Is Planning a Plastic-Free Relocation Possible?

Relocation is more than just logistics; it’s an opportunity to rethink the plastic waste that’s become synonymous with the process and explore whether a sustainable, plastic-free move is truly achievable.

• By Samantha Jacobson
• Feb 20, 2025

Relocation is rarely a simple task. Coordinating logistics and meeting tight deadlines while ensuring the items arrive safely are just the beginning. Yet, another challenge often goes overlooked: the sheer amount of plastic waste. From endless rolls of bubble wrap to layers of plastic tape, moving has become synonymous with disposable materials. But is it possible to break free from this reliance on plastic? Could we rethink how relocations eliminate plastic, or has it become an unavoidable part of the process? Today, we will examine whether planning a plastic-free relocation is truly within reach—or if sustainability in this context will remain an ideal rather than a reality.

The Prevalence of Plastic in Relocation

Plastic dominates the moving industry for a number of reasons. After all, it is lightweight, durable, and cost-effective.

These qualities make it a convenient choice for protecting belongings during transport, especially fragile items like glassware, electronics, or furniture.

However, this convenience comes at a huge cost to the environment. Plastic waste from relocations often ends up in landfills, contributing to long-term pollution.

But is using plastic during moves necessary? Not necessarily, and let's explore how!

Exploring the Feasibility of a Plastic-Free Move

As mentioned, the idea of an entirely plastic-free relocation is ambitious but not impossible.

Nevertheless, the feasibility depends on several factors, such as:

• The scope of the move
• Availability of alternatives
• Willingness to embrace creative solutions.

Not to mention, going plastic-free is not without its challenges. For instance, there are:

• Durability and safety concerns Plastic is widely used to protect fragile items due to its durability." Replacing it with materials like paper or fabric may sometimes work but often requires more volume to achieve the same level of security. That can increase costs and add logistical complexity.
• Alternatives are limited. Eco-friendly materials like biodegradable packing supplies or reusable crates are not yet universally accessible. These options may be hard to find in smaller towns or rural areas, forcing movers to rely on conventional materials.
• Higher initial costs. Sustainable alternatives often have a higher price tag. For instance, renting reusable crates or purchasing biodegradable tape can cost more upfront than their plastic counterparts. This financial barrier makes going plastic-free less feasible for those on a budget.

Where Planning a Plastic-Free Relocation Might Work

While it's difficult to say goodbye to plastic completely, there are scenarios where a plastic-free relocation is more achievable, including:

• Small-scale moves—Relocations involving fewer items, such as a single-room apartment or a small office, may require less packing material overall. This smaller scale makes relying on eco-friendly options like fabric, cardboard, or recyclable paper easier.
• Local moves - shorter distances reduce the need for heavy-duty packing materials. For example, furniture can be covered with blankets rather than plastic wrap, and boxes can be secured with paper-based tape.
• Access to sustainable suppliers - In areas where eco-friendly packing materials and reusable crates are readily available, the transition to a plastic-free move becomes far more realistic.
• Moves focused on minimalism - Relocations that prioritize minimalism reduce the volume of moving items. With fewer possessions to pack, the reliance on plastic materials decreases significantly, making eco-friendly solutions simpler to implement.
• Projects with ample lead time - Relocations planned well in advance are more likely to succeed in reducing plastic use. Extended timelines allow for sourcing alternatives, coordinating reusable supplies, and collaborating with partners who can provide eco-friendly materials.

A question of mindset

Truthfully, the possibility of a plastic-free relocation depends on mindset and logistics. Those willing to invest time and effort into sourcing alternatives and rethinking traditional packing methods can drastically reduce their reliance on plastic. However, it is essential to acknowledge that perfection may not always be possible—and that’s okay.

Rather than aiming for a 100% plastic-free move, the focus should shift toward reducing plastic use wherever it is feasible. This approach balances practicality with sustainability, ensuring the move remains efficient while minimizing its environmental impact.

The Verdict: Possible, But With Limits

So, is planning a plastic-free relocation possible? The answer lies somewhere in the middle. While it is unlikely that every aspect of a move can be entirely plastic-free, significant strides can be made toward reducing its use. The key is approaching the process with intention, exploring alternatives, and making compromises where necessary. Ultimately, even partial efforts to reduce plastic waste during a move contribute to a larger cultural shift toward sustainability.