Moving your TV can feel like a big task. If you have a nice flat-screen, the last thing you want is for it to get damaged. Using the right box and packing it the right way makes a big difference and helps keep your TV safe during the move.

Once you’ve hired movers for your home move in Chicago, be sure to ask about the specialty boxes they offer. They’ll probably have a flat panel TV box that can help keep your TV safer during the move. In addition, use these tips to help protect your TV when moving.

Unplug the Power Cord

There’s no reason to leave the cord plugged in while moving your TV. If you can, disconnect it from the back of the TV to make handling easier. Loose cords can easily get in the way, cause someone to trip or lead to accidents.

Take Off the Base

You might not need to do this for every flat-screen TV but if yours has a big base, it’s best to take it off. If you don’t, the TV might not fit in the box properly which can make moving it more difficult.

Keep All the Parts Together

It’s frustrating to unpack your TV at your new place and not be able to find the cords or screws you need to set it up. To avoid this, keep all the hardware, cords and the base stored together in one spot.

Wrap Your TV Before Boxing It

Using foam or bubble wrap can really help protect your TV while moving. To pack it safely, make sure to wrap the TV in foam or bubble wrap before placing it in the box.

You can also use stretch plastic wrap to hold the foam or bubble wrap in place. This helps keep everything secure and prevents the TV from getting scratched.

If you don’t have foam or bubble wrap, you can also use furniture pads, a sheet or a blanket to cover your TV. It’s a good backup option if you’re short on packing supplies.

Make Sure the TV is Safe Inside the Box

After wrapping your TV and placing it in the box, check that it’s held firmly in place. If it’s loose, it might move around and get damaged while moving. Use soft materials like furniture pads, blankets, foam or bubble wrap to keep it snug and secure inside the box.

Place the TV Standing Up

A common mistake when moving a TV is laying it flat. Always keep it standing upright and store it carefully. It’s best to place it between sturdy items like a mattress or dresser to help keep it steady. The key is to make sure the TV doesn’t slide or tip over during the move.

When getting your flat-screen TV ready for a move, make sure you’re using the right box and follow these tips. If it’s not packed properly, you might end up with a cracked, scratched or broken TV — and fixing or replacing it can be expensive.

If you’re concerned about your TV getting damaged, consider hiring STI Moving & Storage to handle it. Professional movers know how to pack and move it safely, so it arrives at your new home just like it left the old one.