Broken glassware. Cracked mirrors. Shattered picture frames. Damaged electronics. These are the nightmares every homeowner faces during a move. The truth is, most moving damage occurs not during transportation but during improper packing.
Whether you’re moving across Dhaka or relocating to another city, knowing how to properly pack fragile items can save you money, stress, and heartbreak. This comprehensive guide will teach you professional packing techniques used by expert movers to ensure your delicate belongings arrive safely.
WHY PROPER PACKING MATTERS
The Cost of Improper Packing
Consider this: replacing a broken television costs ৳30,000-৳100,000. A shattered family heirloom? Priceless. Proper packing materials cost a fraction of replacement costs.
Common Causes of Damage:
- Insufficient cushioning material
- Wrong-sized boxes
- Improper weight distribution
- Items shifting during transit
- Box stacking pressure
- Inadequate protection for corners and edges
The Professional Difference: While DIY packing might seem cost-effective, professional packing services significantly reduce damage risk. Professional packers:
- Use industry-grade materials
- Follow proven techniques
- Have experience with every item type
- Provide insurance coverage
- Save you time and stress
ESSENTIAL PACKING MATERIALS
Before you start packing, gather the right supplies. Using proper materials is half the battle.
Must-Have Materials
Boxes:
- Small boxes (for heavy fragile items like books, dishes)
- Medium boxes (general household items)
- Large boxes (lightweight fragile items like lampshades)
- Dish pack boxes (extra-sturdy for china and glassware)
- Mirror/picture boxes (adjustable sizes)
- Wardrobe boxes (for hanging delicate garments)
Cushioning Materials:
- Bubble wrap (small and large bubble sizes)
- Packing paper (unprinted newsprint)
- Foam sheets
- Foam peanuts
- Air pillows
- Furniture blankets
Protection Materials:
- Corner protectors
- Edge guards
- Cardboard dividers
- Stretch wrap
- Strong packing tape (at least 2 inches wide)
- Packing tape dispenser
Labeling Supplies:
- Permanent markers (multiple colors)
- “Fragile” stickers
- “This Side Up” arrows
- “Handle with Care” labels
- Color-coded labels for rooms
Where to Get Supplies in Dhaka:
- New Market stationery shops
- Karwan Bazar packaging suppliers
- Online: Daraz, Pickaboo
- Free boxes: supermarkets (Shwapno, Agora) often give away boxes
Pro Tip: Never use old newspapers for wrapping. The ink can transfer and stain your items. Use proper packing paper or clean newsprint.
GENERAL FRAGILE PACKING PRINCIPLES
Before diving into specific items, understand these universal rules:
Rule 1: Heavier at Bottom, Lighter on Top
Always pack heavier fragile items at the box bottom and lighter ones on top. This prevents crushing.
Rule 2: Never Leave Empty Space
Empty spaces allow items to shift and collide. Fill all gaps with cushioning material.
Rule 3: Wrap Individually
Each fragile item should be wrapped separately before being placed together in a box.
Rule 4: Use the Right Box Size
Too large = items shift. Too small = items get crushed. Match box size to item appropriately.
Rule 5: Don’t Overpack
A box that’s too heavy will break from the bottom or be difficult to handle safely.
Rule 6: Label Clearly
Mark all sides of the box with “FRAGILE” and indicate which end is up.
Rule 7: Create Cushion Layers
Bottom layer, middle protection, and top cushion—three layers minimum.
PACKING GLASSWARE AND DISHES
Plates and Dishes
Step-by-Step Process:
- Prepare the Box
- Use a dish pack box (extra sturdy)
- Create 3-inch cushion layer at bottom with crumpled packing paper
- Line sides with bubble wrap
- Wrap Each Plate
- Place plate in center of packing paper
- Fold one corner over the plate
- Rotate and fold next corner
- Continue until plate is fully wrapped
- Secure with tape if needed
- For expensive china, add bubble wrap layer
- Pack Vertically
- Never stack plates flat!
- Stand plates on edge (like records in a box)
- Place heaviest plates at bottom
- Add cardboard dividers between plates
- Fill spaces with crumpled paper
- Final Protection
- Add 3-inch cushion layer on top
- Ensure no movement when box is shaken gently
- Seal and label clearly
Why Vertical? Plates on edge can handle more pressure than stacked flat plates.
Glasses and Cups
For Everyday Glassware:
- Stuff the Inside
- Crumple packing paper
- Stuff inside glass to prevent implosion
- Fill completely but don’t over-stuff
- Wrap Individually
- Start with glass upside down on paper
- Wrap from bottom, folding corners over
- Wrap stem separately for wine glasses
- Secure with tape
- Double Protection
- Add bubble wrap layer for expensive glasses
- Pay extra attention to handles and stems
- Box Packing
- Bottom cushion layer
- Place glasses upside down
- Use cell dividers if available
- Never let glasses touch each other
- Fill all gaps
- Top cushion layer
For Crystal and Expensive Glassware:
- Triple wrap (paper + bubble wrap + paper)
- Use individual boxes for very expensive pieces
- Consider professional packing services for valuable collections
Bowls
Nesting Method:
- Wrap each bowl individually
- Place packing paper between nested bowls
- Don’t nest more than 3-4 bowls
- Wrap the nested set again
- Pack with cushioning all around
PACKING ELECTRONICS
Electronics are both fragile and expensive. Extra care pays off.
Televisions and Monitors
Original Box Method (Best): If you still have the original box and foam inserts:
- Clean the screen gently
- Place foam corner protectors
- Put TV in original packaging
- Add “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP” labels
Without Original Box:
- Cover screen with soft cloth
- Add foam corner protectors
- Wrap entire TV in bubble wrap (3-4 layers)
- Place in appropriately sized box
- Fill gaps with foam peanuts
- Mark clearly “SCREEN – FRAGILE”
Pro Tip: Take photos of cable connections before unplugging. This makes setup at your new home much easier.
Computers and Laptops
Desktop Computers:
- Backup all data before moving
- Take photos of cable connections
- Remove and pack peripherals separately
- Wrap monitor as per TV instructions above
- Wrap CPU tower in bubble wrap
- Use anti-static bubble wrap if possible
- Pack in original box or sturdy carton
Laptops:
- Full system backup
- Remove battery if possible
- Close laptop and wrap in soft cloth
- Place in padded laptop bag or case
- Pack in small box with cushioning
- Never place heavy items on top
External Drives and Accessories:
- Wrap each item separately
- Use anti-static bags if available
- Pack cables in labeled zip-lock bags
- Keep all computer accessories together in one box
Small Electronics
Printers, Speakers, Gaming Consoles:
- Remove ink cartridges from printers
- Secure any moving parts with tape
- Wrap in bubble wrap
- Original box is ideal
- Fill empty spaces in box
- Label with contents
Dhaka Heat Consideration: If moving during summer, avoid leaving electronics in hot vehicles for extended periods. Heat can damage components.
PACKING ARTWORK AND MIRRORS
Framed Pictures and Artwork
Small to Medium Frames:
- Protect the Glass
- Cut cardboard to fit over glass
- Tape in X-pattern across glass (prevents shattering spread)
- Or use painter’s tape to create star pattern
- Wrap Thoroughly
- Wrap entire frame in bubble wrap
- Pay extra attention to corners
- Use multiple layers
- Secure with tape
- Create Bundles
- Stack 2-3 similarly sized frames together
- Place cardboard between each frame
- Wrap bundle together
- Stand vertically in box, never flat
Large or Valuable Artwork:
- Use proper picture boxes (telescoping)
- Custom-cut cardboard corner protectors
- Multiple bubble wrap layers
- Consider professional art moving services for expensive pieces
Mirrors
Mirrors require special care due to size and fragility.
- Surface Protection
- Tape glass in X-pattern or grid
- Place cardboard sheet over glass surface
- Secure with painter’s tape
- Corner and Edge Protection
- Apply foam corner protectors
- Add edge guards along all sides
- Wrap Completely
- Multiple layers of bubble wrap
- Cover entire mirror thoroughly
- Tape securely
- Box and Label
- Use mirror box adjusted to size
- Add “MIRROR – FRAGILE” on all sides
- Draw arrows indicating “THIS SIDE UP”
- Add “DO NOT LAY FLAT”
Pro Tip: For large mirrors, have two people handle them. Never try to move a large mirror alone.
PACKING LAMPS AND LIGHT FIXTURES
Table Lamps
- Disassemble
- Remove bulbs (pack separately)
- Remove shade
- Separate base from shade
- Pack Lampshade
- Place in separate box
- Add crumpled paper inside shade
- Wrap outside gently (shades dent easily)
- Don’t compress
- Pack Base
- Wrap cord around base
- Bubble wrap thoroughly
- Pack in appropriately sized box
- Fill gaps
Chandeliers and Ceiling Fixtures
For expensive or sentimental light fixtures:
- Photograph before removing
- Remove all detachable parts
- Wrap each crystal or glass piece individually
- Pack in divided box
- Label box “CHANDELIER – FRAGILE”
- Consider professional help for valuable chandeliers
PACKING DECORATIVE ITEMS
Ceramics and Pottery
Vases:
- Stuff interior with packing paper
- Wrap exterior with bubble wrap
- Pay attention to neck and handles
- Pack upright in box
- Surround with cushioning
Statues and Figurines:
- Wrap protruding parts (arms, heads) separately first
- Wrap entire piece in multiple bubble wrap layers
- Box individually or with heavy cushioning between items
- Fill all gaps
Collectibles and Antiques
For valuable collections:
- Individual wrapping essential
- Use acid-free tissue paper for heirlooms
- Original packaging if available
- Document with photos
- Consider appraisal and special insurance
- Professional packing services recommended
PACKING KITCHEN FRAGILE ITEMS
Appliances with Glass Parts
Blenders, Food Processors:
- Remove glass jars/bowls
- Wrap glass parts as per glassware instructions
- Wrap base separately
- Keep all parts together in one box
- Label clearly
Microwave:
- Remove glass turntable
- Pack turntable separately with plate-packing method
- Wrap microwave in bubble wrap
- Original box ideal
Cookware
Non-Stick Pans:
- Place packing paper between each pan if nesting
- Wrap handles
- Protect non-stick coating from scratches
Glass Cookware:
- Wrap as dishes
- Individual wrapping essential
- Don’t stack directly
SPECIAL BANGLADESHI HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
Showcased China and Serving Sets
Many Bangladeshi homes have decorative china showcases:
- Empty showcase completely
- Wrap each piece individually
- Pack in dish pack boxes
- Transport showcase empty
- Reassemble at new location
Religious Items
Quran Sharif, Prayer Items:
- Use clean, respectful packing
- Separate boxes for religious items
- Handle with care
- Mark boxes clearly
- Keep in accessible place
Hindu Deity Statues:
- Individual wrapping with soft cloth first
- Bubble wrap protection
- Separate box
- Handle respectfully
PACKING TIMELINE AND ORDER
What to Pack When
4 Weeks Before:
- Decorative items
- Artwork and pictures
- Out-of-season items
- Books
2 Weeks Before:
- Most kitchen items (keep essentials)
- Extra electronics
- Most clothing
1 Week Before:
- Remaining kitchen items
- Most bathroom items
- Remaining electronics
Moving Day:
- Perishables
- Last-minute items
- Essentials box
COMMON PACKING MISTAKES TO AVOID
Mistake 1: Using Too Much Tape
While securing is important, excessive tape makes unpacking frustrating and can damage items.
Mistake 2: Not Testing Box Weight
If you can’t lift it comfortably, it’s too heavy. Redistribute items.
Mistake 3: Mixing Fragile with Non-Fragile
Never pack fragile items with heavy or sharp objects.
Mistake 4: Inadequate Labeling
“Fragile” isn’t enough. Specify contents: “Kitchen – Wine Glasses – FRAGILE”
Mistake 5: Packing Too Early
Items packed weeks in advance gather dust and may be forgotten when loading.
Mistake 6: Ignoring Weather
Dhaka’s monsoon season requires extra moisture protection. Use plastic wrapping.
Mistake 7: DIY for Expensive Items
Some items are worth professional handling. Don’t risk a ৳50,000 item to save ৳500.
PROFESSIONAL PACKING VS. DIY
When to DIY
- You have time (packing takes longer than expected)
- Items are not extremely valuable
- You’re comfortable with packing techniques
- Budget is very tight
When to Hire Professionals
- Valuable or irreplaceable items
- Large fragile items (mirrors, artwork)
- Extensive glassware or china collections
- Limited time before move
- Previous bad packing experiences
- Insurance coverage desired
Cost Comparison in Dhaka:
DIY Packing:
- Materials: ৳2,000-৳5,000
- Your time: 20-40 hours
- Risk: Higher damage potential
Professional Packing:
- Full home packing: ৳5,000-৳15,000
- Time saved: Significant
- Risk: Much lower with insurance
BasaChange packing services offer flexible options from full-service to partial packing for specific fragile items.
UNPACKING FRAGILE ITEMS
Proper unpacking is as important as packing.
Unpacking Process
- Unpack in Order
- Essentials first
- Kitchen items early
- Decorative items last
- Prepare the Space
- Clean shelves before unpacking
- Have storage ready
- Clear work area
- Unwrap Carefully
- Cut tape, don’t rip boxes
- Save good boxes and materials
Continue
2:22 PM
- Unwrap slowly over soft surface
- Check each item for damage
- Report Damage Immediately If using a professional moving service, report any damage within 24 hours with photos.
- Dispose Properly
- Recycle boxes and paper
- Save bubble wrap for future use
- Donate excess packing materials
INSURANCE AND DAMAGE CLAIMS
Understanding Coverage
Basic Coverage: Most moving companies include basic coverage (usually 5% of bill value). This may not cover valuable items fully.
Additional Insurance: For valuable collections:
- Photograph all items before packing
- Get professional appraisal
- Purchase additional moving insurance
- Keep receipts and documentation
Making a Claim:
- Report damage immediately
- Provide photos
- Keep damaged items and packaging
- Submit claim within specified timeframe (usually 7 days)
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
Packing Material per Item Type
| Item Type | Box Size | Cushioning | Special Notes |
| Plates | Dish pack | Paper, bubble wrap | Pack vertically |
| Glasses | Small-medium | Paper stuffing, bubble wrap | Pack upside down |
| Electronics | Original or snug fit | Bubble wrap, foam | Remove batteries |
| Artwork | Picture box | Bubble wrap, cardboard | Tape glass in X |
| Mirrors | Mirror box | Bubble wrap, corner guards | Stand vertically |
| Lamps | Varies | Paper, bubble wrap | Separate shade/base |
FINAL THOUGHTS
Packing fragile items requires patience, proper materials, and proven techniques. While it may seem tedious, the time invested in proper packing prevents the heartbreak of damaged belongings and costly replacements.
Remember:
- Quality materials matter – don’t cut corners
- Individual wrapping is non-negotiable
- Label everything clearly and accurately
- Professional help is worth it for valuable items
- Time – start early, don’t rush
Whether you choose DIY packing or professional packing services from BasaChange, following these techniques ensures your precious belongings arrive safely at your new home.
NEED PROFESSIONAL PACKING HELP?
Don’t risk your valuables with improper packing. BasaChange offers expert packing services with: ✓ High-quality packing materials ✓ Trained professional packers ✓ Insurance coverage ✓ Time-saving convenience
Get a free packing quote today or call 01766-628133
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