There are several essential tools in the mover’s arsenal. Boxes, bubble wrap, and tape are certainly necessities, but you also can’t forget to buy a couple of big black markers. The importance of boldly labeling all those brown boxes might be easy to overlook, but you’ll kick yourself later. Imagine trying to find something in a pile of boxes labeled with an all but invisible ballpoint pen!

Of course, your big black marker could be any color you like. It just has to be noticeable. The labels you write won’t help you if the ink isn’t clearly visible on the boxes. That means you should also label the boxes on the top as well as the sides for easy identification.

Moving is a hectic time filled with quick fixes and “get it done” answers. But a few well thought out ideas can help relieve a lot of the stress and confusion of your moving day. The big black marker could be the end of turning your boxes around and around looking for that all but hidden “Kitchen” tag.

Between the packing materials and the fuel usage, moving in an environmentally friendly way can be a challenge. With a little planning, however, there are ways to lesson the impact on the environment.

• Reduce the amount of packing materials and the total weight of your belongings by not moving unwanted items. Moving tips always suggest donating, selling or throwing away items before you move. This not only saves you time and expense, but it is also a significant way to reduce the environmental impact of your move.
• That being said, sort through your belongings early. This will allow you to estimate more accurately the number of boxes you will need. Don’t wait until you’re packing.
• Start saving bubble wrap, cardboard boxes, padded envelopes, newspaper and other packing materials to reuse as packing materials. Use towels, bedding and pillows to cushion breakable items.
• Call retail stores and ask if you can pick up boxes they would otherwise discard. Call first, both to avoid driving around looking for boxes and to ask if the lids are still attached. Retailers often cut the tops off boxes to expedite unpacking. Also, ask if they have packing material you can reuse. Companies that sell new boxes also realize the importance of reuse and many accept and redistribute used boxes for free.
• Look into renting plastic moving crates. Depending on where you live and how far you’re moving, that may be an option.
• Once you’ve unpacked, dispose of boxes responsibly. Post them online at Craig’s List or Freecycle for pick-up and reuse. Your moving company may pick them up for recycling as part of their service. Find a U-Haul location that accepts used boxes for re-use.
• Reduce your electricity usage going forward. Don’t pack your old light bulbs unless they are energy-efficient. If you haven’t done it already, now is the time to make the switch.
• Moving also means house cleaning. Use nontoxic, biodegradable cleaners.
• As furniture is being loaded and your doors are open, turn off your AC or heating unit to avoid wasting electricity and natural gas.
• As you notify companies of your new address, take the time to remove yourself from unwanted catalog mailing lists.
• When you’re transferring or setting up household services such as high-speed internet, cable TV or satellite TV, phone service, natural gas, electricity and waste, sign up for e-billing.
• Depending on where you live, there may be moving companies that use low-emission, fuel-efficient trucks powered by bio-diesel. Regardless, consider the size and type of truck or trailer necessary for your move and its fuel-efficiency.