons why moves turn into a disaster is lack of order. The process is difficult enough so you’d want to be as organized as possible. Create a “To-Do” list and schedule ahead to avoid stress.

Start packing weeks before your move

Don’t wait until the last minute before you pack. An average room takes about 5 hours to pack so just think of the time needed if you are packing a 5 bedroom house. Add to that the time needed to pack your kitchen, living room, etc…

Properly label your boxes

Knowing which goes where is important and will make unpacking easier. Clearly label the boxes and put notes on it so you’ll know what’s in them in just one look. You can also create priority by labeling those that need to be unpacked first in red.

Moving is a mind game and the better you plan it the easier it will be for you. Your goal is to make the move as organized as possible so it takes less time and effort.

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Packing Supplies – What Packing Supplies Do I Need?

packing suppliesDetermining the things you’ll need when preparing for a move can be difficult, sometimes we think that we have everything we need when in fact we don’t. This is where the hassle and stress starts, you’ll find yourself walking to and fro and searching frantically for things because the movers will be arriving soon. Being unprepared especially when packing is a nightmare and things can only get worse. To help you out, I listed packing supplies that you’ll need.

Moving boxes

Extra Large (23×23x16) – These super large boxes are perfect for packing comforters, pillows, blankets, clothes, and other light yet bulky items.

Large (20×20x15) – Perfect for packing items like lamps, stereos, computers, and other large items.

Medium (18×14x12) – These are easy to carry boxes and perfect for packing books, collectibles, kitchen wares, memorabilias, and other items. You can even store clothes in them.

Wardrobe boxes (24×24x40) – I actually call them a moving closet since you can hang dresses in them. Perfect for storing dresses and seasonal clothes. This also prevents dreaded wrinkles since you don’t have to fold your clothes during the move.

Kitchen moving boxes (18×18x22) – Delicate kitchen items need extra care when moving so make sure to use kitchen moving boxes as they are reinforced and heavy-duty.

Tape and Dispenser

Securely taping your boxes is important. I suggest taping the bottom of the box before packing to reinforce it. Also, make sure that you are using a moving tape as they are more flexible and durable than ordinary household tapes.

Bubble Wrap and Stretch Wrap

Wrap fragile items such as vases, china’s, glass wares, etc… with bubble wrap and protect tables, sofas, and dressers with a stretch wrap.

Packing paper

Used to fill empty spaces and provide extra cushion. Crumple the paper and insert it into any extra space in your moving box. This is to prevent the items from bumping off each other during the move. Some people use old newspapers as packing papers but the ink tends to rub off and into some of the items.

Mattress covers

Prevents your mattress from getting all grimy and dusty during the move. Mattress covers are available in twin, queen, and kings sizes.

Moving blankets and pads

These are designed to protect large items that won’t fit in a box.

Markers

Used to label moving boxes.

Those are the essentials when moving or when preparing to move.

Tip: Make sure that all your boxes are ready and properly labeled before the moving guys arrive, you do pay them by the hour and having them wait outside is a waste of money.


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Moving Supplies You Shouldn’t Be Without

moving suppliesMoving can be a hassle if you do not have the right moving supplies available for use, imagine having to run to and from a store every time you realize that you are missing something important. In order to avoid this, you have to prepare essential moving supplies before hand. Do not assume that you have everything you need until you have checked that everything is indeed in place. Here are some important things that you need when moving.

Moving boxes – These are probably the most important moving supplies that you’ll need. These are specialized boxes that are used specifically for moving, they come in various sizes and are readily available at your local moving supply store. Don’t make the mistake of using old boxes at your house just to save a few dollars, used boxes are not sturdy and will not provide the much needed support, especially when you start stacking boxes on top of them.

Bubble wrap – Breakable items such as porcelain vases, glass jars, mirrors, and other electronic items like laptops should be wrapped in a bubble wrap before being placed in a box. This is to make sure that they don’t break during the move.

Packaging tape – Make sure to seal your moving boxes with a packaging tape to prevent items from falling off during the move. Your things could scatter inside the moving van and that’s something that you don’t want to happen.

Marker – Labeling your moving boxes is very important. There’s nothing more stressful than having 10 or 20 anonymous boxes right in front of you. Label the boxes after you fill them up and it’s also wise to pack related items together.

Edge protectors – These are used to protect edges, as the name suggests, and are used with tables and other furniture. Bumps and grinds when moving are unavoidable so better be prepared.

Moving supplies play a big role in making your move efficient and hassle free so preparing them beforehand is important. What I always do is I list down everything that I need before going to a moving supply store, this saves me from a trip backs due to forgotten items. I suggest you do the same or just purchase moving kits as they generally have everything you need.

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Moving Boxes – Tips for a Smooth Move

moving boxes

Many people think that an efficient moving company is all it takes to make a move quick and smooth. In a way that is correct but there are a lot of things that you can do to make things easier for you and the moving company. You do pay them by the hour so the faster the move is the less money you’ll pay.

One of the areas where you have most control of is how you make use of your moving boxes, it may not have crossed your mind but moving boxes do play a big role in making a move smooth and efficient. Here are a few tried and tested moving tips that I know you’ll love.

  • Make sure to use moving boxes correctly – Just because a moving box is large, it doesn’t mean that you have to put large and heavy items in it. How will you be able to lift it? In general, heavy items should be placed in small boxes, usually by themselves as this makes it easier for the movers to lift it. While light items like pillows can be placed in large boxes.
  • Label the moving boxes – You wouldn’t want to make a mess at your new home because you couldn’t find things that you need. The key to a smooth transition is order, so knowing which ones go to the kitchen, to the dining room, and to the other parts of the house is essential.
  • Fill empty spaces with crumpled newspapers – You’d want to completely fill up your moving boxes to avoid things from moving and getting destroyed while in transit. Plus, boxes are stronger when completely filled.
  • Seal off your moving boxes before the movers arrive – This is to make sure that everything is set and ready to go, remember, you pay by the hour so time spent taping off your boxes while the movers wait is a waste of money. And your items could fly off the boxes and get damaged if ever the boxes are moved while still open.

Moving is fun and exciting but it could also be frustrating if planning and preparation is done poorly. Your goal is to make the move efficient and orderly so following the tips above is a must.

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Moving Boxes for Sale – Where To Go?

sale

The local department store?  The moving company?  The grocery store loading dock?  Whatever I have laying around my basement?  These are all potential sources for moving boxes to use during your next big move.  Each of these has its own advantages and drawbacks.  Given that you are actively researching moving boxes for sale by reading this entry, we will go ahead and ignore the last two sources, as they offer free boxes, but of suspect quality and durability.  When considering the various stores and companies with moving boxes for sale, it is important to recognize that not all boxes are created equal, and neither are all retailers.

The department store…

Department stores are often seen as the ultimate in convenience.  Where else can you find so many items in only one place?  You can make one stop and pick up clothing, kitchenware, electronics, and even groceries.  Why not throw a few moving boxes into the cart while you’re at it?  Unfortunately, what these stores gain in convenience, they often lose in affordability.  For speciality items like moving boxes, it is difficult for department stores to purchase and stock in sufficient bulk to offer a competitive price.  Of course, they hope your desire for convenience outweighs your desire for a good deal.

The moving company…

Another convenient source of moving boxes for sale is the moving company you have already booked for your big move.  Who knows moving boxes better than a moving company, right?  And surely they’ll buy in sufficient bulk to offer a more competitive price than the department store, right?  Unforunately, it is typically the case that moving companies are among the most expensive sources of moving boxes.  They are relying on their customers not to put in the time to find a better deal on moving boxes and supplies.  Of course, we already covered the fact that you are researching your options, so you’re ahead of the game.

Your best bet…

The optimum source of moving boxes for sale are reputable online retailers that focus strictly on the moving supply industry.  By buying their boxes directly from the manufacturer and offering wholesale prices, these retailers offer prices that you simply cannot find elsewhere.  But what about convenience?  How about free shipping to your door and delivery within 1-3 business days?  And once you take a look at the wide variety of moving supplies and moving boxes for sale through an online retailer, you will realize that you are getting the best of all worlds in affordability, strength, and convenience.

Find a great deal on moving boxes with all the best affordability and convenience Today!

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Discount Moving Boxes from…Everyone

Moving Boxes For Sale

Like everything else nowadays, discount moving boxes are available from a variety of companies and stores.  Given all the selection, you may feel exhausted shortly checking into the various options.  Throw in a few confusing offers or deals and it may be tempting to simply run to the nearest department store and pay whatever price they’re asking.  Unfortunately, such a rash decision can lead to trouble in terms of not only price, but also strength and durability of the product you receive.

What to look for…

Behind all the brightly-colored sale signs or flashing internet banners can often be high prices and/or suspect quality in the discount moving boxes offered.  Given the importance of affordable, strong moving boxes, you will want to look past all the distracting advertisements and look carefully at what is being offered.  A fantastic deal on discount moving boxes can often be countered by low quality materials or an unreliable dealer.  On the other hand, paying a higher price for moving boxes at a department store does not guaranty an upgrade in quality.  Instead, look for a retailer with a competitive price on moving boxes and moving supplies, with a great reputation and fantastic customer service.

The good guys…

The most reputable retailers of discount moving boxes are those who focus strictly on the moving supply industry and are therefore invested in the quality and affordability of their product.  Such a company will have a very positive reputation with previous customers and will solidify that reputation with little extras like free shipping or swift delivery.  These companies also don’t need to use giant sale signs or flashing banners to attract customers to their moving boxes.  The quality and affordability does it for them.

Cut through the confusion and score yourself the best deal on discount moving boxes Today!

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What to Consider When You Purchase Moving Boxes

Purchase Moving Boxes

When looking to purchase moving boxes, it can be difficult to nail down the priorities of your big move.  Will you be looking for just a few extra large moving boxes?  Or maybe you want to focus on lots of smaller moving boxes.  Do you need speciality moving boxes for files or picture frames?  While every move is different in many ways, most people have three common priorities when it comes time to purchase moving boxes.

Affordability

Affordability is far and away the number one consideration for most people when they purchase moving boxes.  Unfortunately, the other priorities listed below are often cast aside when giving into the temptation to grab used moving boxes or grocery store reject boxes.  Regardless, finding a great deal on moving boxes can go a long way towards saving you money on your move.

Strength

After price, the biggest difference in the wide variety of moving boxes is strength.  When you purchase moving boxes, you should receive boxes that conform to industry standard edge crush tests.  Anything less is not rated for moving and simply may not have the strength to hold up to the typical moving day.  Even among official moving boxes, strength can vary.  Given the importance of moving boxes to your move, you will want to keep strength among your top priorities when you purchase moving boxes.

Convenience

For many people, convenience of moving boxes is also important.  If you have a big move coming up, you probably don’t want to make repeated trips to the department store, waiting for them to restock their limited supply of moving boxes.  Having the ability to purchase moving boxes all at once certainly goes a long way toward relieving some headaches and stresses related to your move.  Unfortunately, those that offer such a convenience are typically moving companies, which are also known for the extravagant cost of their moving boxes.

The trifecta…

Believe it or not, you have the opportunity to purchase moving boxes without having to rank the above priorities or compromise.  Reputable online retailers dealing strictly in moving supplies allow you to purchase moving boxes that are affordable, test stronger than the industry standard, and arrive in 1-3 business days.  Having satisfied the main three priorities, you will also want to take a look at the great selection of speciality moving boxes and other moving supplies to match your specific needs and other priorities for your move.

Get everything you want out of your moving boxes and moving supplies Today!

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