How to safely pack a flat panel TV for moving

Flat Panel television sets, such as plasma and LCD TVs require extra care when moving or packing. Countless times has someone tried to move their valuable flat panel TV to their new home, only to find it broken or inoperable when they arrive. In this article, we will explain the proper way to securely package such TVs.

Most people don't know that the best way to move their TV is with the original box that the TV came in. This box contains everything that you would need for a short move of your TV.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The original box your TV came in from the store
• If you do not have this box, try to purchase a box close to the size of the front of the screen. (not the size of the entire TV).
• Foam sheet from packing place
• Blue Painters Tape

1. First, if you have the original box that your TV came in, use this box to pack your TV. Typically this box has some foam blocks to support the TV in it. Use TWO people at all times when handling your TV as it can be heavy and unstable.
   
   If you do not have the box, you may continue with the following steps. First in this situation, have your TV standing upright (it should never lie down). Gather your materials to move on to the next step.

2. With the TV in the upright position in front of you, wrap the thin foam sheet around the TV twice. To secure the foam sheet, place painters tape at the required locations.

3. Take the piece of cardboard and place it on the front of the TV. That's the screen area. Secure this piece with the painters tape on the top, bottom, and sides. If you wish, you may an additional piece of cardboard on top of the other, and wrap this tape all the way around, provding better security.

4. You're ready to move your TV! When moving the TV, keep in mind to keep it as close to the upright position as possible, and place no pressure on the front of the screen. Always have two people when moving larger TVs as some models can be quite heavy and awkward.

Tips & Warnings

• Use of painters tape (the blue stuff that painters use) eliminates the possiblity of tape sticking to or damaging your TV. The odds are highly unlikely that there will be any residue left behind.
• Using a foam sheet which is available at many packing places eliminates the possibility of your screen being scratched. Some places say to use a soft blanket, bubble wrap, or carboard directly against the screen. I would advise against this as some blankets may scratch the screen, bubble wrap can leave marks on the screen, and carboard has a likely chance of scratching the screen. Always try to get as close as possible to the original packaging!
• Never let your TV sit on its side. Especially plasma TVs.
• Do not pin your TV between boxes when moving, these can shift and cause damage.
• Do not try to move the TV yourself.
• If it is cold out after you move the TV, let it warm up for a few hours before plugging it in and operating it.