Getting Your TV Ready for the Move: The Essentials

Rochdi Rais Rochdi Rais · Updated May 31, 2023

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Your TV is one of the most valuable items you’ll need to move when transitioning to a new home. It’s not only an expensive asset but also highly delicate and susceptible to damage. Therefore, knowing how to ship a TV when moving is essential.

Before anything else, you should unplug your TV several hours before moving. This step allows your TV to cool down, preventing any potential internal damage. It’s also good to take a picture of the connections for reference when you set up your TV in your new place.

The original packaging of your TV is the best protection you can offer. If you’ve kept the box and foam padding, it’s time to put them to good use. However, getting a specialized TV moving box is the next best option if you no longer have the original packaging.

Don’t forget to remove any attachments, such as brackets, stands, or external speakers. These could shift during transit and cause damage. Keep them in a separate, clearly labeled box.

Proper Packing: Your Best Bet Against Damage

When considering how to avoid breaking a TV when moving, proper packing is key. Start by wrapping your TV with a soft blanket or moving pad to protect the screen from scratches and impacts. Secure the wrapping with packing tape, but avoid placing tape directly on the TV surface.

Next, place the wrapped TV in a box designed for moving televisions. These boxes are adjustable and have protective foam to hold your TV securely. Once your TV is in the box, fill any remaining space with bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent the TV from moving during transit. Finally, seal the box securely with packing tape.

Hire Professionals: The Safest Way to Move a TV

No matter how well you pack your TV, there’s no substitute for experience and skill. Therefore, a significant part of understanding how to avoid breaking a TV when moving involves hiring professionals. This is where CitizenShipper comes in.

CitizenShipper connects you with reliable movers who specialize in handling and transporting delicate items like TVs. By selecting a trustworthy mover from CitizenShipper’s platform, you can rest assured that your TV is in capable hands.

Their professionals know the ins and outs of how to avoid breaking a TV when moving. They have the equipment, training, and experience to safely and efficiently move your TV. Plus, they offer insurance options for additional peace of mind.

Remember, even if you know how to avoid breaking a TV when moving, the risk is never entirely eliminated. However, with the right preparation, proper packing, and help from a professional mover, you can significantly minimize this risk.

A Word on Insurance

While understanding how to avoid breaking a TV when moving is crucial, it’s also important to consider what happens if the worst does occur. This is where insurance comes in. Many professional movers, including those listed on CitizenShipper, offer various levels of insurance coverage. Discussing this with your chosen mover is a good idea to ensure your TV is covered in case of any mishap.

Why Professional Packing is Worth It

Understanding the importance of professional packing is crucial in knowing how to avoid breaking a TV when moving. Professionals have extensive training and experience in handling delicate items like televisions. They have the right materials and know the correct methods to secure your TV, reducing the risk of damage during transit.

Professional packers know how to properly wrap the TV to avoid screen scratches and use specialty boxes that offer greater protection than standard boxes. They can safely handle the TV to prevent harmful impacts when lifting and carrying such a hefty item. Opting for professional packing may seem like an extra cost, but the protection it provides your valuable TV is well worth it.

Insuring Your TV for the Move

Despite taking all precautions, there’s always a risk involved in moving delicate items like televisions. This is why it’s essential to consider insurance. Most professional moving companies offer different levels of liability coverage. The basic coverage is usually provided at no additional cost, but it only covers a fraction of the TV’s value.

For better protection, consider purchasing Full Value Protection. It may cost extra, but it covers the repair, replacement, or cash value of any items lost or damaged during the move. Another reason hiring professionals like CitizenShipper is beneficial is that they offer different insurance options to ensure your peace of mind.

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to transport a pet?

Typically, ground transport is the cheapest way to transport a pet.  Longer trips using a transportation service, like CitizenShipper, typically average around $1.00 per mile.  Using a pet transportation service ensures your pet arrives in your new location safely, while minimizing stress and overall cost. 

How much does it cost to ship a pet internationally? 

While shipping your pet domestically is a relatively straightforward process, international shipping can be more complicated.  Hiring a pet transport service to help with international logistics can save a tremendous amount of stress and time.  

Each country of arrival will have specific regulations regarding pet health checks, necessary vaccination, and possible quarantine requirements.  The cost to ship a pet internationally can vary, especially if you need to board your pet for an extended quarantine. 

How much does it cost to transport cats?

The cost to transport cats will vary depending on the transport method.  Cats can be transported via ground or air transit, and are often small enough to be considered a “carry on” item.  Transporting a cat can cost as little as $25 on Amtrak, or as much as $125 to fly in the main cabin of an airplane.

How much does it cost to travel with a small pet?

Traveling with a small pet, compared to a large pet, is much cheaper.  Smaller pets can fit under the seat in front of you and can often qualify as a “carry on” item.  Traveling with small pets on Amtrak can cost $25, while airlines can charge around $125.  Keep in mind certain companies will only allow cats and dogs to travel.  

What does it cost to ship a puppy?

While puppies are small enough to fly in most airline cabins, they can incur additional costs.  Puppies generally require more attention, and therefore can be more expensive than shipping an adult dog or cat.  

Many breeders will utilize an air nanny service to accompany your puppy.  If the air nanny is experienced, or a regular, certain airlines may provide discounted rates or waive certain fees.  Breeders regularly ship puppies to their new homes and are well-versed in arranging transportation.  

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to avoid breaking a TV when moving is essential for a successful, stress-free move. By following the right packing procedures and entrusting your TV to professional movers, you can ensure your TV arrives at your new home safe and sound. Remember, the goal isn’t just to move but to move with peace of mind and taking steps to protect your TV plays a big part in that.