Spotting a green moving company isn't really that difficult if you know what to look for. Moving companies often provide trucks, boxes, packing supplies, and other items to aid in your move. The easiest way to know if you're using a green moving company is to look at the options they offer.

The Type of Boxes Offered

Cardboard boxes are not the most eco-friendly option. Most green moving companies, like Chicago GreenBox, will offer reusable moving boxes. These eco-friendly moving boxes offer a better choice than cardboard for the environment, the protection of your things, and for your wallet, in some cases.

Green moving companies don't use much if any cardboard because it's not reusable like plastic moving boxes. This is the first sign you're using a green moving company.

Biodiesel Trucks

Most moving trucks used by moving companies will run on diesel fuel. This type of fuel puts harmful toxins into the air we breathe and pollutes the earth.

Green moving companies will use trucks that run on biodiesel fuel. This type of fuel will burn cleaner and it's made from renewable sources, such as vegetable oils. They may also have trucks with battery-operated lift gates to ensure trucks don't need to idle while using the liftgate.

Eco-Friendly Packing Supplies

A green moving company will offer eco-friendly packing supplies made from recycled materials and/or recyclable. Green movers offer plenty of packing supplies you can use and most will be able to be recycled when you’re done. In addition, by offering plastic reusable boxes, you won't need nearly as much packing tape, which isn't recyclable.

Plastic moving boxes seal without the need for tape or adhesive. These boxes help to make your move greener and the moving company more eco-friendly.

Offer or Recommend Green Storage Facilities

Sometimes, when you move, you need a storage unit temporarily or for the length of your time in your new home. Green moving companies may also offer green storage facilities. If they don't, they should be able to recommend a green facility for your storage needs.

A Strong Commitment to the Community

A sign of many green moving companies is their commitment to the local community. When they decide to be an eco-friendly moving company, they have already decided they care about the community.

In addition, most green moving companies will show an even bigger commitment to the local community through charity, sponsorships, and the spread of environmental awareness. If a moving company has a strong commitment to the community, there's a good chance they employ eco-friendly practices.

There are several things to look for when you want to know if you're using a green moving company. Some will even be certified as eco-friendly, while others may not advertise their green practices as much.

Usually, asking about the type of fuel used in their trucks and the type of moving boxes they offer will give you a clear picture of whether they are a green moving company or a traditional moving company. If you want to make sure you use a green moving company for your next move, this article will help you figure it out.