How to Pack Shoes for Moving Long-Distance in the Most Effective Way

March 18, 2021 / Posted in How-to
Blake Shaw

Bostonian and residential moving and packing expert. Blake Shaw enjoys bar-hopping, music, and writing insightful content.

How to pack shoes for moving? Maybe this sounds like an unnecessary question, but the truth is that you should take some time to stow all of your pairs properly. Why? Well, if you just gather boots, slippers, and sandals and place them into a bag, it is not given that you’ll be able to put them on later. If you’re wondering how long before moving should you start packing, add to the list one more question – what is the best way to pack shoes for moving.

girl packing shoes
Have you ever wondered how to store your favorite pair of sneakers when relocating? Keep reading and find out how to stow different types of footwear

When getting organized to move, don’t forget all your footwear. Or maybe just those you like to wear. If you possess numerous pairs, think about how to pack shoes for a move when there are tons of sneakers and clogs you have to put away somewhere. But, just like you know how to box up purses, you will also manage to store footgear. With the right moving tips and relocation hacks, this process can be as easy as winking. Fortunately, our words of advice will help you do this efficiently and safely. Even more, by following these tips, you’ll feel great when it comes to unpacking after the move because your footwear will be in the same condition as before the packaging.

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First Step When Wondering How to Pack Shoes for Moving – Get the Packing Supplies

If you want to protect your footwear during the cross-country moving, you’ll have to get the packaging materials. So, when planning the best way to pack shoes for moving, what types of supplies should you obtain? Follow our list of suggestions:

  • Large packages,
  • Old shoeboxes,
  • Packing paper,
  • Bubble wrap (for high heels),
  • Marker,
  • Duct tape.
Enough cushioning and strong packages - that’s the most important to store your footgear safely
If you have all the necessary supplies to store your footgear properly, expect it will be as good as new after unpacking

How Do You Pack Shoes? Before You Start, Use These Tips

You know that your relocation means a fresh start. Whether you’re moving from a small town to a big city or even relocating from a house into an apartment, your mindset is probably the same – you want everything to be clean, new, and with a purpose. The same goes for your footwear. You probably don’t need all those slippers, boots, and plimsolls. Some of them are worn-out and old, and others you do not even like anymore. So, there’s no better reason than relocation to declutter and decide what to bring with you and what to leave behind. It is also advantageous when wondering where to start and when to begin packing for a move.

Decide What to Donate, Recycle, or Throw in the Trash

Have you already organized a garage sale? If not, it can be an excellent opportunity to sell some of your old possessions, including footgear, and earn extra money. It’s a good idea to go through your pairs and decide what to do with them. Some among them are definitely ready to be disposed of. Donating unwanted items, you can give away toys, books, and anything else to some charity organization. Of course, there is always a possibility of recycling them instead of throwing them. Think about this option if your sneakers are still in good shape.

Categorize Your Shoes

It’s always useful to sort your footwear into several categories. You can create several groups such as seasonal, casual, formal, and others. Also, if you want to be more precise and go into details, you can sort them into flip-flops, slippers, sneakers, boots, high heels, stilettos, and more. This can help you pack easier and organize your move appropriately.

Make Sure Your Pairs Are Clean and Dry

If you have plenty of footgear and relocating long-distance, you might want to put them in a storage unit. This useful service will help you if you do not have enough space in your new home or your home is not ready yet. Still, if your footwear stands in storage for too long, make sure it’s spotless and dry. Check if your pairs are as dry as a bone in order to avoid any mold developing while they are stored. This also applies if you’re relocating and bringing them with you.

So, whether you’re long-distance moving to New York or you are going to California, keep in mind that every cross-country moving requires you to be careful when it comes to shoe packaging. To avoid some unpleasant things to do after relocation, such as dealing with moldy footwear, use anti-bacterial spray or rubbing alcohol.

What’s the Best Way to Pack Shoes When Moving?

So, finally, let’s find out how to pack shoes. One of the essential things when relocating long-distance is to preserve their natural shape. You can achieve this by stuffing them with packing paper or a pair of rolled-up socks. This tip will serve double-duty since, that way, you are stowing socks as well, and at the same time. Also, your footwear can be excellent storage for small electronic devices. Gadgets will be safe inside, and your boots will remain in the same shape as when they were purchased.

Another hack is related to stowing high heels. The heels should be put in bubble wrap to prevent them from cracking during transportation. If stilettos are pricey and luxurious pieces, consider wrapping each shoe separately in packing paper or paper towels. It is recommended to avoid using newspapers as they can leave a stain.

Black Converse
If you still possess the original packaging, you can rest assured that your footwear will reach your new home intact

How Do You Pack Shoes Without a Box?

This entire process is a no-brainer in case you have original shoe boxes. It is a convenient approach if you need to put away pricier and nicer pairs – then you’ll have peace of mind. If you threw out most of the shoeboxes, you could use plastic shoe bins. They are more durable, and you do not need to worry whether they will get smashed during the trip.

Of course, it is another story when it comes to the footwear that experienced some wear and tear. It does not require so much care and impeccable packaging. In short, if you think about things to do before moving in time and go through some hands-on advice about stowing footgear without original packages, your stowing process will be smooth and straightforward.

So, let’s find out more about how to transport your boots and sneakers without original packages.

Start Packing With Heavier Pairs and Place Lighter Pieces on Their Sides

There are two rules when stowing shoes: first, do not overload the boxes, and the second, place heavy pairs on the bottom. Of course, check the strength of the bottom and cover it with a layer of cushion. After placing the heavier footgear, use another sheet of paper before you place the next pairs. Always check package weight in order to avoid bending and cracking. In the end, tape the box and label it on the sides. Make sure that nothing gets on the top of the package when loading in the truck starts. This way, you will save your footwear from smashing.

You Can Use a Closet Door Shoe Organizer

Another handy solution in case you don’t have enough space for bulky boxes is to use a closet door shoe hanger for transportation. It’s easy to use and even easier for packing inside the truck – just place the hanger over other packages. So, if you’re looking for some of the cheapest ways to move out of state as well as how to move efficiently, this hack is valuable.

Leave Your Shoes in the Air Before the Moving Day

Did you know that the sun’s UV rays literally kill bacteria? So, take advantage of UV power and leave your footwear in the afternoon sun. Is there any preparation for getting rid of any lingering odors? Unlace, lift the tongue, and leave your leather or suede footwear as much as possible in the open air. This natural odor eliminator is totally free and straightforward, so why not take advantage of it. In case this method does not fully exterminate the stench, try the following tip.

Tea Bags Will Help In Case of Unpleasant Smells

Who doesn’t like to drink mint tea? Probably every household has at least one box with fragrant tea bags. Use them to fresh the inside of your shoes. And there’s plenty of other teabags you can put in your pairs depending on your preferences. Some like orange or lavender scents, while others prefer black tea or fruit fragrances. Be creative and try them all to see the best results.

One of the Best Tips: Use Wine Boxes With Dividers

What are things people forget when relocating? Probably to be practical and efficient as much as possible. For that reason, we decided to show you an excellent tip on how to store all your footwear in several minutes and provide it with safe packaging. It’s simple – get wine boxes from your local liquor store. They have dividers for bottles that are perfect for storing a shoe into each section. If you are wondering how to fit high heels, it’s feasible too. Just slip the heel over the divider and use two sections instead of one.

Pile of boxes
Bottle dividers can do wonders for your footgear - you will pack your pair of sneakers, slippers, and high heels easily

With Professional Long-Distance Movers, Packing Shoes for Moving Turns Into a Piece of Cake

If you’re not using long-distance moving services, you need to think about so many things – from preparing a checklist for moving to another state to organizing everything on your own. And there’s opting for reliable cross-country movers. With professionals, you will get complete assistance related to all your relocation needs.

You won’t need to worry about the packaging because their packing service will meet all your requirements. Also, if you’ve never experienced car shipping and you’re not sure how it works, don’t worry. Check your prospective movers, make sure they are experts, and leave auto transport services to them. They will take care of your vehicle correctly. And if you need to face commercial relocation but don’t have time and energy to perform all the relocation tasks, packing footwear included, leave this work to professionals. You can expect flexible pricing options and a stress-free experience.

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