As a sneaker collector, you undoubtedly have a safe place for each pair of shoes you own. There might be some you wear regularly, while others stay secure in a clean and protected spot because they’re too valuable to risk getting dirty.
Maybe you have an entire closet or room dedicated to your collection, with each pair properly labeled and stored to keep them in pristine condition.
However, inevitably, you may have to move at least some point in your lifetime, and it can be stressful enough packing up boxes and hauling your things to a new home.
In fact, moving is often touted as one of the most stressful life events you can go through. You shouldn’t be under even more stress thinking about how you’re going to keep your collection in top shape.
Let’s cover a few practical tips you can use to keep your sneaker collection organized and pristine throughout the moving process, even if you potentially have to downsize.
We’ll also cover how you can manage the decision-making stress often involved in a move, so you can feel calm and confident as you head to your new place.
Organization Is Key
Whether you currently have an organizational system in place for your collection or not, it’s essential when you move, or you’re going to have a major headache when it comes time to unpack.
As difficult as it might be to think about, one of the first things you should consider is downsizing. Even if you’re not necessarily moving to a smaller place, consider what you really need/want to take with you.
If there are things you can get rid of, you’ll have less to worry about throughout the moving process. Decluttering can be more cathartic than you think when it’s done the right way.
Start by packing your “must-haves” from your collection. Which shoes are your top priority, either because they’re the most valuable or they’re the ones you wear the most?
From there, you can continue to weed out different pairs in order of importance. You’ll eventually come down to a few that probably don’t mean a lot to you. That doesn’t mean they belong in the trash.
If you’ve worked hard to keep them in good condition, consider donating them, recycling them, or even selling them online to other sneaker enthusiasts.
If you can get a bit of money for your efforts, that can be used to help with the move or to purchase a new pair you’ve had your eye on for a while. Several organizations are always looking for gently used recycled shoes to help people in need.
When it comes to organizing the sneakers you’re taking with you, labeling is your friend. If you tend to keep your shoes in their original boxes, use painting tape or other types of labels that can be easily removed so you won’t damage the box.
If you keep your sneakers in plastic storage bins or other containers, you should be able to write directly on the bins. As you store them in larger moving boxes, use specific and clear labels, especially if you’re working with a moving company.
You’ll be able to know exactly where they are at all times and you can unpack them quickly when you arrive at your new place.
Keep Your Shoes Safe
If you’ve had your sneakers on display, how can you pack them safely so they won’t get dirty or deformed throughout the move?
Tossing them in a box together without any kind of protection could cause them to become misshapen — even if they’re made with durable materials.
Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to keep your shoes safe while packing:
- Sort them into groups/categories.
- Clean and repair, if necessary.
- Pack in original boxes whenever possible.
- Pack them in pairs and tie the laces together.
- Use bubble wrap and secure boxes with a rubber band if you’re shipping your shoes ahead of time.
Most importantly, make sure shoes and boxes are completely dry and safe before storing them. You’ll also want to make sure these boxes are safe from any moisture or humidity — even if you’re storing them indoors.
You can do this by using a dehumidifier and using fans in the areas where your shoes are being stored.
This may sound excessive but you’ve already invested a lot of time, effort, and money into your collection — don’t throw it away by getting lazy with your packing.
Reduce Stress Throughout the Moving Process
Don’t forget to manage your stress as much as possible while you’re moving. When you’re calmer, you’ll make better decisions about your belongings.
If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed by stress, try things like getting physically active, prioritizing sleep, and practicing mindfulness.
Additionally, you can eliminate some of the tasks often associated with moving, like hauling and transporting your belongings.
Consider hiring a moving company to help with the heavy lifting and transportation, and don’t be afraid to talk to them about the importance of your sneaker collection.
Most moving companies are experienced in handling fragile and valuable things, so they’ll be able to ensure your items get to their destination safely.
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Moving to a new place can be exciting, and your collection will have a fresh location to be on display.
Think about the positives associated with your upcoming move, keep these tips in mind, and you’ll keep your collection in top shape while keeping your stress levels low.
