(Updated November 29, 2024)
Moving is an exciting but also challenging time with so many things on your moving checklist. One of the more stressful to-do items is figuring out how to pack a TV for moving, especially when you have to consider its large size and fragile screen.
But don’t worry! Moving a TV isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Stop the Google search and keep reading to learn how to move a flat-screen TV.
How to Pack a TV for Moving Like a Pro (Using a TV Box)
To avoid the pain of a shattered TV screen and a hefty replacement cost, learn how to pack a TV for moving, the professional way.
1. Gather your packing supplies
The first step of packing a TV for moving is making sure you have everything you’ll need to protect it. Essential supplies include:
A TV moving box or the original TV box
Paper moving pads or bubble wrap for wrapping the TV
Packing paper or foam inserts for extra cushioning
Packing tape to close the box up
Plastic bags for cords and other components
Markers or pens to clearly label boxes and cords
Screwdrivers to disconnect any components
Also, if you have hardwood or laminate flooring, consider laying down a rug or blanket to protect the floor and your TV from scratches or dents during packing.
With all these materials, you’ll be ready to get packing!
2. Disassemble your TV and organize the cords
Next, you’ll need to disassemble the TV without losing any pieces or cables, or without making reassembly in your new place a disaster.
Take a picture showing a good view of where all the cords are plugged in on the back of the TV — this will help you replicate the right setup in your new home.
Unplug one cord at a time and label each with a piece of packing tape and markers.
Pack every cord in a plastic bag and set it aside. Label the bag so you remember what the cord goes to.
Unmount the TV or remove it from its base stand.
Detach all mounting, base components, and screws and pack them in a separate box from the flat screen. Place any small pieces in a plastic bag and label it.
Pro Tip: Don’t pack the bag of cords in the box with the TV. It could scrape or apply pressure to the fragile screen. Instead, tape the plastic bag of cords to the outside of the TV box, or label the bag and pack it in another box dedicated to electronics. |
3. Pack your TV in a TV moving box
If you no longer have the original TV box, purchasing a TV moving box is a great option. However, assembling these boxes can sometimes be tricky, especially when sliding the two pieces together.
Here’s how to pack a TV for moving into a TV moving box:
Wrap the screen with paper moving pads or bubble wrap to protect it.
Slip foam inserts (if included with the TV moving box) onto the corners of the wrapped TV and add balled-up packing paper to the bottom of the box for extra cushioning.
Slide the TV into one of the box’s pieces vertically. Pack the top with more packing paper.
Fully encase the TV with the remaining TV moving box piece.
Tape it shut to keep it completely sealed and snug during moving.
Pro Tip: Always keep a TV upright in the box, the moving truck, and your home to protect the screen and internal components from pressure and damage. Know which side is up and label the box with “This side up” and “Fragile” to help you keep it upright and safe. |
4. Load and transport the TV safely
Now that you’ve figured out how to pack a TV for moving, the next step is safely securing the TV moving box in the moving truck.
Load it onto the moving truck while keeping it upright the whole time.
Secure the TV in a safe location, such as between two flat and padded items like armchairs and sofas..
Ensure no heavy items will fall or shift during transit and cause damage to the TV.
How you load your TV into your moving truck can reduce its chances of getting damaged on the way to your new place. Be sure that all your items are secure and don’t slide around too much. If needed, add more padding or straps to keep items from moving or falling on top of the TV.
5. Unpack your TV with care
Once the moving truck is ready to unload, it can be tempting to move quickly. However, you’ll want to continue moving slowly and carefully to reduce the chances of damage.
Carry the TV moving box inside, keeping it upright the whole time.
Place the TV where it won’t get hit by other boxes or furniture being moved into your new home.
Gently remove the tape and slide the box apart.
Reassemble your TV based on the photos you took of the cords and connections.
Now, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy that first TV binge night in your new home.
How Can I Move My TV Without a TV Box?
Don’t have the original box or a TV moving box? No problem. We have a way of packing TVs at Colonial Van Lines using paper moving pads and mirror or artwork boxes. Watch our video for the step-by-step process:
What you'll need:
Paper moving pads, which are designed to help protect items such as televisions, mirrors, and artwork
Packing paper
Four-piece mirror or picture moving box
Packing tape
Prep the TV: Remove the cord. If there's a removable base, remove the screws and base, and pack the base (with a labeled sandwich baggie containing the screws) in a separate, labeled box.
Wrap the TV: With the TV face flat on the packing surface, wrap it up in a paper moving pad, and secure the paper with a piece of tape on the back.
Construct the mirror box: Tape together the pieces of the mirror moving box so to fit the size of your flat screen TV.
Cushion the bottom of the box: Add balled-up packing paper to the bottom of the box.
Pack the TV into a mirror pack: Carefully place the TV into the box and add more cushioning to the top. Take the remaining two pieces of the mirror/picture box, place them on top, slide them down until they fit snugly, and tape up all the seams.
Want more DIY moving tips? Watch our how-to videos from the pros. |
What Is the Best Way to Pack a TV for Moving?
Ultimately, the best practice for moving a TV safely is to pack it in the original TV box, a specialized TV box, or four-pack mirror/picture moving box after wrapping it in paper moving pads. The box itself should be filled with balled-up packing paper at the top and bottom for extra cushioning.
Keep Your Items Protected with the Pros
Not sure if you want to do it yourself? All our experienced long-distance movers are trained at Colonial Van Lines University in Pompano Beach, Florida, in the art of packing — from flat-screen TVs to virtually any item in your home.
With 50 years of interstate moving under our belts and our full-service experience, which includes loading, driving, and unloading — as well as partial or full packing services if needed — we’ve got what it takes to make your move smooth and damage-free. Get a free quote now to get started!