Your electronics are likely some of the most delicate and expensive items in your home. When you’re preparing for an upcoming move, you’ll need to know how to pack a TV and its accessories to prevent damage.
The best way to pack a TV is by using the original manufacturer’s box…but very few people keep those lying around. Fortunately, you have access to the right packing and moving supplies to protect your TV so you can start enjoying your favorite shows as soon as you move into your new home.
Preparing to Pack a TV and Its Accessories
Your entertainment setup might include things like a streaming stick, digital antenna, soundbar, and video game console in addition to the TV itself. Before you start to actually pack a TV and the accessories, take plenty of pictures of the cords so your system is easy to set back up at your new place.
Then, carefully turn off and unplug each device. Have a few microfiber cloths handy so you can remove any dust, and label each cord so you know what cables belong to which accessory. Then, pack the cords and cables into resealable baggies to keep them organized and untangled.
Your final step before you pack a TV is to make sure it’s nice and clean. Carefully clean the screen, and clean the air vents with a can of compressed air. Then, wipe off the entire TV with a soft microfiber cloth and get ready to box it up.
Tips for Boxing Up Your TV
Being able to pack efficiently for a move requires having the right supplies—and that includes the best box to pack a TV. The best option is always the manufacturer’s original packing material, since the boxes are usually made out of thick cardboard. Plus, there are foam inserts specifically designed for the TV’s exact brand, model, and size. But let’s be real: TV boxes are big and cumbersome, so chances are you tossed it as soon as you brought the TV home.
The next best thing to the manufacturer’s packaging is to rent a TV box from your professional moving company. Movers can provide sturdy cardboard TV boxes that are specially designed to prevent damage to your TV during transport. TV boxes are usually available for rental, making them a safe and affordable option.
If you decide not to rent a TV box from your moving company, you’re accepting liability should the TV get damaged during your move. TVs are rather delicate and aren’t meant to be transported. You can roll the dice by wrapping it in a blanket, but you’ll be on the hook to buy yourself a new one if it doesn’t arrive at your new home in good working condition.
How to Pack a TV Into the Moving Truck
Your professional move crew will take care of bringing your boxed TV to and from the moving truck. But what if you’re planning a DIY move? Here are a few tips to safely pack a TV into your rental truck:
- Stand it upright. Don’t lay the TV down. The screen could crack or other heavy items could be placed on top of it.
- Strap it in. Your moving truck likely comes with ratchet straps. Use them to secure the boxed TV to the side of the truck and prevent it from moving around during the drive to your new home.
- Watch the weather. If you’re moving in the summer or winter, consider bringing your TV in your personal vehicle instead of the truck. Truck boxes aren’t climate-controlled, and electronics are sensitive to extreme heat and cold.
When you arrive at your new home, make your TV one of the first things you bring inside. Give it some time to adjust to the room temperature before plugging it in. Once the truck is unloaded, throw on your favorite show or movie, kick back, and relax in your new place.
Not Sure How to Pack a TV? We’ve Got the Expertise and Moving Supplies for You!
Learning how to pack a TV probably isn’t very high on your priority list, and it doesn’t have to be. We can provide the eco-friendly moving supplies to help you plan a smooth and damage-free move. And if you’re looking for a team of professional packers, we’ll be happy to recommend the best crew in Chicago.
Contact us today to get started!