By / OVM TEAM

Ottawa Moving Company Tips for a Green Economical Move

Three Tips on How to Save Money and Go Green on your Next Move

Whether it’s a move across the country or down the street, an Ottawa moving company knows all too well that moving can be expensive. But really, does it have to be? This article aims to provide you with practical tips that will not only save you money on your move, but will also help reduce your environmental footprint.

1. Declutter and downsize before your move

An Ottawa Moving Company will be the first to tell you that your moving cost will depend directly on the weight and volume of items you have to move. The less stuff you have, the cheaper the moving process  is going to be. While this seems like a no brainer, you’d be surprised at how many of our clients take everything with them, just to toss, donate or even sell it soon after they arrive at their new home.

A few items that we would recommend that you consider purging:

• books
• clothes (that haven’t been worn for more than 6 months)
• old furniture
• outdated electronics

From our experience moving in Ottawa and beyond, we know that these items take up space, are heavy, and certainly contribute to the cost of moving. By downsizing and leaving some of these items behind, you can reduce your moving costs. 

If you are not sure where to start, then consider making a list of things that are a must-take. It will help you evaluate what exactly you will need in your new home and what can even make you some extra cash by selling.

2. Put your belongings to great use – donate or sell them to finance your move

Decluttering is an excellent opportunity to donate your items, and to even sell your stuff to pay for the move. Consider visiting your closest shelter or thrift store; those places tend to take items in any condition, and you know they will go to great use. Of course there are things that not all shelters will find useful. That’s an opportunity to help cover the cost of the move. By selling items on Kijiji, Facebook MarketPlace or at a local garage sale you can save moving space, decrease expenses and make some extra cash. 

3. Reduce your environmental footprint on your next Ottawa move

People say it’s impossible to go green and save money at the same time, but we believe otherwise. Here are a couple of suggestions on how to make your next move more environmentally friendly.

• Instead of buying moving boxes you can just ask for them at your local retailers.  Here’s a list of places where you could potentially find boxes and discounted moving supplies:
  • Furniture stores
  • Grocery stores
  • Liquor stores
  • Book stores
  • Facebook community groups
  • Craigslist
  • Kijiji
  • Neighbours and friends
    
• Rather than spending money on bubble wrap, consider using blankets, newspapers and pillows to protect your belongings.

Retailers often have an excess of free moving inventory and will be more than happy to give it away. By using salvaged boxes and avoiding the bubble wrap you’re not only making your move cheaper, but also directly combating climate change by reducing waste. Who knew that you could reduce your carbon footprint in just a few simple steps.

We hope that you now have a better idea of how to make your next Ottawa move cheaper and greener. Looking for a trusting moving company to help with the process? Reach out for free estimate.