How To Move a Flat Screen TV From One Home To Another
Flat screens can be awkward to move and easy to break. Due to their fragile nature, they must be properly packaged. This guide will show you how to pack a TV for moving in five easy steps.
Move a TV
Newer TVs may seem easy to move compared to older versions. However, flat screens are just as easily dropped, scratched or damaged in the moving process.
Do you know how to move a television in the safest way possible? It is not difficult, but it does require a few additional steps. Whatever you do, we advise you not to put the electronics in the back seat of your car and finish the day!
Whether you’re moving across the country or just upgrading to a newer model and storing your old TV for later use, it’s important to properly pack a flat screen and be mindful of the delicate screen. Here are easy steps on how to pack a TV for moving in.
1. Unplug all cables and accessories.
The first step is to unplug and organize the external cables. At the top of the power cord, you could have a half dozen other cables that you will need to keep an eye on.
Follow these steps to organize the components of your TV:
1. Dust the back of the TV for a clean area to work with.
Unplug each device one at a time and label the cable with tape and a marker.
Velcro each lanyard to its corresponding electronic or store it in a zip-lock bag.
2. Wrap the screen in a blanket or other barrier.
wrap a TV in a mobile blanket
In some way, you have to protect the screen from scratches that could be caused by moving or packing material. Depending on what you have available, there are a few different ways to do it.
Wrap a blanket around the screen and secure the blanket with a small string or bungee cord.
Use the protective plastic sleeve that came with the TV or buy plastic wrap made for moving.
Glue a piece of packing paper with painter’s tape.
3. Find the original packaging or a suitable moving box.
Original TV packaging is as good a storage option as you’ll find. Packaging is created with shipping in mind, which means that special care is taken to protect every part of the TV. Styrofoam sections create an airtight barrier between the case and the display.
While we recommend keeping the original packaging, we also understand the desire to recycle old boxes to reduce clutter. If you decide to dispose of the packaging, try to keep the protective case or other form of screen protector that came with your TV. These covers are the ideal barrier between your display and the packaging material.
If you don’t have the original packaging, explore the following options
Use any size motion box that will provide at least two to three inches of extra space on all sides once the TV is inside.
Moving blankets or duvets around your home will work well for packing a flat screen TV. They manage to maintain the distance between the screen and a larger mobile case and provide padding without damaging the screen. Choose blankets that do not have zippers, buttons, or seams that could scratch the screen.
4. Secure the television inside the moving truck.
The black rectangle shows a television set between larger items in an upright position.
Once you have the TV padded and in a box, slide it into the moving truck or car into an upright position. Remember, televisions should always be stored upright and, if possible, elevated.
Ideally, store the screen flat among other items, so there is less chance of it moving. By lifting the TV off the ground, you reduce the risk of heavier items falling on it.
Consider these ideas when packing your moving truck
Keep the TV between two heavy, sturdy furniture, such as between a sofa and a mattress.
If you can’t find a place to slide the TV between two items, be sure to secure it against a wall.
Use a bungee cord to secure the TV in place. We recommend running one cable along the base of the unit and another along the top section of the plastic frame.
Avoid any cords or ropes coming into contact with the screen, especially when those materials are tensioned to secure the unit.
Make sure to store the TV with the screen facing away from the wall.
5. Unpack the TV carefully.
Once the TV reaches its new destination, there are a few things to keep in mind. If movers position the TV, make sure they place it in an upright position. Carefully unpack it as soon as possible to get it out of the way.
These tips will help you safely unpack your flat panel
Use two or more people to take the screen out of the moving box. Do not try to do this yourself if the TV is too heavy. Also, do not place the box on the floor and try to slide the TV out.
Allow the TV to reach room temperature before connecting any device and turning it on.
Make sure the TV stand is large and sturdy enough to accommodate the flat screen. If you are using a wall mount, make sure it is drilled into the studs or the proper anchors are used.
Televisions provide us with endless entertainment and have become a staple in most living rooms. Make sure you keep yours in good condition by taking the time to pack it up and move it around without causing damage. The screen is the easiest part to scratch, so keep that in mind. Good luck on move-in day!
