How to Transport a TV in a Car: Securing Your Screen on the Go

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In this guide, you’ll learn the secure method to transport your flatscreen without risking cracks or breaks.

Whether it’s a move across town or a short trip, we’ll cover the essentials to ensure your TV arrives in perfect condition.

Let’s get your TV travel-ready.

Can You Transport a TV in a Car?

Yes, you can transport a TV in a car. 

It’s entirely possible to transport a TV in a car. 

However, you must consider the size of your TV in relation to the size of your car. For instance, you’re going to struggle to fit your 90-inch flatscreen into the back of your Mini Cooper. 

However, once you have determined that your TV can indeed fit into your car without being bent, then you’re ready to take your TV on a road trip! 

Can You Transport a TV on Top of a Car?

You should not transport a TV on top of a car. 

The top of your car may be suitable for transporting a kayak or long piece of wood, but it’s the last place you want to put your TV. 

For starters, you would need to lay the TV flat in order to secure it to your roof, which could damage your TV. The last thing you want is to pull up to your new home with a broken TV screen. 

You’re also exposing your TV to the elements by strapping it to the top of your car. Your TV could be destroyed should it start raining in the middle of your trip. 

The TV will likely also be knocked about and shaken by the car’s movements, which could crack the screen or create dead pixels. 

So, if your car is too small to fit your TV into, do not consider mounting it to the roof of your car. 

Instead, borrow a friend’s car or get a rental. You’ll be thankful you did when your TV safely makes it to its destination. 

Should a TV Be Laid Down During Transport?

No, a TV should not be laid down during transport. 

All modern TVs should absolutely not be laid down during transportation. 

Though your TV may seem lightweight and durable, a flatscreen’s internal components are delicately balanced to ensure they don’t break through the screen. 

This means that laying a TV flat, even temporarily, is a big no-no. You could find your TV warped or completely broken, a problem that could cost hundreds of dollars to fix. 

Additionally, something could fall on top of your TV in the moving van, instantly shattering the screen. 

The damage may not be noticeable at first glance, but you could discover hundreds of dead pixels and a large crack once you plug the TV in and turn it on. 

How To Fit a TV in a Car?

You can fit a TV in a car by placing it in the backseat or the trunk. 

There are two ways you can safely fit a TV in a car without damaging it: by putting it in the backseat or the trunk. 

Let’s go over how to properly fit a TV in a car without breaking, warping, or cracking it. 

Box it Up

Before you can fit your TV in your car’s backseat or trunk, you must correctly package it. 

Though you can wrap a TV in moving blankets and bubble wrap while transporting it in a van, we suggest using a TV box when transporting it in a car. 

Because the TV will not be secured between two other flat non-moving surfaces, it must be able to stand upright. Therefore, placing it in a box will not only protect it, but also keep it upright. 

Ensure you also pack the box with bubble wrap and other soft materials to ensure it does not slide or move inside the box, damaging it. 

Watch the video below demonstrating how to pack a TV in a TV box. 

Put it in the Backseat

Does your car have a spacious backseat? If so, then you can fit your TV into your car’s backseat. 

First, you must ensure that your car’s door is big enough for your TV to fit through. 

If your car’s backseat flooring is leveled, consider placing it upright on the floor. However, if your car’s flooring has divisions, you will need to place it on top of the seats. 

Remove any car seats or accessories from the backseats and ensure the seats are straight (as opposed to tilted forward or backward). 

Use your car’s seat belts, straps, or bungee cords to secure it in place. You can also tilt the passenger seat back to hold the TV box in place against the backseat. 

Don’t forget to wrap the TV in bubble wrap or other soft materials before boxing it up! Failure to do so could result in a cracked or scratched TV. 

Note that depending on the size of your TV, it may obscure your vision when placed in the backseat. This could make it difficult to see cars and objects behind you when driving or parking. 

Place it in the Trunk

If your backseat is on the smaller side, try placing your TV upright in the trunk. 

This is a great option for large TVs since they can be placed diagonally, accommodating their big size. 

First, clear out your trunk, since any loose objects could bump into your TV during the drive, damaging it. 

If possible, you can also fold down your car’s seats, creating more trunk space. 

Slide your TV into your trunk, keeping it in an upright position at all times. If you can, try to position it in a way where it block’s as little of your rear vision as possible.

Many trunks have hooks or straps, allowing you to fasten items in place. Use straps, or bungee cords to hold your TV in place. Please remember to wrap the TV in a foam sheet and bubble wrap, as the TV could crack from sliding inside the box during transport.  

This step is particularly important as you want to ensure your TV does not fall over during the trip.

Make sure your trunk can fully close, or your TV could slide out into oncoming traffic or be stolen at a stop light! 

Watch the video below demonstrating how to fit a TV in your car’s backseat and trunk. 

Other Tips To Transport a TV in a Car

Follow our tips below for transporting a TV in a car. 

Transporting a TV in a car is no easy feat. So, it’s important that you take the proper precautions to ensure you and your TV’s safety. 

Let’s go over a few tips to help you smoothly transport your TV in a car.

Safety First 

Large TVs can be difficult to carry, especially if they’re wider than your arm span. 

This could lead to you tripping and falling, unable to see any objects, stairs, or turns ahead of you. 

Not only could this fall damage your TV, but you could also severely injure yourself. 

To make matters worse, your TV warranty will not cover any scratches or cracked screens. This means you will be entirely responsible for paying to repair the TV or purchase a new one.  

Drive Carefully

Shaking a TV can damage its internal hardware, which could break the screen or cause certain features to stop functioning. 

So, it’s crucial that you drive carefully and slowly while transporting your TV. Avoid bumpy roads and be mindful when driving over speed bumps. 

You may also want to ensure your TV is very securely strapped to your car so that the car’s movements will not jiggle it. 

Also, the TV box may block your rear vision, so angle your rear-view mirror so you can see behind you while driving. 

Check out our article Can I Carry a 55, 65, or 75-Inch TV Alone? for instructions on how to safely carry a large TV by yourself. 

Ask for Help When Needed 

Moving a TV can be a big ordeal, so don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. 

Whether you have to ask a neighbor to help you carry the TV or borrow a friend’s van, it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

This isn’t just about keeping the TV in good condition, it’s also about your health and safety. 

So, if you’re moving a big 70-inch TV, ask someone to come and help you out. You’ll be glad you did. 

Wrapping Things Up

Fitting a TV in a car is entirely possible, especially if you have a spacious backseat or trunk. 

Just don’t forget to fasten it to your car to prevent it from falling over and moving during your trip. Ensure you wrap the TV in a foam sheet before placing it in the box to prevent the TV screen from scratching or cracking during transport. 

To make transporting a TV easier (and safer!), exercise caution when carrying a TV, drive carefully, pack your TV in a box, and don’t be afraid to ask for a helping hand. 

What’s your experience fitting a TV in a car? Let us know in the comments below!

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