How to Move a Shed: 9 Tips for a Smooth Move

A storage shed is an asset to any backyard. Your shed can house your yard equipment, tools, seasonal decor, and more—but sometimes, it’s just in a bad spot. Or you may move to a new home and want to bring your trusty shed with you. But how hard is it to move a shed? It's a doable DIY project with the right equipment and some helping hands. Learn how to move a shed safely by following these tips.

1. Plan Ahead

Before doing any manual labor, you must plan your shed-moving project carefully. How far will the shed be moved? What method will you use to move it? Is your path from the old location to the new one clear? The last thing you want is to start moving the shed only to realize you need a trailer instead of a pallet jack.

2. Measure Carefully

Part of planning ahead is ensuring the shed fits in its new location. Measure the shed’s width and height and write it down. Then, measure again to ensure you got the dimensions correct. 

Take the measurements to where you want to move the shed, then use your tape measure to check that the shed will fit there. If not, consider a different location. Don’t forget to check the width of any pathways you’ll use when transporting your shed, too.

3. Check for Anchors

Some sheds stay in place solely because of their heavy weight. But others are anchored to the ground—especially if you live in an area prone to extreme weather events like tornadoes or hurricanes. Check your shed to see if it’s anchored to the ground, and remove any anchors before you start the moving process.

4. Empty the Shed

To be moved successfully, the shed must be empty. You might think leaving a few small items in the shed will be safe, but these items can become a hazard once you start moving. They can roll around or fall off shelves, get damaged, or damage the inside of the shed. And if the shed contains hazardous materials like oil or gasoline, they could spill and cause even more significant problems. Empty the shed of everything to prevent unnecessary problems while moving.

5. Prepare the New Location

Before moving your shed, check that the new location is ready. You must install your shed on level ground that can support its weight. If the ground isn’t level, you’ll need to level it yourself or pay a landscaper. Leveling a yard costs between $1,020 and $3,340, with the total cost depending on the size of the area, the current slope of the ground, and the amount of topsoil needed. You might need to install a concrete slab foundation for your shed, though you can also use concrete pavers.

6. Check Local Regulations

If moving your shed will involve driving on a public road, check your local regulations before you set out. Different areas have different zoning and transportation laws, especially for larger structures that may take up more than one lane when moving. Your municipality may also require a permit to park your moving truck, which can cost between $10 and $80.

7. Use the Right Equipment

The equipment you need to move your shed depends on its size, condition, and the distance of the move. 

• For small sheds or short distances: Roll the shed from its old location to its new one using a series of sturdy pipes as a makeshift conveyor belt. Place the shed on a board and roll it slowly over the pipes. You’ll need a friend to help with this.

• For larger sheds: Place the shed on a sled made from plywood sheets and drag it using a truck or tractor, or pick it up and move it to its new location using a forklift or crane.

• For longer-distance moves: Place the shed on a trailer and tow it to its new location using a pickup truck. Alternatively, rent a moving truck or hire professional movers.

8. Reassemble Carefully

Once you’ve moved the shed to its new location, be careful when you reassemble it. You’ll want to ensure that everything goes back where it came from. If you removed loose windows or shelves before moving the shed, check that you’re reinstalling them in their proper places. And if your shed needs to be anchored to the ground, make doing so a priority to prevent it from blowing away in a strong windstorm.

9. Consider Hiring a Pro

Moving a shed is no easy feat. If you have the right equipment and some family members or friends willing to help, you can move your shed to a new location on your property without hiring anyone to help. However, if you’re not confident in your DIY shed-moving skills or need to move the shed to a different location (such as a new home), hiring a local moving company is smart. Professional movers have the equipment and experience to move your shed to its new location safely and efficiently.