How To Move A TV

Dec 17, 2024

Amelia Hazel

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Moving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about protecting the things that matter most.

We all know the excitement of starting fresh in a new home, but the thought of packing up years of belongings can be enough to make anyone want to procrastinate.

In fact, a study by the American Moving and Storage Association reveals that the average American moves 11.7 times in their lifetime.

That’s a lot of boxes, tape, and stress!

Did you know that the average cost of a local move in the U.S. is around $1,250, which can exceed $4,000 for long-distance moves?

Add to that the stress of sorting through your stuff,  packing everything securely, and coordinating logistics, and it’s easy to see why packing can become one of the most overwhelming aspects of moving.

But what if we tell you that there’s a way to make the packing process less stressful, faster, and more efficient?

By using the best packing hacks for moving, you can save yourself time, money, and countless headaches.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at clever packing strategies for trips, quick packing tips, and space-saving packing hacks that will help you organize your move like a pro. 

Let’s get you ready for your next big move! Moving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about protecting the things that matter most. And when it comes to protecting your belongings, few items are as fragile and valuable as your TV. Imagine this: you’ve just spent hundreds, even thousands, of dollars on a brand-new flat-screen TV, and now it’s time to move it. The thought of damaging that sleek, expensive piece of technology during a move can be downright terrifying. According to a report by the Consumer Technology Association, over 80% of households in the U.S. own a flat-screen TV. With larger screen sizes and more advanced technology, these TVs have become essential for entertainment, work, and more in our homes. The average screen size has increased to over 50 inches in many households, which makes them larger and more delicate than ever before. However, a study found that about 1 in 5 household moves result in damage to electronic equipment, and TVs are at the top of that list.   The cost of replacing or repairing a broken TV can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, so it's critical to take extra care during the move. Whether you are moving across town or simply relocating the TV to another room, the challenge is the same: how do you move a TV safely and without damage? The process might seem stressful, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll discuss the steps you need to take to ensure your TV stays in perfect condition throughout the move.  Gather the Right Materials Before you even think about lifting your TV, you’ll want to gather all the necessary materials to ensure a smooth and safe move. Here’s what you need: TV Moving Box The first and most essential item for moving a TV is a TV moving box. If you still have the original box that your TV came in, you're in luck. These boxes are specifically designed to accommodate the shape and size of your TV, which provides optimal protection. If you no longer have the original box, you can purchase a specialized TV moving box from moving supply stores or online retailers. Make sure you select a box that fits your TV size; there should be little to no extra space in it.  Bubble Wrap One of the best ways to protect your TV’s delicate screen is with bubble wrap. The air pockets in bubble wrap provide cushioning that absorbs shocks and vibrations. Wrap the TV tightly with multiple layers of bubble wrap, ensuring that the screen is fully covered.  Packing Tape Once the bubble wrap is securely in place, use packing tape to hold it all together. Be careful not to tape directly onto the TV's surface to avoid any sticky residue.  Moving Blankets or Towels If you don’t have moving blankets, large towels can also provide additional protection for your TV. They are especially useful for adding extra cushioning around the TV’s edges, which are vulnerable to impact. Simply wrap the blankets or towels around the wrapped TV before placing them in the box.  Plastic Bags Use plastic bags to organize smaller items like remote controls, HDMI cables, and power cords. Label each bag to ensure you don’t lose anything during the move.   Carrying Straps If your TV is especially large or heavy, carrying straps can help distribute the weight evenly, which makes it easier and safer to move.   How to Prepare the TV for Packing Before you can pack your TV, you'll need to prepare it. Here’s what to do:   Unplug All Cables and Accessories Start by disconnecting all the cables connected to your TV, including HDMI cords, power cables, and any external devices like soundbars or gaming consoles. It’s important to organize your cables to make the reinstallation process easier later on. You can use zip ties or twist ties to bundle cables neatly. Place all cables and accessories in a labeled plastic bag so they don't get lost.  Remove the Stand or Wall Mount If your TV is sitting on a stand, you'll need to remove it carefully. Use the appropriate tools to unscrew the stand from the base of the TV. If your TV is wall-mounted, you’ll have to detach it from the wall mount. Be sure to store any screws or mounting hardware in a small bag so you can easily reassemble it later. Clean the TV Take a microfiber cloth and clean the TV screen and exterior to remove dust and fingerprints. Cleaning before packing will ensure your TV remains in pristine condition throughout the move.  How to Protect the TV During the Move Once your TV is prepared for packing, it’s time to protect it for the journey. The screen is the most vulnerable part of the TV, so protecting it is key.   Wrap the TV with Bubble Wrap Take your bubble wrap and begin wrapping the TV. Be sure to cover the entire screen and edges. Use multiple layers of bubble wrap to protect the screen from any impact during transport. Don’t forget to secure the wrap with packing tape but be careful not to tape directly onto the TV's screen.  Use Moving Blankets or Towels Next, wrap the TV in a moving blanket or large towels. This adds a further layer of protection against bumps and jolts. You want to make sure the TV is snug and secure, so the blanket or towels should cover every exposed part of the TV. Once wrapped, use packing tape to keep everything in place.   How to Pack the TV in the Box Now that the TV is properly wrapped and protected, it’s time to pack it into the box.  Place the TV in the Box Carefully place the wrapped TV into the TV moving box. If the box is too big, use additional packing materials like foam inserts or crumpled newspaper to fill any gaps. This will prevent the TV from shifting around inside the box. The goal is to ensure the TV stays perfectly still and is cushioned on all sides.  Seal the Box Once the TV is inside the box, close the flaps and seal the box with packing tape. Be generous with the tape to ensure the box stays securely closed during transport. Don’t forget to label the box as "Fragile" and "This Side Up," so movers or anyone handling the box knows to be extra careful with it.  Transport the TV Transporting your TV safely is critical to its well-being. Whether you're moving across town or cross-country, take the following precautions:  Load the TV When loading the TV into your vehicle, make sure it is upright. The TV should never be laid flat, as the screen can become cracked or scratched under pressure. Ideally, place the TV between two sturdy items, such as a couch or mattress, to minimize movement during transit.  Secure the TV Use bungee cords or securing straps to keep the TV in place during the move. Make sure the straps are tight enough to hold the TV securely but not so tight that they apply pressure to the screen.  Transport the TV in a Car If you're transporting the TV in a car, placing it upright in the backseat or cargo area is best. Always keep the TV in a position where it is unlikely to fall or be jostled during the drive. If possible, use a seatbelt or additional straps to secure the TV.  Moving a TV Cross-Country? If you’re moving a TV across a long distance, such as across the country, it’s highly recommended to use professional TV moving services near me. They have the experience and equipment to ensure your TV arrives safely at your new home. Additionally, they will be familiar with packing and securing your TV for long-distance transportation, reducing the risk of damage.  How to Unpack and Set Up the TV Once you’ve arrived at your new location, it’s time to unpack and set up your TV. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:  Carefully Unbox the TV Upon arrival, carefully unbox the TV. Inspect it thoroughly for any signs of damage that may have occurred during the move. If any issues arise, take photos and contact your moving company if applicable.  Reassemble the Stand or Mount If you removed the stand or wall mount before the move, now is the time to reattach it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, ensuring everything is securely fastened.  Reconnect the Cables Once the TV is set up, reconnect all the cables using the labels you created before the move. This will save you time and frustration when connecting your TV to external devices like DVD players, soundbars, and gaming consoles.  Allow the TV to Acclimate After being moved, let the TV acclimate to the room temperature before turning it on. This prevents condensation from forming inside the screen. Wait at least an hour before plugging it in to ensure it is fully adjusted to its new environment.  Additional Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid Here are some quick tips to make your move even smoother:  Don’t Forget the Remote: Always remember to pack the remote control and any extra accessories (such as gaming consoles or streaming devices) that go with your TV.  Use the Right Packing Materials: As mentioned earlier, packing materials such as bubble wrap, moving blankets, and packing tape are critical to ensuring your TV is protected when moving.  Avoid Laying the TV Flat: Never place a flat-screen TV on its face or back during the move. This can cause the screen to crack under pressure.  Hire Professionals: If you’re concerned about handling the TV yourself, it may be worth hiring professional movers who specialize in transporting fragile electronics. This can give you peace of mind that your TV will be handled with the utmost care. 

Start Early and Declutter

Begin the packing process well in advance—ideally, six weeks before your move date.

This timeline allows you to sort through your belongings, decide what to keep, donate, or discard, and gather necessary packing materials.

Decluttering not only reduces the volume of items to pack but also lightens your load, making the move more efficient.

Gather Quality Packing Materials

Investing in sturdy boxes,  packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers is essential. High-quality materials protect your items and prevent damage during transit.

Use specialty boxes for fragile items like dishes and electronics to provide extra protection. 

Use Space-Saving Packing Hacks

Maximizing space in your boxes can lead to a more organized and efficient move.

Here are some effective space-saving packing methods:

1. Vacuum-Sealed Bags

Compress bulky items like blankets and winter coats by using vacuum-sealed bags. This method reduces the volume of your belongings, allowing for more efficient packing. 

2. Clothes in Trash Bags

For hanging clothes, group them together, cover them with a trash bag, and secure the open end with a rubber band. This technique keeps your clothes clean and organized during the move.

3. Utilize Shoe Space

Fill the inside of your shoes with socks, underwear, or small items. This not only saves space but also helps maintain the shape of your shoes.

4. KonMari Folding Technique

Fold clothes into compact rectangles that can stand upright in your suitcase or box. This method saves space and makes it easier to see and access each item without disturbing the rest.

5. Rolling Clothes

Instead of folding, roll your clothes tightly. This technique minimizes wrinkles and maximizes space, allowing you to fit more items into your boxes or luggage.

Protect Fragile Items

Wrap delicate items like glassware and ceramics in bubble wrap or packing paper. For added protection, consider using towels, sheets, or clothing to cushion these items.

This not only safeguards your belongings but also reduces the need for additional packing materials. 

Label Boxes Clearly

Label each box with its contents and the room to which it belongs. Using a color-coding system can further streamline the unpacking process.

Clearly marking boxes containing fragile items with "Fragile" or "Handle with Care" ensures they receive the necessary attention during the move. 

Pack Heavy Items in Small Boxes

While it might be tempting to pack heavy items in large boxes, it's more practical to use smaller boxes. This makes them easier to carry and reduces the risk of the boxes breaking. For instance, books and canned goods can be packed in small boxes to prevent overloading.

Utilize Suitcases and Bags

Suitcases are designed to carry heavy items and are equipped with wheels for easy transport. Use them to pack clothing, shoes, and other essentials.

This approach not only saves space but also makes transporting these items more convenient. 

Disassemble Furniture

If possible, disassemble large furniture pieces to save space and prevent damage. Keep all screws and small parts in labeled bags taped to the furniture.

Taking photos of the disassembled pieces can also assist in reassembly at your new home. 

Pack an Essentials Box

Prepare a box containing items you'll need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and important documents.

Having this box easily accessible can make the first night in your new home more comfortable. 

Protect Your Electronics

Before packing electronics, take photos of the wiring and connections. This visual reference will make setting up your devices in your new home easier.

Additionally, use the original packaging if available, or wrap the items securely in bubble wrap and place them in sturdy boxes. 

Use Plastic Wrap for Drawers

Instead of emptying dresser drawers, wrap them with plastic stretch wrap to keep the contents secure.

This method saves time and reduces the number of boxes needed. Ensure the wrap is tight and secure to prevent items from shifting during the move.

Keep Important Documents with You

Avoid packing essential documents like passports, birth certificates, and financial records with your other belongings.

Keep them in a safe place, such as a personal bag or folder, to ensure they are easily accessible and secure during the move. 

Fill Empty Spaces

One great packing tip is to make use of every available space. You can stuff shoes, cups, and bowls with smaller items like socks, scarves, or belts.

This method ensures you're not wasting any precious space, and it's a great way to organize your things.

When you fill empty spaces in boxes, you're able to optimize packing and avoid shifting during the move. Packing tips like these ensure a more organized, efficient, and stress-free move.

Use Moving Blankets

If you have delicate furniture or larger items, consider using moving blankets to protect them. These soft, padded blankets cushion your items and help prevent scratches and dents during transport.

Simply wrap your furniture in moving blankets and secure them with tape or shrink wrap.

This is an especially useful technique for packing hacks for business trips when you have office furniture or equipment that requires extra protection. 

Packing Strategies for Trips with Kids

Moving with children can be an added challenge, but there are strategies to make it easier.

First, involve them in the packing process by letting them pack their own small boxes or bags. Encourage them to pack their favorite toys and snacks so they feel comfortable and engaged.

Packing hacks for families can make the transition to a new home smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Maximize Your Wardrobe Boxes

Wardrobe boxes are a game-changer when it comes to packing clothes. These tall boxes with hanging bars allow you to simply transfer your clothing from your closet to the box without folding. 

It's an especially useful technique for space-saving packing methods, as it helps protect your clothing from wrinkles while maximizing space in your moving truck.

Don’t Overpack Boxes

A common mistake people make while packing is overfilling boxes.  Packing too much into one box can lead to broken boxes, damaged items, and an inefficient packing process.

Instead, balance out the weight by spreading out your heaviest items across several boxes.

This way, you'll also avoid overloading your back or risking injury while carrying the boxes. 

Organize Boxes by Room

When packing, keep items that belong to the same room in the same box.

Label each box with the room it's going to, so you don't waste time searching for things when you arrive at your new home.

You can even take it a step further by listing the contents on the side of the box, so you're not opening multiple boxes looking for one specific item.

Make Use of Digital Inventory

A useful tip is to create a digital inventory of your belongings. Taking pictures of valuable items and recording their descriptions can help you track everything during your move.

If anything goes missing or gets damaged during transit, this inventory can be helpful for insurance purposes.

It’s also a great way to get rid of unnecessary items by doing a digital declutter before packing.

Packing Hacks for Vacations vs. Moving

While packing for a vacation might seem like a less stressful task than moving, both require efficient packing techniques to avoid overpacking or forgetting essentials.

When packing for a vacation, consider rolling your clothes, using travel cubes, and making a packing list. The main goals for moving are efficiency and organization.

Whether you’re moving for a job or moving homes, the right packing strategies can save you time, effort, and money.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You can transport your TV in a car as long as it is kept upright and secure. Avoid laying it flat, as this can damage the screen. Make sure it is cushioned with blankets or bubble wrap to protect it from bumps and shocks.

If you don’t have the original box, you can still move your TV safely by wrapping it in bubble wrap and securing it with moving blankets. Make sure to wrap the TV tightly to ensure it doesn't shift around during the move. As an alternative to a box, you can use a TV moving bag or a custom foam-insert container.

Yes, if your TV has a protective plastic film or screen protector, it's best to remove it before moving. The plastic can trap moisture, leading to potential damage. Instead, rely on bubble wrap, moving blankets, or specialized foam to protect the screen.

A properly packed TV should be snug inside the box or wrapping, with no space for movement. It should be fully cushioned with bubble wrap or moving blankets on all sides. If you’re using a box, the TV should fit comfortably without being forced in.

Yes, it is highly recommended that you remove the stand before moving your TV. This will reduce the risk of it being damaged during the move and make the TV easier to pack and carry.

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