How to Pack Shoes: 5 Methods to Try

Moving can be time-consuming, so it can be tempting to cut corners when packing. But it’s vital that you learn how to pack shoes so they get to your new home safely. Since shoes come in various sizes and shapes, they can be a bit tricky to pack. 

Plus, there are some vital steps you should take to prepare your shoes before packing them. Learn the best ways to pack shoes using various methods, plus tips for simplifying the process.

Why Is It Important to Pack Shoes Correctly?

Although our shoes get kicked around frequently and are pretty durable, packing them correctly is essential. It can keep them in good condition and prevent them from getting damaged over the course of the move. 

If you don’t pack them properly, shoes can get creases, bends, scuffs, and be crushed during transit. They can also retain moisture which can lead to mildew and foul-smelling shoes. 

The good news is packing and moving shoes is much easier than the larger items you will have to worry about, such as a piano, large appliances, or a shed. So, let’s dive into how to prepare your shoes before you pack them. 

How to Prepare Your Shoes for Packing

A large part of packing your shoes is preparing them beforehand. Here are a few things to do to protect your shoes:

• Clean your shoes: Make sure your shoes are clean before packing them. Use the correct cleaning method for the type of material your shoe is made of.

• Protect them from moisture: Use silica gel packets in each shoe before wrapping them to prevent moisture damage.

• Use packing paper to maintain shape: Stuff each shoe with clean packing paper or socks to maintain their shape and prevent them from getting crushed.

• Wrap shoes with packing paper or tissue paper: Protect shoes by wrapping them with tissue paper or packing paper. Some use bubble wrap, but sometimes this can trap moisture, so use it cautiously. 

How to Pack Shoes

There are a few different ways you can pack shoes to move. Here are the top ways to pack like a pro:

1. Pack Shoes in a Suitcase

If you have extra room or a spare suitcase, you can use it to pack your shoes. Put your shoes heel to toe before wrapping them in packing paper to conserve space. When packing boots, high heels, or wedges, place each shoe in an L shape, facing the other shoe in the pair. To take advantage of the space between each shoe, fill the gap with rolled clothing or a pair of socks. 

Utilize other compartments of the suitcase to pack flip-flops and sandals because they usually take up less space. This is an excellent method to pack shoes that makes them easy to access.

2. Put Shoes Into Moving Boxes

Since you already have moving boxes, this can be one of the easiest ways to pack shoes. Shoes can be heavy, so you may want to use more than one box if you have numerous pairs. After you prepare your shoes by stuffing and wrapping them with paper, load them into the box with the heaviest pairs on the bottom. 

Placing heavier pairs on the bottom will balance out the weight of the shoe-packed container.  Plus, it will make it easier to carry. Most importantly, you won’t risk damaging your lighter, more delicate shoes. If you skip wrapping paper on shoes such as sneakers, you can tie the laces together to keep the pair from separating. 

3. Store Shoes in a Plastic Tote

If you want a more sturdy option to pack shoes in, opt for plastic totes. However, you need to ensure you use the silica gel packets if you use this method because they can hold moisture. Totes come in a variety of shapes and sizes which can be fantastic for packing shoes.

You can find under-the-bed storage totes and even use them to save space to store your shoes in your new home. Plus, plastic totes keep critters and bugs out, providing extra protection for your shoes.

4. Get Savvy with Garbage Bags

If you are wondering how to pack shoes quickly, then add garbage bags to your moving supplies checklist. You should still prep them with packing paper so they maintain their shape and don’t get scuffs from being thrown into the bag loosely. 

Remember, if you have bulky or heavy shoes, consider using multiple bags so they don’t rip when moving them. It’s not the best method for protecting your shoes, so keep that in mind before going this route.

5. Use the Original Shoe Boxes

Using the original shoe boxes is how to pack shoes for ultimate protection. This method is best for high-end shoes or even for pairs you absolutely love. Packing them in shoe boxes takes up more space but provides more protection. 

You can also buy new shoe boxes if you don’t have the originals for the pairs you want to keep safe. If you have time, you can also check local retailers to see if they will donate free used boxes. 

4 Tips to Simplify the Process of Packing Your Shoes

Moving can be stressful, but you can make it easier with simple packing techniques and tips. Use these tips to pack shoes with ease:

• Declutter and Donate: The best time to downsize your belongings is when you move. Go through your shoes and declutter and donate any pairs that you don’t wear regularly or haven’t worn in over a year. 

• Sort shoes into categories: Streamline packing your shoes by sorting them into groups. Pack similar types together, such as boots, tennis shoes, and dress shoes. 

• Keep pairs together: Tying sneakers together with shoelaces and using packing paper will keep your shoes in place so you don’t lose any during the move. 

• Flip Shoes heel to toe: This step will conserve space and allow you to pack more pairs into the box, suitcase, or tote. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If you hire local movers to assist with your move, consider adding on packing and unpacking services for help with items like your shoe collection. Professional packers know how to pack shoes and other items correctly so they arrive safely. Plus, they save you time and reduce the stress of moving. 

Packing services for a home cost about $1,000 on average, but it can be much less if you have a smaller home or fewer possessions. Packing yourself can save money on labor costs, but it may be worth the investment if you have valuable shoes and other items that you don’t want to damage during your move.