Cart 0

How to Measure, Assemble, Pack and Move a TV Safely

Moving a TV safely starts with choosing the right box, measuring the TV properly and keeping it secure during packing, transport and storage.

MoveinBoxes TV Moving Boxes use a two-piece telescopic design for TVs from approximately 32 to 85 inches. TV Box Inserts are sold separately and recommended for most TV moves.

Important Safety Note

This guide provides general information only. Every TV, access path, vehicle and moving situation is different.

Assess the size, weight and condition of the TV and box before handling. We recommend using two people wherever possible, particularly for larger TVs and the Large TV Moving Box.

Follow your TV manufacturer’s instructions, use appropriate equipment and only proceed where the TV can be lifted, packed and moved safely. Consider using a qualified removalist where needed.

1. Understand TV Screen Sizes

Most household items in Australia are measured in millimetres, centimetres and metres. TVs are different - they are generally described by the diagonal measurement of the visible screen in inches.

Common TV screen sizes are shown below as a quick reference. Remember that the advertised inch size is the diagonal screen measurement only, not the TV’s full outer width or height.

TV screen size Approx. diagonal size
32 inch 81cm
43 inch 109cm
50 inch 127cm
55 inch 140cm
65 inch 165cm
75 inch 191cm
85 inch 216cm

Quick conversion: TV inches × 2.54 = diagonal screen size in centimetres.

2. Measure Your TV Before Choosing a Box

The most important measurement is your TV’s overall width across the front, including the bezel or outer frame.

The TV box has a fixed long dimension, while the telescopic lid adjusts to suit the TV’s height.

Measure the full:

  • Width

  • Height

  • Depth

  • Stand or feet, if they cannot be removed

As a general guide:

If your TV is close to the upper end of a stated screen-size range, use the physical dimensions shown on the relevant product page rather than screen size alone.

This is particularly important for 50 inch TVs, as some models may suit the Small TV Moving Box while others may require the Medium TV Moving Box depending on their overall dimensions.

3. Choose TV Box Inserts

TV Box Inserts are sold separately and recommended for most TV moves.

The inserts are U-shaped and sit around the edges of the TV to help protect the corners and screen while keeping the TV centred inside the carton.

As a guide:

  • Small TV Box: generally 4 inserts

  • Medium TV Box: generally 4-6 inserts

  • Large TV Box: generally 6 or more inserts

Each insert is 300mm wide and is designed to support the edges of the TV while helping keep it away from the outer carton panels.

The assembled box has a 300mm-deep profile. When the TV is correctly centred with inserts, this helps create separation between the screen and the sides of the carton.

The box is not crush-proof. Do not lean heavy furniture, appliances or boxes against it, and do not stack items on top.

Dimensions of the TV Box insert

4. Prepare the TV

Before packing:

  • Turn the TV off and allow it to cool if it has recently been used.

  • Remove cables, wall-mount brackets and removable accessories.

  • Remove the TV stand where possible.

  • Place screws, bolts and small components in a labelled bag.

  • Make sure the TV is dry and free of loose dust before packing. Do not use water or spray cleaner immediately before placing it in the box.

  • Avoid applying tape directly to the screen or TV surface.

If you are unsure how to remove the stand safely, check the manufacturer instructions for your model.

A clean, dry moving blanket or soft blanket can provide extra protection around the screen or help fill spare space inside the box. Do not use so much wrapping that it forces the box tight against the screen.

5. How to Assemble and Pack Your TV Moving Box

MoveinBoxes TV Moving Boxes use two telescopic cardboard sections:

  • Base: the smaller section, which sits on the floor.

  • Lid: the larger section, which slides down over the base and TV.

The lid is slightly wider and longer than the base, allowing it to telescope over the completed lower section.

A Note on Safe Handling

We recommend assembling, loading and moving a packed TV box with two people wherever possible.

This is particularly important for larger TVs and the Large TV Moving Box, which can be bulky and awkward to handle even when the TV itself is relatively light.

For larger TVs, a suitable dolly or hand trolley may help when moving the completed box over flat, clear surfaces. The dolly should support the weight of the box, but two people are still recommended to guide and stabilise it.

Step 1: Open and Square Both Box Sections

Starting with the flat-packed base, gently open the carton using the existing cut and fold lines as your guide. Do not force or create new bends in the cardboard.

Square the carton into its rectangular shape, with the pre-scored folds forming the corners.

Fold the two shorter flaps inward at one end. Then fold the two longer flaps over them to close that end.

Use several full-length runs of quality packing tape along the centre join where the longer flaps meet. For extra strength, add tape across the shorter flap joins as well.

Repeat this process with the larger lid section, closing the opposite end.

The base should be closed at the bottom and open at the top. The lid should be closed at the top and open at the bottom so it can slide down over the base.

Step 2: Position the Lower Inserts

Place the assembled base on the floor with its closed end underneath.

TV Box Inserts are U-shaped. Position the lower inserts with the U opening facing upward.

The longest part of each insert should run across the shorter depth of the box. Position the inserts evenly along the width of the TV.

As a guide:

  • Using 4 inserts: place 2 inserts in the base, generally one near each end rather than directly against the carton ends.

  • Using 6 inserts: place 3 inserts in the base, with the third insert near the middle.

Keep the lower insert positions in mind, as the upper inserts should sit directly above them.

Using Additional Inserts

If you have purchased additional inserts, plan where they will sit before placing the TV into the box. They can be used around the TV’s edges for extra support where space allows.

Add extra inserts in matching opposing positions so the TV remains evenly supported. For example, if you add an insert near one end or edge, add another in the corresponding position on the opposite side.

Do not add inserts unevenly, force the lid down, or use so many inserts that they put pressure on the TV frame or screen.

Step 3: Place the TV Into the Base

Remove the stand where possible, then carefully lower the TV upright into the base so it sits securely in the lower inserts.

We recommend using two people to load the TV into the box, particularly for larger screens.

Avoid placing the screen face-down on hard floors, rough surfaces or other items while preparing it.

Step 4: Fit the Upper Inserts and Lid

Once the TV is sitting in the lower inserts, have at least one person keep it upright and stable.

A second person can then place the remaining inserts over the top edge of the TV, with the U opening facing downward. Position each upper insert directly above its matching lower insert so the TV is supported evenly from top to bottom.

With one person still stabilising the TV, carefully lower the larger lid section over the TV, upper inserts and base until it fits snugly.

Do not leave the TV unsupported in the base while fitting the lid. Keep it upright and supported until the lid is in place and the completed box has been taped securely.

Step 5: Adjust the Lid for a Shorter TV

The lid adjusts vertically to suit the overall height of your TV.

If the TV is shorter and the lid extends below the base, lower the lid until the box fits snugly. Mark the excess at the open end of the lid, trim it carefully as needed, then fold the remaining flaps over the base and tape them securely.

Do not cut the box so tightly that it puts pressure on the inserts, TV frame or screen.

Step 6: Tape the Completed Box Securely

Once the lid is fitted, tape the lid and base together vertically around each end of the assembled box.

Run tape from underneath the base, up one side, over the lid and down the other side. Use more than one full wrap around each end to make sure the lid and base are secure.

Add one or more additional tape wraps around the middle of the box where needed.

Before moving the TV, check that:

  • The TV cannot move inside the box.

  • The lid and base are firmly joined.

  • All carton seams are taped securely.

  • No tape is attached directly to the TV or screen.

6. Move the Packed TV Safely

Keep the packed TV upright while carrying, loading and unloading wherever possible.

  • We recommend using two people to move the completed box, particularly for larger TVs.

  • Lift from underneath the base of the assembled box, not from the top flaps or taped joins.

  • Use safe lifting techniques and only lift within your capability.

  • For larger TVs, use a suitable dolly or hand trolley on flat, clear surfaces where practical.

  • Avoid dragging the box or resting it on sharp edges.

  • Keep the box away from wet surfaces.

  • Do not stack other items on top of the packed TV.

If you are using removalists, check with them beforehand whether they are happy to load, secure and transport the boxed TV. Let them know the TV is packed in a telescopic moving box and should remain upright during handling and transport.

7. Store the Packed TV Safely

Store the TV upright in a clean, dry area away from direct heat, moisture and leak risks.

Avoid storing it directly near:

  • Fridges

  • Washing machines

  • Water heaters

  • Wet areas

  • Boxes containing liquids

Do not place heavy items against the TV box or use it as a surface for other boxes.

For longer storage periods, check occasionally that the carton remains dry, upright and undamaged.

Need a TV Box?

Shop our range of Small, Medium and Large TV Moving Boxes, then add TV Box Inserts for extra protection.

If you are unsure which box suits your TV, contact MoveinBoxes before ordering and we will help you choose the best option.