Pack a TV for Moving: The Ultimate Aussie Guide (With or Without the Box!)
Moving house is a whirlwind of boxes, bubble wrap, and a seemingly endless to-do list. Amidst the chaos, one item causes more stress than almost any other: the television. It’s big, fragile, expensive, and the centrepiece of many living rooms. The thought of a cracked screen is enough to send a shiver down anyone’s spine.
But don’t stress! Packing your TV securely is easier than you think. Whether you’re a packing pro with the original box or you threw it out years ago (like most of us!), this comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to pack your TV for moving, ensuring it arrives at your new home in perfect condition. And if you’d rather not take any risks, hiring a removalist company can give you peace of mind that your TV will be transported safely.
First Things First: Gather Your Packing Supplies
Preparation is the key to a stress-free TV move. Before you even touch the telly, get all your materials organised. You’ll thank yourself later.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A TV Moving Box: The best option is the original box. If you don’t have it, purchase a dedicated, heavy-duty TV moving box kit from a hardware or storage shop like Bunnings or Kennards. These are adjustable and come with foam protectors.
- Soft Blankets or Packing Paper: A soft moving blanket or sheets of plain packing paper are perfect for the first layer of protection on the screen.
- Bubble Wrap: You’ll need plenty of it. Opt for the version with larger bubbles for better cushioning.
- Packing Tape: A strong, high-quality packing tape is essential to seal everything securely.
- Marker Pen: For clear labelling.
- Screwdriver: To remove the TV stand or wall mount.
- Resealable Bags or Zip Ties: To keep screws, cables, and the remote organised.
The Gold Standard: Packing Your TV With Its Original Box
If you had the foresight to keep the original packaging, give yourself a pat on the back. This is the safest and easiest way to move your TV.
- Disconnect and Clean: Unplug all cables from the TV and other devices. Give the screen and body a gentle wipe with a microfibre cloth to remove dust.
- Remove the Stand: Carefully lay the TV screen down on a soft, padded surface (like a bed or a blanket on the floor) and unscrew the base stand. Place the screws in a labelled resealable bag.
- Insert Foam Supports: Place the original polystyrene (styrofoam) inserts onto the corners and sides of the TV. They are custom-moulded for a perfect, snug fit.
- Slide it In: With a helper, carefully slide the TV into the box. It should fit perfectly with no room to wobble.
- Pack Accessories: Place the stand, power cord, remote, and the bag of screws in the box, ideally in the designated compartments. If there are none, wrap them separately to avoid scratching the TV.
- Seal and Label: Tape the box shut securely along all seams. Write “FRAGILE – TELEVISION” and draw arrows indicating “THIS WAY UP” on all sides with your marker pen.
No Original Box? No Worries! Here’s How to Pack Your TV Safely
This is the most common scenario, but it’s completely manageable with the right technique. Just grab your TV moving kit and follow these steps.
Step 1: Prep Your TV and Accessories
First, disconnect all cables from the back of the TV. Pro Tip: Take a quick photo of the cable configuration before you unplug everything. This will make setting it up at your new place a breeze. Coil the cables neatly and secure them with zip ties. Place the cables, remote, and the bag of screws from the stand into a clearly labelled bag and set it aside to be packed in the TV box later.
Step 2: Protect the Screen (The Most Important Step!)
The screen is the most vulnerable part of your TV. Do not apply bubble wrap directly to the screen. The plastic can create pressure points and, in some conditions, leave marks.
Instead, cover the entire screen with a soft moving blanket, a bedsheet, or a few layers of flat packing paper. Secure this soft layer with a small amount of tape on the back of the TV, ensuring no tape touches the screen itself.
Step 3: Wrap the Entire TV in Bubble Wrap
Now it’s time for the bubble wrap. With the screen protected by the soft layer, generously wrap the entire television, paying extra attention to the corners. Use at least two to three layers. Secure the bubble wrap firmly with packing tape, creating a cushioned cocoon.
Step 4: Box It Up Like a Pro
Most TV moving boxes come in two telescoping pieces. Slide one piece over each end of the TV until they overlap in the middle. Before sealing, gently shake the box. If you feel any movement, fill the empty spaces with more soft blankets, towels, or crumpled packing paper to ensure a snug fit. Add your bag of cables and accessories.
Step 5: Seal and Label Clearly
Tape the two halves of the box together securely. Go over all the seams with packing tape. Just like with the original box, grab your marker and write “FRAGILE – TELEVISION” and “THIS WAY UP” with arrows on every side. This labelling is crucial for you and your movers.
The Final Hurdle: Transporting Your Packed TV
How you carry and position the TV in the moving truck or car is just as important as how you pack it.
Always Transport Your TV Upright.
This is the number one rule. Never, ever lay a flat-screen TV down flat. When laid down, the TV is not designed to support its own weight, and even small bumps on the road can put immense pressure on the screen, causing it to crack.
Position the TV in the truck so it’s standing upright, preferably wedged between two soft, sturdy items like mattresses or couches to prevent it from tipping over. Ensure nothing can fall on it during the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just wrap my TV in a blanket and put it in my car?
While it’s better than nothing, it’s very risky. A blanket offers minimal protection against bumps, pressure, or sharp objects. A proper TV box is a small investment to protect a valuable electronic item.
How do I pack a curved TV for moving?
Packing a curved TV follows the same principles, but requires extra care. The curve creates more empty space in a standard box. You will need to use more padding (soft blankets, foam) to fill these gaps securely so the TV cannot shift at all. A dedicated curved TV box is the best option if you can find one.
Is it okay to lay a TV down when moving?
No, absolutely not. We’ll say it again: always keep the TV in an upright, vertical position during transport. Lying it flat puts the screen at extreme risk of cracking.
How much does a TV moving box cost in Australia?
You can expect to pay between $30 and $50 for a good quality, heavy-duty TV moving box kit from stores like Bunnings, Officeworks, or dedicated storage and packing suppliers.
Should I hire professional movers to pack my TV?
If you’re feeling unsure or have a particularly large and expensive TV, hiring professional removalists is a great option. They have the right materials and experience to do it quickly and safely, and it’s often covered by their insurance for peace of mind.
