New services: less is more

I’ve stood in countless homes, watching families pack up years of their lives into boxes. Each time, I notice the same thing: people moving items they don’t need – adventure gear, forgotten gadgets, piles of children’s artwork, books, toys – the list goes on. The reason? Emotional attachment or the overwhelming task of deciding where to start. The result is always the same: wasted time, wasted money, and unnecessary resources being transported during their move.

This is where an untapped business potential lies for the moving industry. By embracing more environmentally responsible practices, we can reduce waste while creating fresh business opportunities. By prioritising what we move, how we move it, and what we leave behind, we can improve the process, boost efficiency, and generate more business with happier clients.

Traditionally, the moving industry’s business model relies on the volume of items moved to determine profit margins. Yet transporting excess belongings is wasteful – environmentally, and in terms of time and resources.

Reducing container loads purely for sustainability isn’t always feasible either. But here’s the shift: instead of focusing solely on volume, let’s focus on better moves. By helping clients make mindful decisions about what to move, we can cut down on carbon emissions, conserve resources, and improve their overall experience.

This doesn’t have to mean cutting prices either. Instead, we can replace lost volumes with value-added services such as decluttering, coaching, packing and unpacking. These services enhance customer satisfaction, align with sustainability goals and set you apart from your competition.

No longer a trend but a demand

Today’s home buyers and renters are more conscious than ever of the environmental impact of their actions and want efficient and eco-friendly moves. Clients are seeking companies that reduce waste, cut down on unnecessary transport and prioritise sustainability.

As sustainability goals become more stringent, governments are increasingly putting sustainability at the forefront of their tender processes, too. Companies increase their chances of winning public sector contracts when they meet environmental standards. Meanwhile, major companies are recognising that sustainability is not just about reducing carbon footprint. As they integrate sustainability into their corporate social responsibility (CSR) policies, corporations are looking for industry partners that embody the same standards and values in their moves.

There’s a win-win here for everyone. By reframing the way we approach moves, the benefits can be unlocked for clients, movers and the planet.

For movers, this means:

• More accurate quotes and smoother transactions. Fewer items means cutting unexpected costs and boosting client trust.
• Happier crews, more efficient moves. Decluttered homes/offices reduce labour costs and mean shorter move times.
• Competitive advantage. Sustainability sets your business apart, aligning with eco-goals.

For clients:

• More intentional choices. Clients can leave behind unnecessary items, creating a more organised, purposeful space in their new home.
• Less stress, greater satisfaction. Moving fewer items simplifies the process, reducing stress.
• Sustainability in action and emotional fulfilment. Making mindful decisions about what to keep boosts emotional wellbeing.

For the planet:

• Reducing emissions. Reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
• Reducing packaging and transport.

The future of sustainable moving

As environmental challenges grow, it’s clear that the way we move must evolve. By embracing a more intentional approach, we can create better service, reduce waste and lower our carbon footprint – without sacrificing quality or revenue.

Together, we can turn this challenge into a powerful movement, reshaping the industry for a more sustainable, efficient, and thoughtful future.