Whether you have a small studio apartment or a sprawling five-bedroom home, moving always demands a large number of boxes. After unpacking and settling in, many people are faced with a daunting pile of empty boxes. Here are a few ideas on how to make the most of them.

What to Do With Used Moving Boxes

1. Recycle

Do the environment a favor by recycling moving boxes. Most communities and waste management companies provide recycling programs, so check with your local city hall or garbage collector to explore services in your area. Bear in mind that boxes will typically need to be broken down and flattened, and there may be restrictions on sizes and amounts.

2. Repurpose

Boxes can also be given a second life. Kids can turn them into forts or playhouses. Cats adore cardboard boxes and will quickly make them into cozy nests. You can cut boxes up and use them in arts and crafts projects, for mounting photographs or paintings, or to cover flooring during home painting or renovations. And you can always reuse the boxes as storage containers.

3. Compost

Composting old moving boxes will help vegetables, flowers, and other plant life flourish. The composting process can take several months before it's ready for use in the garden, but it’s worth the wait. Standard corrugated cardboard must first be torn up into small pieces, then mixed with carbon and nitrogen-rich materials, covered with soil, and turned regularly. It will be ready within six to eight months.

If you're planning a move, M. Dyer & Sons is here to help. For over 50 years, they’ve provided moving services throughout Hawaii, including Honolulu, Kaneohe, Kailua, Hawaii Kai, Kapolei, and Pearl Harbor. They also handle mainland and international moves and offer climate-controlled storage and shipping. Call (808) 456-4200 or visit them online for a full list of services.