Moving is a stressful time, filled with mounting duties and never-ending "to-do" lists as you try to figure out the best and safest method to store all of your precious items. You've considered how you'll transport your huge electronics, fragile dishes and glassware, and appliances.

But what about your footwear? People on the move frequently overlook the necessity of knowing how to pack shoes for relocating. They may wind up hurriedly placing things in a box or bag at the last minute, causing them to be scuffed, crumpled, or otherwise damaged. Follow these packing guidelines for shoes to keep them safe during your move.

Assess your shoe collection

The first step in learning how to pack footwear for a move is to make a strategy. Take a look through your present shoe collection before you start cleaning and packing them. Determine if there is anything you no longer require or desire. When do you realize it's time to let-go of your shoes? Consider the following questions:

• Is there a pair of shoes that is severely damaged and cannot be repaired? 
  

• Have you ever come across a pair of shoes that you forgot you possessed because you never wear them? Consider giving your shoes if you know you won't be wearing them in the near future.

Sort them into groups

Sorting your shoes into groups will help you pack more efficiently. Dress shoes, athletic shoes, and boots should all be split into groups. Simply place seasonal shoes in containers if you have any. Do this for each member of your family, and keep their shoe piles distinct. 

Clean them

Examine your shoes for any that require cleaning or minor repairs. Check to see whether any of them require new shoelaces or soles. Drop off any boots that need resoling at a shoe repair shop 4 to 6 weeks before your move to give yourself plenty of time to pick them up before moving day. Recondition leather shoes, such as boots. Use mild soap and water to clean sneakers and synthetic shoes.

Remove the Odor

Do you have any stinky shoes in your collection? Before you pack things up, make use of this opportunity to get rid of the smells. You may get rid of odors and freshen them up using a variety of methods, including:

• Put your shoes in a freezer.
• To absorb odors, use citrus peel such as lemon or orange.
• Put some baking soda in them overnight to neutralize the odors, then discard the powder the next day.
• Consider packing your shoes with a dry tea bag if they aren't entirely dry.

Place shoes in their original boxes

Taking precautions to avoid damage is an essential step in learning how to pack shoes for relocating. Packing shoes in their original boxes or small moving boxes is an excellent way to avoid crushing your shoes. Fill every shoe with socks, or packing clean paper, to retain its shape. For high boots, use boot trees or rolled magazines. Protect your designer or nicer shoes against scuffs by wrapping every shoe with paper or stretching the wrap before placing it in a box.

Planning for a move? Need assistance for packing your belongings contact the Packers and Movers in CT