Before you move
1. Declutter first
Before you start packing, take stock. What do you really want to bring with you?
Getting rid of stuff before you move avoids wasting time, energy, and money on packing, moving, and unpacking stuff you don’t want or use.
Host a garage sale, donate items, or give them away.
2. Use what you have to pack
Fill suitcases, backpacks, storage tubs, and laundry bins. Wrap fragile items in towels or newspaper.
3. Borrow or reuse boxes
Ask local stores for used boxes or check community boards. Some companies rent sturdy plastic crates.
After you move
1. Unpack slowly and creatively.
You might find new ways to use old items. No need to buy everything right away.
2. Get to know your neighborhood reuse spots.
Find your nearest library, donation spots, tool library, repair cafes, and reuse stores like the ReBuilding Center or SCRAP.
3. Keep sharing and donating.
If you unpack something you don’t need, pass it on! Someone else might love it.
Read our full new home checklist
Why it matters
Each time you reuse an item, share with a neighbor, or skip a new purchase, you're helping to conserve energy, protect natural resources, and reduce pollution from manufacturing and shipping [EPA].