How Much Does It Cost To Move a Shed?
Moving a shed usually starts with a simple goal. Maybe you want to shift it to another place in your backyard or transport it to a new property. But the project can involve more planning and expenses than you think, especially given that the structure itself will weigh hundreds or thousands of pounds.
Read on to find out how much it costs to move a shed. We’ll also show you what influences how much you’ll pay and the pros and cons of doing it yourself versus hiring professionals.
How Much Does Moving a Shed Cost?
The cost of transporting a shed varies because each project has different needs. The pricing typically includes labor, specialized moving equipment, and permits for large items. If it’s too big to move in one piece, you might also have to pay for disassembly and reassembly.
Short moves, like transporting a shed elsewhere on your property, cost between $250.00 and $400.00. Nearby relocations in the same city cost approximately $100.00 more. You can expect to pay in the thousands for long-distance treks, which require driving on highways and using a trailer.
These moving prices give you a good starting point when you’re budgeting for this project.
Cost To Move a Storage Shed: Key Factors
The cost to move a storage building depends on several details related to your property and the job itself. Knowing these elements ahead of time makes it easier to plan properly and avoid surprises.
Shed Size
The size of your shed plays a major role in the final cost. Larger structures weigh more and can require specialized equipment, so relocating them is more expensive.
For example, a large 12x20 or 16x20 structure may need a shed mule or a forklift to handle the weight. While you can possibly move structures this size using rollers, we recommend more heavy-duty equipment, which does the job safely but tends to cost more.
Compact sheds, like 8x10 units, take less time and fewer resources to move. That means these projects are less expensive.
Distance
How far your shed needs to travel significantly affects the pricing. A short move across your property or to another part of your city costs much less than a long-distance journey. Longer treks may include mileage-based fees. Using the moving truck for a longer period also raises the cost.
Accessibility
Access to the shed influences the moving prices. Tight spaces and narrow gates can slow the process down and require extra labor. So can fences and uneven terrain. Similarly, overhead obstacles like power lines may limit how high the shed can be lifted.
If your property has level ground and clear access paths, your moving prices might be lower. These factors make the job faster and reduce the chance of damage.
Type of Foundation
The way your shed sits on the ground also impacts the relocation process. Units resting on foundations like wood skids or gravel are easier to lift and transport. Structures built on permanent bases like concrete blocks and slabs require more labor.
If your shed is anchored to its foundation, detaching it can cost more. If you can’t move the original foundation, you may need to install one at your new home or site.
Do-It-Yourself vs. Professional Shed Movers
Moving your shed on your own may seem like an easy way to save money. But when you do it yourself (DIY), you typically have to coordinate the equipment rental and figure out how to lift and transport a heavy shed without damaging it. While this approach can work for small structures, it also comes with a few risks.
When you don’t have the right moving equipment, experience, or insurance, a DIY move can lead to injuries and structural damage. If you damage your shed, you might have to pay an unexpected repair bill. These risks are why many people hire professional furniture movers. Moving crews are trained and know how to relocate a portable building properly.
Here are some benefits of going with a moving company:
- Specialized equipment and vehicles: Hired crews arrive equipped to do the job. They have tools like shed mules, trailers, and large trucks designed for shifting heavy structures.
- Residential code compliance: You can trust the pros to manage your shed’s relocation, including any disconnection and electrical concerns. These professionals understand local rules for permits and placement so your new structure meets all requirements after the move.
- Less stress: You get to outsource the research, physical strain, and logistics that go along with DIY shed moving.
- Minimal risk of damage: Experienced handlers know how to protect your shed and yard.
Remove Your Shed With Help From College HUNKS
Understanding how much it costs to move a shed helps you plan a smooth relocation.
When you’re ready to move forward, working with experienced professionals makes everything easier. College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving provides reliable shed relocation services for disassembled units that fit in our moving trucks. We can handle local and long-distance treks, and we might also take away sheds you no longer want for disposable. We’re committed to careful handling, so you can trust our expertly trained crews and our high-quality equipment.
Request a free estimate today, or find out more about our junk removal services.
FAQ
Should I Disassemble My Shed Before I Move It?
You can take your shed apart before you move it. Many people do this so it will fit onto a trailer and get around tight spaces. Smaller sheds and models with built-in panels are typically easier to break down. Disassembling them first makes it easier to move without specialized equipment.
Is It Cheaper To Move a Shed or Buy a New One?
In many cases, relocating your existing shed costs less than building a brand-new one, especially if you’re aiming for the same size and quality. Moving a structure locally with the help of experienced pros can be a cost-effective way to keep it.
If your current shed is old or needs a lot of work, building a new one might make more financial sense. This is also true if the shed has to go a long distance. To decide, compare your quoted moving costs with estimates for a replacement shed.
How Do I Find the Right Place To Move a Shed?
If you’re not sure where to build or move your shed, consider what you’ll be using it for and how easy it’ll be to access. You want to place the structure on level ground with ample room around it and a clear path for moving equipment to get in. Avoid obstacles like trees, fences, and power lines.
Don’t forget to take your local zoning rules and permits into account when you’re planning where to move your shed. Do your research so your structure is legal at its new location.