How to Pack Kids’ Toys When Moving

Last Updated on September 24, 2025 by Kari-Ann Ryan

Moving with children is a unique challenge. Toys are not simply objects; they carry emotional value, spark creativity, and provide comfort during transitions. Over years of experience helping families relocate, we have developed methods for packing toys that protect their condition and make the process manageable for parents and children alike.

Here’s our 7-step process, offering detailed strategies and professional insight that families can trust.

1. Assess and Categorize Every Toy

Before packing begins, it is essential to take stock of every item. We separate toys into functional groups: soft toys, board games, building sets, dolls, action figures, and electronic devices. Each category requires a different approach to ensure protection during transit. For electronic toys and devices, we follow careful packing strategies—similar to our detailed guide on packing electronics safely—to prevent damage during the move. We also identify high-priority items—those your children use daily or hold sentimental value. These receive careful handling and are unpacked first at the destination. Including children in this assessment helps them feel involved, encourages decision-making, and can reduce overall volume by setting aside items no longer in use.

2. Choose the Right Materials for Protection

The materials you use play a major role in preserving toys:

• Small to medium boxes are easier to handle and reduce the risk of crushing delicate items.
• Clear plastic bins allow children or parents to see the contents quickly, which is especially useful for frequently used toys.
• Soft padding such as bubble wrap, packing paper, or towels prevents damage to fragile items like dolls, electronic toys, or collectibles.
• Ziplock bags and small containers keep miniature components together and organized.

3. Pack by Toy Type and Function

Packing toys strategically by type ensures items remain safe and organized:

• Soft toys: Wash if necessary and layer carefully to maintain shape. Overpacking can flatten and damage them.
• Construction sets and building toys: Keep pieces together in labeled bags to avoid losing essential components.
• Board games and puzzles: Place loose pieces in bags within the original boxes to preserve sets and prevent misplacement.
• Dolls and action figures: Wrap each item individually to prevent scratches and broken parts.
• Electronic toys: Remove batteries, secure cords separately, and cushion electronics to protect them from impact.

4. Create a “First-Day” Toy Box

We recommend preparing a dedicated box with essential items that children will need immediately:

• Include favorite toys or comfort items, such as stuffed animals or dolls.
• Add books, puzzles, or small games for entertainment during the first hours.
• Keep the box accessible during transport to help children feel grounded in a new environment.

5. Protect Toys During Transport

Even well-packed toys can be compromised if they are not handled carefully. We implement the following measures to safeguard them:

• Cushion fragile items thoroughly within boxes.
• Separate heavy and lightweight toys to prevent crushing.
• Clearly label boxes containing delicate items to guide movers.
• Place boxes in secure areas of the moving vehicle to avoid moisture or shifting during transit.

6. Involve Children in the Packing Process

Engaging children in the packing process can make the experience more manageable and educational:

• Encourage children to help sort and label their toys.
• Use color-coded labels or stickers to make the activity more interactive.
• Explain why certain items need careful handling and where they will be placed in the new home.

7. Unpack Strategically

The way toys are unpacked is just as important as packing:

• Begin with the first-day toy box to provide immediate familiarity and comfort.
• Set up play areas first so children can interact with their toys and establish routine.
• Use shelves, cubbies, and bins to maintain organization long-term.
• Rotate toys periodically to sustain interest and prevent clutter from accumulating.

How Should You Handle Special Types of Toys When Moving?

Some toys require extra attention due to their size, fragility, or complexity. Below, we share expert strategies for handling special types of toys during a move.

Fragile Collectibles

Collectibles, whether action figures, dolls, or keepsakes, are often irreplaceable. We recommend wrapping each item individually with bubble wrap or soft packing paper and placing them in small, sturdy boxes with cushioning on all sides. Label these boxes clearly as “Fragile” and make sure they’re not stacked under heavier items during the move. This simple step protects sentimental value and prevents damage.

Board Games and Puzzles

Board games with multiple pieces or puzzles can quickly become disorganized. Place all loose pieces in resealable bags before returning them to the original boxes. Label the bags clearly by game or puzzle name, and consider numbering or color-coding boxes that contain several sets. This ensures games are ready to play immediately after unpacking and prevents small pieces from getting lost.

Electronic Toys

Electronic toys, learning devices, or tablets need careful handling. Always remove batteries to prevent corrosion and wrap cords separately to avoid tangling or damage. Cushion devices inside boxes with packing paper or foam to protect against bumps, and clearly label the boxes so movers know they require special care.

Educational Toys and STEM Kits

Toys with small, intricate parts such as science kits or building sets need organized packing. Place each component in labeled bags or small containers, and provide cushioning for fragile pieces. Keeping everything together prevents frustration and allows kids to use their educational toys immediately in the new home.

Large or Outdoor Toys

Bigger items like ride-on toys, scooters, or outdoor play equipment require a slightly different approach. Clean items before moving, disassemble when possible, and store screws or small parts in labeled bags. Wrap large items in moving blankets or protective covers, and secure them in the truck to prevent scratches or shifting.

Our Expertise in Safely Moving Families and Kids’ Toys

At Mid-West Moving & Storage, we’ve spent many years helping families move from one home to another, and in that time, we’ve learned just how important toys are to children during a move. Toys are more than just playthings—they provide comfort, keep routines steady, and help kids feel safe in unfamiliar surroundings. Let us handle the moving and packing so your family can focus on settling in. If you want to know how much a move will cost, including packing your children’s toys, you can use our free online moving and packing calculator to get an instant estimate—no strings attached.

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