How Much To Move A Storage Shed? Costs, Factors & Diy Vs. Pros

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So, you’re thinking about moving your storage shed? Maybe you’re relocating your entire home, or perhaps you just want to shift the shed to a more convenient spot in your yard. Whatever the reason, you’re probably wondering, how much to move a storage shed? The answer, like most things, isn’t a simple one.

The cost to move a shed can vary wildly. It depends on factors like the shed’s size, its construction, the distance you’re moving it, and whether you’re tackling the project yourself or hiring professionals. This guide will break down all the costs involved, helping you plan your shed relocation and avoid any nasty surprises. We’ll explore DIY options, professional services, and everything in between.

Let’s get started and figure out the best (and most affordable) way to get your storage shed where it needs to be!

Understanding the Costs: What Affects How Much It Costs to Move a Shed?

The price tag for moving a storage shed isn’t fixed. Several key elements will influence the final cost. Knowing these factors beforehand allows you to budget effectively and make informed decisions.

1. Shed Size and Construction

Size matters. A small, pre-fabricated shed will obviously be cheaper to move than a large, custom-built one. Larger sheds require more labor, specialized equipment, and potentially, permits. The construction materials also play a big role. A lightweight plastic shed is easier to handle than a heavy wooden one, and a shed built with concrete or brick is the most challenging (and expensive) to relocate.

Small Sheds (e.g., 8×8 feet or smaller): These are generally the easiest and cheapest to move. They might even be movable by a few strong people, especially if they’re pre-fabricated or made of lighter materials.
Medium Sheds (e.g., 10×12 feet): These often require professional assistance and specialized equipment, like a forklift or a crane.
Large Sheds (e.g., 12×16 feet or larger): Moving these sheds is complex and typically requires a professional moving company. They may need to disassemble the shed partially, transport the components, and then reassemble it at the new location.

Construction type is another crucial consideration:

Pre-fabricated sheds: These are generally easier to move because they are often designed for disassembly and reassembly.
Wooden sheds: These can be heavier and might require reinforcement during the move.
Metal sheds: These can be surprisingly heavy and may require specialized equipment to lift and transport.
Brick or concrete sheds: These are the most challenging and expensive to move. They often need to be partially dismantled, transported, and rebuilt by experienced professionals. This is often impractical, and building a new shed may be more cost-effective.

2. Distance of the Move

Distance is a significant cost factor. Moving a shed across your yard is vastly different from moving it across town or to a different state. The longer the distance, the more expensive the move becomes. This is due to increased labor costs, transportation expenses (fuel, vehicle maintenance), and the potential need for permits.

Within the Same Yard: This is typically the cheapest option. You might be able to move the shed yourself (depending on its size and construction) or hire a local handyman or a small moving crew.
Across Town: This involves transporting the shed over public roads, which often requires a truck and potentially permits.
Long-Distance Move (e.g., to a New State): This is the most expensive option. You’ll need a specialized moving company that has the equipment and expertise to handle long-distance shed relocation. This often includes disassembling the shed, transporting it on a flatbed truck, and reassembling it at the new location.

3. Accessibility and Terrain

The accessibility of your shed and the terrain it sits on are crucial. Is your shed easily accessible by machinery? Are there obstacles like trees, fences, or narrow pathways that could complicate the move? Is the ground level and stable? (See Also: How Bad Do French Bulldogs Shed? A Guide to Managing the Fur)

Easy Access: If your shed is located in an open area with easy access for trucks and equipment, the move will be simpler and less expensive.
Difficult Access: If the shed is in a tight spot, surrounded by obstacles, or on uneven terrain, the move becomes more challenging. This may require specialized equipment (like a crane) and more labor, increasing the cost.
Terrain: A level, stable surface is ideal. Slopes, soft ground, or areas prone to flooding can add complexity and cost. Professionals may need to prepare the ground at the new location.

4. Permits and Regulations

You might need permits. Depending on your local regulations, you may need permits to move your shed, especially if it’s being moved across public roads. These permits can add to the overall cost and require time to obtain. Contact your local building department or planning office to inquire about permit requirements.

Building Permits: Required if you’re modifying the shed or its foundation.
Transportation Permits: May be needed for moving the shed on public roads, especially for larger sheds.
Zoning Regulations: Check if the new location complies with zoning regulations, such as setback requirements.

5. Diy vs. Professional Moving Services

This is a major cost differentiator. Deciding whether to move the shed yourself or hire professionals significantly impacts the overall expenses. DIY can save money but requires time, effort, and possibly renting equipment. Hiring professionals provides convenience and expertise but comes with a higher price tag.

DIY Moving: This can be the most cost-effective option, particularly for small, lightweight sheds and short moves. However, you’ll need to have the necessary skills, tools, and assistance. You’ll also need to consider the risks involved, such as potential damage to the shed or injury to yourself.
Hiring Professionals: This is the safest and most convenient option, especially for larger or more complex moves. Professional moving companies have the equipment, expertise, and insurance to handle the move efficiently and safely. However, this option is the most expensive.
Partial DIY: You might choose to handle some aspects of the move yourself (like preparing the site) and hire professionals for the more challenging tasks (like lifting and transporting the shed).

6. Additional Services and Considerations

Beyond the core moving costs, other factors can influence the final bill.

Shed Preparation: This includes tasks like disconnecting utilities (if any), removing contents, and securing doors and windows.
Site Preparation: Preparing the new location, such as leveling the ground or building a new foundation, can add to the cost.
Disassembly and Reassembly: If the shed is large or complex, it may need to be disassembled before moving and reassembled at the new location.
Insurance: Ensure the moving company has adequate insurance to cover potential damage to the shed or your property. Consider purchasing additional insurance if needed.
Storage: If you need to store the shed temporarily during the move, factor in storage costs.

Breaking Down the Costs: A Detailed Look

Let’s dive deeper into the potential costs associated with moving a storage shed. These figures are estimates, and the actual costs will vary depending on your specific circumstances.

Diy Moving Costs

If you’re opting for a DIY move, your costs will be primarily related to equipment rental, materials, and potentially, assistance from friends or family. Here’s a breakdown:

Equipment Rental:

Trailer: $50 – $150 per day (depending on size)
Truck: $75 – $200 per day (if needed, depending on size)
Moving Straps/Ratchets: $10 – $30 (one-time purchase)
Dollies: $15 – $30 per day (optional)
Forklift (if needed): $200 – $500 per day

Materials:

Lumber (for temporary supports, if needed): $20 – $100 (depending on the amount)
Fasteners (screws, nails): $10 – $30

Labor:

Your Time: Priceless! (Consider the time investment involved.)
Assistance (friends/family): Consider offering a thank-you gift or meal.

Other:

Fuel: Calculate the fuel costs for the truck/trailer.
Permits (if required): $0 – $100+ (depending on your local regulations)

Estimated DIY Moving Cost Range: $50 – $1000+, depending on the shed’s size, distance, and the equipment you need to rent. The lower end is for small sheds moved within the same yard, and the higher end is for larger sheds requiring a trailer or truck rental and some specialized equipment.

Professional Moving Services Costs

Hiring professional movers offers convenience and peace of mind, but it comes at a cost. Here’s what you can expect: (See Also: Stop Burrowing! How to Prevent Animals From Burrowing Under Your Shed)

Hourly Rates: Many moving companies charge an hourly rate, typically ranging from $75 to $200+ per hour, depending on the size of the crew and the equipment required.
Flat Fees: Some companies offer flat fees based on the shed’s size, distance, and complexity of the move.
Factors Affecting Professional Costs:

Shed Size and Weight: Larger and heavier sheds will cost more.
Distance: Longer distances increase fuel costs and labor time.
Accessibility: Difficult access (e.g., tight spaces, slopes) adds to the cost.
Complexity: Disassembly, reassembly, and site preparation increase the cost.
Geographic Location: Moving costs can vary depending on your location.

Additional Costs:

Permits (if required): The moving company may handle permit acquisition for an additional fee.
Insurance: Ensure the moving company has adequate insurance to cover potential damage.
Materials (e.g., packing supplies): The moving company may provide packing materials for an extra charge.

Estimated Professional Moving Cost Range: $300 – $5,000+ or more. This range is very broad because of the many variables. A small shed moved a short distance might cost a few hundred dollars, while a large shed moved long-distance, requiring disassembly and reassembly, could cost several thousand dollars.

Cost Comparison Table

Here’s a simplified table summarizing the cost differences between DIY and professional moving:

Factor	DIY Moving	Professional Moving
Cost	Lower (equipment rental, materials, time)	Higher (hourly rates, flat fees)
Effort	High (physical labor, time commitment)	Low (professionals handle everything)
Risk	Higher (potential for damage, injury)	Lower (insured, experienced professionals)
Convenience	Lower (requires planning, coordination)	Higher (hassle-free)
Expertise	Requires your skills and knowledge	Professional expertise and equipment

How to Estimate the Cost of Moving Your Shed

Estimating the cost accurately requires careful consideration of the factors discussed above. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Assess Your Shed: Measure the shed’s dimensions, estimate its weight (if possible), and note its construction materials.
Determine the Distance: Measure the distance between the current and new locations.
Evaluate Accessibility: Assess the access routes and terrain at both locations.
Research Local Regulations: Contact your local building department or planning office to inquire about permit requirements.
Get Quotes (If Hiring Professionals): Contact multiple moving companies and request quotes. Provide them with detailed information about your shed and the move. Compare the quotes carefully, considering the services offered and the costs.
Calculate DIY Costs: If you’re considering DIY, research equipment rental costs, material costs, and estimate the time and labor involved.
Factor in Contingency: Add a buffer (e.g., 10-20%) to your estimated costs to account for unexpected expenses.

Tips for Saving Money on Moving Your Shed

Moving a shed can be expensive, but there are ways to minimize the costs:

DIY Where Possible: If you’re comfortable with the physical labor and have the necessary skills, handling some aspects of the move yourself (like preparing the site or packing) can save money.
Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Contact several moving companies and compare their prices and services.
Be Flexible with Dates: Moving companies may offer discounts for moves scheduled during off-peak seasons or weekdays.
Declutter Before the Move: Get rid of unwanted items inside the shed before the move to reduce its weight and potentially lower the moving costs.
Prepare the Site: If you can prepare the new location (e.g., leveling the ground) yourself, you may be able to reduce the moving company’s labor costs.
Consider Selling and Rebuilding: In some cases, especially for large, complex sheds, it might be more cost-effective to sell the existing shed and build a new one at the desired location.
Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with moving companies. You may be able to get a better price by discussing your budget and needs.

Final Verdict

So, how much to move a storage shed? The answer is, it depends! The costs can vary significantly based on numerous factors, from the shed’s size and construction to the distance of the move and whether you DIY or hire professionals. Careful planning, thorough research, and getting multiple quotes are crucial to ensuring a smooth and cost-effective shed relocation. Weigh the pros and cons of DIY versus professional services to make the best decision for your needs and budget.

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