Toys aren’t just “stuff.” For kids, they’re a symbol of comfort and imagination. For adults, they might be prized collectibles like a rare Lego set or an entire wall of Funko Pops. Whether you’re moving across the country or simply trying to get organized at home, toy storage matters. If you’re an avid toy collector, or just happen to have young children with toys that they are very attached to (we’ve all had a kiddo with a special stuffed animal), it can be scary to think about stuffing these things into boxes, tossing them into a truck, and hoping they make it safely across the country in a long distance move.
At National Van Lines, we’ve seen firsthand how proper toy storage can make a move smoother and less stressful. This guide walks through how to prep toys for a move, and the best ways to keep them safe in storage.
Why Does Toy Storage Matter in a Long Distance Move?
Every toy holds a story. Maybe it’s a stuffed animal that’s been at your child’s side since their first birthday. Maybe it’s a carefully built shelf of collectibles that reminds you of a favorite movie or game. When toys are damaged, you lose the item, its value, and the memories or pride connected to it.
Good storage helps you:
- Protect toys from damage, dust, or moisture.
- Stay organized when packing or unpacking.
- Avoid the stress of searching for a “must-have” favorite on moving day.
- Prevent potential damage from shifting boxes in transit.
- Make it easier to prevent drops and spills during packing/unpacking.
How Do I Prepare Toys for a Move?
When a move is on the horizon, take time to prepare toys before the packing starts. This is especially important if you’re moving long distance, and want to ensure that everything remains organized and secure on a particularly long journey.
Start with sorting and decluttering. Encourage kids to choose which toys will “go on the adventure” to the new home and which can be donated. For adults, review your collection and decide what to keep, sell, or gift.
Clean and dry everything before boxing. Even a small amount of dirt or moisture can cause stains or mildew when packed away. For sets with tiny pieces, seal them in labeled bags and tape them to the main toy or box.
If you still have original packaging for collectibles, use it. Original boxes offer both protection and resale value if you ever decide to part with your collection.
How Do I Pack and Protect Different Types of Toys For a Long Distance Move?
How you pack toys depends on what kind you’re moving or storing. Each type has its own quirks, and the right approach helps everything arrive safe and ready to enjoy.
Stuffed animals and plush toys
Clean them before packing to prevent odors or stains. For space-saving, vacuum-sealed bags work well, but leave one favorite out for the trip to keep kids comforted. If you’re an adult collecting plush toys— like the viral Labubu doll— think about the extra packing supplies you might want to get to truly protect and preserve the fabric.
Dolls and action figures
Small accessories and clothing are easy to misplace. Store them in labeled bags, then wrap figures individually if they’re fragile. For collectors, original packaging adds both protection and value, so use it whenever possible.
Board games and puzzles
Prevent lost pieces by taping game boxes shut. Store them flat to keep boards from warping, and bag puzzle pieces, cards, or tokens in resealable bags.
Building sets (i.e. Legos and model kits)
Large builds can break apart in transit, so it’s usually best to disassemble. Place pieces in labeled bags by section for easier reassembly. For delicate models, cushion with bubble wrap or packing paper.
High-value collectibles (i.e. rare figures and vintage toys)
Packaging is often part of the item’s worth. Protect boxes with plastic sleeves or fitted containers, and store them upright. Climate-controlled storage is especially important for these items to prevent warping or fading.
General packing tips
- Use sturdy boxes with dividers to separate fragile items.
- Wrap breakable toys in bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent scratches.
- Label boxes clearly with details like “Kids’ Room—Toys” or “Fragile—Collectibles” so they’re handled carefully and unpacked in the right spot.
By combining careful packing with toy-specific strategies, you’ll protect both the objects and the memories or pride connected to them.
Storing Toys in Long-Term or Temporary Storage
Sometimes toys need to be stored for months or even years during a move, a remodel, or while transitioning between homes.
For short-term storage, sturdy plastic bins are usually enough. They resist moisture and pests better than cardboard. For long-term or high-value items, look for a climate-controlled storage unit. Consistent temperature and humidity prevent warping, fading, or mold.
Shelving is better than stacking heavy boxes, which can crush fragile items. And for easy retrieval later, consider making an inventory list or snapping quick photos of each bin’s contents. A little organization upfront saves you the headache of digging through dozens of boxes later.
Expert Tip: Here at National Van Lines, we recommend that you find climate controlled storage if your items will remain there more than a few weeks during a major move.
When to Call in the Long Distance Moving Experts
Some collections need more than a DIY approach. Professional movers can pack and transport toys safely, especially fragile or high-value pieces. For serious collectors, movers can even arrange specialized crating or padding to protect rare items.
If storage is part of your move, many moving companies also offer secure facilities designed to keep items safe long-term. Choosing these services provides peace of mind knowing your child’s favorite stuffed animal or your rare collectibles are fully protected.
Toy Storage That Moves With You
Toys have always played a big role in our lives, and moving them has never been simple. Even with the best intentions, it’s easy for pieces to go missing or favorite items to get scuffed along the way.
Today, families and collectors have more resources and storage options than ever. From breathable bags for plush toys to climate-controlled units for valuable collectibles, the focus is on protecting both the items and the memories tied to them.
Looking ahead, toy storage will keep evolving into something more thoughtful and intentional. With a little planning, your toys can stay safe from one home to the next, ready to bring comfort, joy, and pride wherever life takes you.
You just learned how to store toys and collectibles, and keep them protected during a move. In the spirit of organizing, your next step is to learn more about the general process of decluttering before a move.
