How to Pack a TV for Moving?

Table of Contents

• 1. What Equipment is Needed to Pack a TV?
• 2. How to Pack a TV for a Move?
• 3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Need tips on how to pack a TV for moving? Well, we want to assume the TV in question is a flat-screen TV, right? Not that it matters much anyway. Regardless of the type in question, packing a TV for moving is always a meticulous process due to the delicate nature of television sets.

However, the tips on how to pack a TV for moving that we’ve shared in this post majorly focus on flat screens given these are more common in most homes today.

With the exception of loading and unloading belongings, packing can be said to be the most involving aspect of the relocation. From sourcing packing supplies to choosing what to take with you and what to purge, the packing process from start to finish can be laborious.

That’s particularly when you consider individual items have their own packing formula, whether that be clothing, shoes, kitchenware, glassware, large and small appliances, art, electronics, you name it. It’s little wonder then that some people simply opt to delegate this responsibility to a professional moving company, whether it’s local or long-distance movers.

Electronics such as TVs require special care when packing for obvious reasons. This is why if you have a move in the offing, it’s important to know how to pack a TV for moving if you plan to take up this responsibility by yourself.

And that’s why we’re here.

 

What Equipment is Needed to Pack a TV?

When establishing how to pack a TV for moving, the first thing you want to do is to know what equipment and materials you need to get the job done.

If you have the original box your telly came in, that literally solves 90% of the problem, especially if the original packing materials (foam and cushioning) are still intact. TV boxes are designed for the very purpose of transporting a TV safely, so what you will need is only tape to seal the box before moving a flat-screen TV.

In the absence of boxes, you can use old blankets as an alternative. This is not the best way to transport a TV, though, so we do not recommend it as the first-choice method, especially when moving a giant screen. Unless you do not have an option.

Below is a list of the materials you need to gather when transporting a flat-screen TV:

• Moving box – you can get special TV moving boxes that come complete with a protective foam kit, but the downside is that they can be quite pricey. If you can swing it, this is the best solution if you don’t have the original packaging. Otherwise, you can make do with regular cardboard boxes. Improvise by either using a flattened moving box or construct a makeshift box using pieces of cardboard;
• Microfiber cloth – for wiping the dust from the unit and its components;
• Bubble wrap – for providing cushioning when moving a TV;
• Foam wrap or Styrofoam – for padding the TV and/or protecting the corners when moving a flat-screen TV;
• Velcro tape or twist ties – these will come in handy when packing a TV as you’ll use them to tie the cables and cords together;
• Blankets – an alternative for packing a TV when not using moving boxes. If you choose this option, also pick up a stretchy rope and zip ties for holding the blankets in place;
• Masking tape – for labeling the cords;
• Stretch wrap – for securing the wrapping material in place when moving a television;
• Scissors – always valuable when packing;
• Plastic storage bags – enough to hold the cords and accessories;
• Smartphone camera;
• Marker;
• Optional – canned air to remove dust from the vents and screen cleaner for – well – cleaning the screen.

 

How to Pack a TV for a Move?

Now that you know what materials you need when packing TV for moving, let’s walk you through the actual steps involved.

Here is a step-by-step process of how to pack a TV for moving:

1. Switch off and disconnect your television – start by turning off your TV and disconnecting it from the power outlets. Remove the power cable and set it aside;
2. Take a photo of the wire connections – if you’re not sure, you can simply take a pic of the wires connected to the TV for reference when reconnecting your set on the other end;
3. Unplug and organize all external cords and accessories – we recommend unplugging all cords and cables before packing. Use Velcro or a twist tie to tie them together, then label each cord using your marker pen and masking tape. While you are at it, take out the batteries from the remotes before you pack TV for moving, then proceed to organize the cables and accessories neatly in a box;
4. Clean the TV – if your TV is mounted on the wall, first dismount it after unplugging the cables. Depending on how you’re packing a TV for moving, you may or may not disconnect the wall mount from your tele. Once you’ve disconnected the cables, proceed to wipe down the TV. Use the microfiber cloth to clean the screen and don’t forget to dust the back of the TV as well. If you bought the gas duster (canned air) or have one on hand, use it to blow off dust from the vents;
5. Wrap your TV – anyone who wants to know how to pack a TV for moving needs to get this part right as it largely determines what shape your TV will arrive in when all is said and done. Padding will be your friend here. We want to assume you’re using boxes for moving a TV as opposed to moving blankets. Go ahead and wrap the TV in 2-3 layers of bubble wrap. Once you’re done, use a piece of foam to pad each of the four corners, before finishing off by wrapping the entire package with a stretch wrap which helps keep the padding in place; first, top to bottom, and then side to side;
6. Place your TV in the moving box – in this next step for packing TV for moving, prepare your box first by lining up the bottom with bubble wrap. Then, place your TV inside the box carefully. Have someone give you a helping hand if it’s a large set. Add more cushioning on the sides of the box if there are any gaps in between. When transporting a flat-screen TV, it should be snug and not shifting about inside the box;
7. Position the TV next to sturdy items when loading in the car or truck – how do you plan to transport your TV – in your car or mover’s truck? The best way to transport a TV is to place the box upright next to sturdy items. This helps to minimize movement on transit but said items should not be anything sharp or protruding. Avoid placing the box with the TV next to box corners too, unless those boxes are stuffed with “soft” items such as clothing;
8. Make sure the TV is upright – it would be remiss to discuss how to pack a TV for moving and not mention this important point. TVs must always travel upright. Always. The problem with leaving your TV lying flat for an extended period is that it can lead to a distortion or cracking of the edges, so avoid placing your TV down when packing it in the vehicle. You can always label the box “This end up” in bold;
9. Unpack the TV with care – when you get to your destination, unbox the TV meticulously and give it time to come to room temperature before plugging it in. Then finish by connecting everything together, using the help of the pics you took if necessary.

And… voila! That’s how to pack a TV for moving step-by-step. Don’t forget to label the contents of the box by inscribing FRAGILE on the box.

 

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As you can see, the procedure of packing a TV for moving is pretty straightforward. The most important part is to get the right materials and given the delicate nature of the item in question, to exercise caution from start to finish.

Do that and your TV should get to the other side in one piece even when transporting a flat-screen TV without its original box.

In closing, although this should have probably come first, consider the age of your TV set before your move. If you have been using it for more than seven years, think about donating or selling it; unless, of course, there is a sentimental attachment to the set you’re not ready to serve just yet. Or you would rather not contend with other expenses on top of your moving bill.

We say this because TV sets are always improving every couple of years in terms of features and energy efficiency, so not only will you be investing in a more advanced TV, but also it means one less [fragile] item to worry about when packing.

It’s your decision.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to move a flat-screen TV?

Flat screen TVs are not as bulky as the devices of yester-years, which makes flat screen TV moving easier. However, these modern screens are super delicate. While the screen may not crack into the proverbial thousand pieces should a mishap happen (since it’s not made of glass), an accidental knock on the screen could render it virtually useless.

As such, the best piece of advice to remember when transporting flat screen TV is to be lavish with the padding. Exercise caution when packing as we have described in the steps above, and your TV should arrive in its new home in pristine condition.

How to move a large TV?

Giant TVs are fun and all, until you find yourself having to move house. Then it becomes a headache. Luckily, relocating is not a monthly affair. When you find yourself having to move a large TV, we recommend enlisting the help of a professional moving company.

If you prefer taking it up DIY, it’s a good idea to have an extra pair of hands to assist you. While large flat-screen TVs are relatively light, they can be awkward to handle by oneself due to the size. Always wrap your large-screen TV with sufficient cushion and when lifting it, support the TV from underneath and make sure not to put a lot of pressure on the screen itself.

Consider renting a dolly (or investing in one! – they are relatively cheap) to make maneuvering the TV easy and safe). But two people should easily get the job done without sweat.

How to move a flat screen TV without a box?

While not the most ideal situation, blankets can be used as an alternative when you want to move a TV.

You do need to prep the TV for moving, though. As much as blankets are a form of cushion unto themselves, reduce the risk of damaging your TV by wrapping it with bubble wrap first. Use foam protectors on the corners for extra protection, and then secure the cushioning in place using zip ties or stretchy rope.

Finish by wrapping the TV in a moving blanket, wrapping it as you would a gift.

How to pack an LED TV for moving?

The most important thing when packing an LED TV is screen protection, double so for large screens: the more the surface area, the bigger the risk when moving.

As regards the actual procedure, follow the steps for packing the TV for the move that we have described in the post – disconnect the cords, wipe down the TV, and be generous with padding when packing it. Take a photo of the cable connection if necessary and have someone on hand to assist.

Got the original box your TV came in? Perfect, you don’t need any extra packing supplies.