If you've ever moved homes, you already know it’s not just about stuffing things into boxes. It's about strategy, efficiency, and protecting your belongings. Most people are familiar with basic packing tips—labeling boxes, wrapping fragile items, and using bubble wrap. But what about the lesser-known tricks that can save your time, money, and sanity?

From crystal chandeliers to your favorite sneakers, this guide uncovers clever moving hacks you probably haven’t heard of—including exactly how to pack shoes when moving to keep them clean, organized, and damage-free.

1. Shrink Wrap Your Dresser Drawers

Instead of emptying your dresser drawers into boxes, leave the clothes inside and wrap the entire dresser with stretch/shrink wrap. This not only saves time but also protects the drawers from sliding open during the move. Plus, you won’t need to re-fold everything after unpacking.

2. Take a Photo of Your Electronics Setup

Before unplugging your TV, computer, or gaming consoles, snap a picture of the back of each device. This simple hack makes reconnecting wires and HDMI cables a breeze—no guessing required.

3. Use Soft Items as Packing Material

Towels, blankets, and even t-shirts make excellent cushioning for fragile items. Wrap glasses, vases, and picture frames in these soft items instead of using only bubble wrap. It saves space and reduces the need for extra packing supplies.

4. Use Rolling Luggage for Heavy Items

Books, tools, and other heavy items can make boxes unbearable to carry. Instead, load them into wheeled suitcases to easily roll the weighty load instead of lifting it. Your back will thank you.

5. How to Pack Shoes When Moving – The Smart Way

Shoes are often an afterthought in the packing process. Most people throw them into bags or boxes where they get crushed, scuffed, or mixed up. But if you take a few extra steps, your footwear will arrive in your new home in perfect shape.

Here’s how to pack shoes when moving like a pro:

✅ Clean Them First

Before packing, make sure every pair is clean and completely dry. Dirt can damage other items, and moisture can lead to mildew during transport.

✅ Stuff Them to Keep Their Shape

Insert socks, tissue paper, or even bubble wrap inside each shoe. This helps preserve the shape, especially for leather shoes, boots, or high heels.

✅ Wrap Each Pair Individually

Use packing paper, cloth bags, or even old pillowcases to wrap shoes. Avoid newspaper, as ink can stain delicate materials.

✅ Use Original Boxes or Compartmentalized Containers

The best method is to use the original shoe boxes. If you don’t have them, consider buying clear plastic bins or using a moving box with cardboard dividers.

✅ Pack Heaviest on the Bottom

Layer shoes by weight—put heavy boots and sneakers at the bottom of the box and lighter shoes on top to prevent crushing.

✅ Label Accordingly

Don’t forget to label the box "Shoes" and indicate which room it belongs to. If you have special footwear (like designer shoes), mark the box as "Fragile" or "Handle with Care."

Knowing how to pack shoes when moving ensures your footwear stays organized, protected, and easy to find when you arrive.

6. Wrap Hanging Clothes in Trash Bags

Keep clothes on hangers by grouping 5–10 hangers together and sliding a large trash bag over them from the bottom up. Tie the bag at the hanger hooks to keep your wardrobe intact and clean.

7. Label Cords and Bag Screws

Disassembling furniture is often necessary, but reassembly can be a nightmare if you lose screws or can’t remember what goes where. Place all small hardware in zip-lock bags, label them, and tape them to the furniture piece. Use masking tape and a marker to label cords.

8. Chandelier Hack: Pool Noodles for the Win

Chandeliers and light fixtures are among the most delicate (and expensive) items to move. Wrap each arm of the chandelier with pool noodles or pipe insulation, then wrap the whole fixture in bubble wrap. Place it in a box filled with padding or hang it inside a custom crate.

9. Create a Color-Coding System

Assign each room a color (e.g., blue for bedroom, red for kitchen) and use colored stickers or tape on each box. This makes sorting and unloading much faster, especially if you have help.

10. Pack an "Open First" Box

Pack a single box with essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, phone chargers, medications, and—yes—a pair of shoes. This box should be the last one packed and the first one opened in your new place.

Final Thoughts

Moving doesn’t have to be chaotic. A few lesser-known tricks can make a massive difference in how smooth and stress-free your experience is. From saving space with creative wrapping to preventing damage with smart packing strategies, these hacks go beyond the basics.

And while it might seem like a small thing, knowing how to pack shoes when moving can make your life significantly easier. After all, when you get to your new place, the last thing you want is to be searching for a clean, intact pair of shoes among a pile of mismatched items.

With these unique moving hacks in your toolbox, you’ll be well on your way to a successful, organized, and frustration-free move.