There are more and more resources everyday to help us live sustainably at home but what about that dreaded process of moving into our homes.  There are over 40 million moves in the United States each year serviced by a multi-billion dollar industry which does not have the “greenest” reputation.  The average American will move about 11 times in their lifetime so the choices we make at moving time can have significant environmental consequences.  The good news is that there are more sustainable options available to movers appearing everyday.  A new Madison company called FrogBox offers an alternative to buying cardboard boxes by renting commercial quality reusable plastic boxes to its customers.  Once a Frogbox has been used 10 times it's net environmental impact is less than the cardboard option and a Frogbox can be used over 400 times! Here are some more ways to make your move a little easier on our environment…

1.    Sell or donate what you don’t need

Plan a yard or garage sale about two weeks before your move, and sell the stuff you no longer want or use.  If you have time on your side, use eBay and Craigslist to sell the most valuable goods. Donate the rest to a local mission-based reuse thrift shop, such as the Madison Habitat for Humanity Restore or St. Vincent de Paul

2.   Rent eco-friendly reusable moving boxes

Help reduce cardboard waste while saving you time and money by renting re-usable boxes.  Not only are they delivered and picked up at your front door, but they are weather resistant, easy to stack and move, and don’t require assembly. In the Greater Madison area, contact FrogBox at 608-237-6225 or visit us online to learn more about how we can help.

3.   Rent a small van or truck

If you’re moving yourself, consider renting the smallest van or truck that fits your stuff to make your work as easy as possible, while saving money and fuel. If you’re moving a small apartment or studio, consider this a good opportunity to get a Community Car membership and use their Pickup truck or mini-van to transport your things.

4.   Create a green cleaning kit

When cleaning up your old and new home, use green cleaning products to protect your health, and help the environment. Or, hire an experienced green cleaning company like

Natura Clean and take a much needed break from moving.

5.   Tame the junk mail monster

Don’t let your junk mail move with you! Use your move as an opportunity to manage your mail with services like DMAchoice, OptOutPrescreen and Catalog Choice.  Feel good about simplifying your life, while saving hundreds of trees each year.

Share your sustainable moving tips.