If you are moving, you may need to know how to move a flat-screen TV, which may be more complicated than you think. In 2019, 10.18 million TVs with a screen size of 60″ or more were estimated to be shipped in North America. People often pack many items together in boxes in order to save space and ease the number of loads that need to be carried in. However, this method would not be best for moving a TV and could result in a broken TV. I don’t think you’d like that to happen to a top-rated TV.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Pack your TV by surrounding it with padding and, ideally, within a specially designed box.
- Place your TV upright between two flat surfaces for transport.
- Be sure to keep the TV as upright as possible while setting it up.
Supplies Needed to Pack a TV
To pack a TV, you will need a box that fits the TV. It is possible to move a TV without a box, but the box adds a layer of protection. If you kept the box the TV came in, you want to use that one, especially if you still have the padding. If you didn’t keep the box the TV came in, you may find one that is designed for TVs at the various home improvement stores. Some moving companies also offer boxes for flat-panel TVs. The boxes you get from the store or moving company are designed to fit flat screens within a range of sizes. Make sure you get a box that will fit your screen.
You may also want padding of some kind to be wrapped around your TV when it goes in the box. The padding that comes in the box, usually styrofoam or a similar padding material, may be useful because it has been made specifically for your TV size and shape. However, if you do not have the padding that came with the TV, you may be able to use clean bubble wrap or thin blankets. By adding padding, you aim to protect the screen more during the move, though that won’t stop it being fried from lightning. Many kits that you can buy for moving a TV include padding in them.
Moving Your TV
STEP 1
Remove all cords from the TV. This includes power cords, adapters, and appliance connection cables. You may want to take a picture of the cords before you unplug them or label them with tape so you know where they should be plugged in. These cords can be transported in a separate box.
STEP 2
Wrap your TV in padding. When you pack up your TV, make sure that the padding is wrapped neatly around the screen and corners. The padding should be thin enough that the TV still fits in the box. The styrofoam should just slide on if you have any from the original box or one of the TV moving kits.
STEP 3
Place your TV in the box. This will typically require you to slide it in through the side. While your TV is in the box, make sure it is upright to avoid any unnecessary pressure on the screen.
STEP 4
Transport your TV. When you place your TV in the moving van or truck or whatever vehicle you are using, make sure it is upright and between two steady, flat surfaces. These surfaces could be many items, including mattresses, dressers (on the side without handles,) or bookshelves. You are attempting to make the trip as easy as possible with little movement for your TV.
STEP 5
Unpack your TV. When you get your TV inside, keep it as upright as you can. However, keeping the TV upright may be hard since you have to plug in all of your home entertainment setups. Make sure you have a good hold on the TV before attempting to connect the cords. If you can, have someone help you by either holding the TV up or plugging the cables in.
STEP 6
Enjoy your TV. And if you find TV captions or subtitles annoying, you can learn how to turn them off for greater enjoyment.
F.A.Q.S
Why is it bad to lay a TV flat for transport?
Many TVs include lightweight glass and little support in the middle of the screen. If you lay your TV flat, you run the risk of the screen cracking from the weight of the rest of the TV.
How can I move my TV without a box?
You can move your TV without a box, but you will want to make sure it is wrapped up in padding and between two flat-surfaced items.
Can you lay a LED TV flat in the box?
No, you should not lay a TV flat, even if it is in the box that it came in. Laying it flat can cause damage to the screen.
STAT: In 2019, 10.18 million TVs with a screen size of 60″ or more were estimated to be shipped in North America. (source)
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