Shoes are easy to forget when packing for a move. But footwear can get crushed, scuffed, or lose its shape if packed the wrong way. A little care keeps every pair in good shape. Here is a simple guide.
Sort Your Shoes First
Before you pack, go through all your footwear. A move is a good time to sort out what you keep.
Make three piles:
- Shoes you wear and want to keep
- Shoes to give away or donate
- Shoes that are worn out and can be thrown away
Packing fewer shoes saves space and effort.
Clean Before You Pack
Dirty shoes can spoil other items in the box. Clean each pair before packing.
Wipe off dust and mud. Let them dry fully. Packing damp shoes can cause a bad smell or even mould during the move.
Keep Shoes in Shape
Shoes can lose their shape when packed. A few simple tricks help them stay firm.
Stuff each shoe with paper or socks. This helps the shoe hold its shape and fills space. It works especially well for boots and formal shoes.
Use Shoe Boxes When You Can
The original shoe box is the best way to pack a pair. It protects the shape and keeps pairs together.
If you do not have the boxes, wrap each shoe in packing paper. Wrap them one at a time so they do not rub against each other and get scuffed.
Pack Heavy Shoes at the Bottom
When you put shoes in a moving box, think about weight.
Place heavy shoes like boots at the bottom. Put lighter shoes like sandals and flats on top. This stops delicate shoes from getting crushed.
Protect Special Footwear
Some shoes need extra care. Leather shoes, heels, and special-occasion footwear can damage easily.
Wrap these in soft cloth or tissue paper. Keep them in a separate box away from heavy items. For very valuable pairs, you may want to carry them with you.
Separate Shoes from Clothes
It is best not to pack shoes and clothes in the same box together.
Even clean shoes can leave marks on clothes. If you must pack them together, put the shoes in a sealed bag first to keep your clothes clean.
Label the Boxes
Mark each shoe box with "SHOES" and the room it goes to. If you sorted shoes by season, note that too.
This makes it easy to find the pairs you need first at the new home.
A Quick Shoe Packing Checklist
- Sort and reduce before packing
- Clean and dry each pair
- Stuff shoes to hold their shape
- Use shoe boxes or wrap each shoe
- Pack heavy shoes at the bottom
- Keep shoes separate from clothes
National Shifting packs every part of your home with care, right down to your footwear. Our team makes sure all your belongings arrive safely. Contact us today to book a complete and careful packing service.
