How to ship · electronics
How to ship a large TV
Large TVs have the same rule as computer monitors: ship in the original box only. Modern TVs have custom foam inserts that protect the thin display panel, and no DIY substitute is safe.
- Typical weight
- 55 in: 35-50 lb, 65 in: 45-70 lb, 75+ in: 60-100 lb
- Rate band tracked
- USPS/UPS Ground
- Cheapest option
- Original box + UPS Ground; no original box = specialty shipper
Rate guidance
Heavier than our rate tracker goes
At a minimum of 55 lb, this sits above our 20 lb rate band. USPS Ground Advantage still applies (up to 70 lb), and UPS Ground goes to 150 lb. See the carrier notes below for the realistic options and expected cost.
Why no table: we track representative rates at 12 oz, 1 lb, 5 lb, and 20 lb. Anything between 20 and 70 lb would be an extrapolation, not a live quote. Carrier calculators are the honest answer for that range.
Before you pack
The box and materials
Box
Original TV box only
55 in box: 52 x 32 x 8 in typical
Without the original box, arrange specialty TV shipping or pickup.
Checklist
- Original TV box and foam
- Bubble wrap for any added padding
- Tape
- Fragile stickers
The process
Pack a large TV in 5 steps
01 of 05
Detach the stand and remote
Stand has its own foam cutout. Bag the remote with the stand screws.
02 of 05
Place the TV in the original foam
Screen-side in the pre-cut foam slot.
03 of 05
Accessories in the accessory compartment
Remote, cables, stand, screws, manual in the original top compartment.
04 of 05
Close and seal
Seal the box along the pre-cut seams.
05 of 05
Label This Side Up
Orientation is critical; TVs must ship on edge, not flat.
Carrier notes
Which carrier to use
USPS
Ground Advantage for TVs under 70 lb.
UPS
Ground for larger TVs with Oversize surcharges.
FedEx
Home Delivery; comparable rates.
Insurance + declared value
Protecting the package
Always insure fully. $1,500 TV replaces at $1,500.
Specialty shippers are worth it here.
Without the original box, a specialty shipper like uShip or a TV-specific service is the only realistic option. DIY packing for a large TV without the original box ends in a cracked display 80% of the time.
Get quotes on uShipFAQ
Common questions
Q01 I have the original box but the foam is damaged. Still OK?
No. Damaged foam does not protect. Order replacement foam from the TV manufacturer or skip parcel shipping.
Q02 What about plasma TVs (if you have an old one)?
Same rule: original box only. Plasma panels are more fragile than LCD.
Q03 Can I ship a TV flat, screen-up?
No. All large TVs must ship on edge to prevent internal stress on the panel.