How to pack a TV for moving

What supplies do you need to move a TV?

Moving a TV without the proper supplies can lead to damage, accidents and unnecessary stress — make sure you have what you need for a safe and stress-free move.

The following packing supplies should come in handy for moving a TV:

• TV box: A sturdy, appropriately sized box designed for TVs will provide the best protection. If you have the original box, that's ideal, but you can also purchase specialized TV boxes.
• Bubble wrap: Use bubble wrap to wrap the TV and protect it from impacts and vibrations.
• Packing paper: Use packing paper to fill empty spaces in the box and provide additional cushioning.
• Foam corner protectors: These protect the corners of the TV and provide extra stability within the box.
• Cardboard inserts: Place cardboard inserts between the screen and the bubble wrap to prevent direct pressure on the screen.
• Cable ties or cord organizers: Keep cables organized and secured to the TV to prevent tangling and damage.
• Packing tape: Secure the box and any other packing materials with strong packing tape.
• Moving blanket or towel: Place a blanket or towel underneath the TV in the box for additional padding.
• Plastic bags: Use plastic bags to store remote controls, cables and other small accessories. You can then tape these bags to the TV box or the TV itself.
• Marker: Label the box as "Fragile" and indicate which side should be facing up.
• Carrying straps or handles: If your TV is particularly large, straps or handles can make it easier to lift and carry.

How to pack and move a TV

Before you begin packing your TV, ensure it’s turned off and disconnected from its power source. Disconnect all cables, including power and HDMI cords, audio cables and any connected devices. Store these cables safely to prevent any loss or damage to the ports and connectors. Don't forget to back up any settings or data saved on your TV.

Take a soft, dry cloth and delicately clean the screen, frame and rear surface of the TV. This will help prevent the accumulation of dust and debris, which could potentially cause scratches on the screen while in transit.

Then it’s a matter of picking the right container, carefully wrapping the TV and packing it up with any accessories.

» WANT HELP INSTEAD? Best packing services

1. Choose the right box

Begin by measuring the TV's dimensions (width, height and depth), accounting for any protruding parts like stands or mounts. Add a few extra inches (or centimeters) to each dimension to allow space for packaging materials like bubble wrap, foam or padding.

Select an appropriately sized sturdy box made from ribbed cardboard with double walls for enhanced protection against bumps and drops. Inside the box, use foam blocks, corner protectors or inflatable air cushions to create a cushioned barrier around the TV. Make sure the TV fits snugly to avoid shifting, but also avoid an overly tight fit that could damage the screen.

2. Wrap with care

Prepare a spacious workspace. Ensure the surface is clear of debris, sharp items, or anything that could harm the TV. Take a sheet of bubble wrap that's larger than the TV and gently position it over the screen, ensuring it's centered and doesn't touch the screen directly. You can fold the bubble wrap if needed to match the screen's size.

Add a few more layers of bubble wrap — it's important to make sure the screen is well-padded to absorb shocks. Use packing tape to secure the bubble wrap, avoiding direct contact with the TV's surface. Next, put foam corner protectors on each corner of the TV, ensuring they're securely attached.

Wrap the entire TV with more layers of bubble wrap, covering all sides and edges. Again, use packing tape to secure the wrap in place, avoiding contact with the TV's surface.

3. Secure accessories

Gather all the accessories you want to pack with your TV — e.g., remotes, HDMI cables and power cords. Organize these into groups and label them as needed. To keep cords neat and untangled, put each one in a small resealable bag or use cable ties. Label these bags or ties with the cable's name or purpose.

Wrap delicate items in bubble wrap or packing paper to keep them safe during the move. Once everything is sorted and protected, place all the accessories in a bigger resealable bag or a soft material bag.

Consider placing these accessories in the box with the TV to avoid confusion when unpacking. Position the accessories around the TV, or place them in the TV stand or base if they’re small.

If you have manuals, store them separately in a document folder or envelope. You can include this folder in the TV box or keep it with other important documents. This way, all the information you need stays organized and accessible.

4. Place the TV in the box

Seal the bottom of the box with packing tape and put crumpled packing paper or foam padding inside to cushion and support the TV. Lift the wrapped TV with care and place it upright inside the box. Keep it upright to spread the weight evenly.

Once the TV is in the box, use more packing paper or foam padding to fill any gaps around it, adding extra padding at the top. Be thorough, especially around corners and sides, to avoid shifting.

Gently shake the box to check if the TV moves. If it does, add more padding to secure it. The TV should fit snugly with minimal movement.

5. Seal and label the box

Start by folding the top flaps of the box, then apply a strip of tape along the center seam, adhering it to both the box and its flaps. Reinforce with extra tape along the edges, and consider a second layer perpendicular to the first for enhanced security during handling.

Use a thick, bold marker and write neatly to label the box (maybe with "TV — Fragile") on multiple sides. Mark which side is up; if you’re hiring movers, this will help them protect your TV.

» COMPARE: Moving yourself vs. hiring movers

6. Load and transport the TV

Place the TV box upright in the vehicle (a spot where it’s safe from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures is ideal). If possible, secure it against something stable to prevent it from moving. You can also use straps or bungee cords to keep it firmly in place. Be gentle and avoid dropping or hitting it against surfaces.

» MORE: How to unpack after moving

If you have multiple items to load, make sure to distribute the weight evenly to prevent sudden movements during transit. Once everything is loaded, if you’re driving, be careful, avoiding abrupt stops, sharp turns and rough roads.