How to move a storage shed

In the world of DIY, space is always at a premium. If you’ve got a storage shed in your backyard, you’ll love it when you need to store lawnmowers or garden tools during the winter. However, moving a storage shed requires careful planning and execution if you don’t want to damage it in any way. There are risks involved with any kind of moving process, but as long as you take the time to prepare and follow these top 10 tips for moving a storage shed, the results will be well worth it!

Make sure the shed is clean and dry before moving it

A clean and dry shed will be less likely to sustain damage during the move. Make sure the shed is thoroughly cleaned and that the floor is dry before attempting to move it. If you’re moving a wooden shed, be sure to cover the floor with a tarp to protect it from moisture. You can also place down a thick layer of cardboard to protect the floor, but be sure to cover the roof and walls with a tarp to protect them from moisture, too.

Use a dolly or hand trolley during the move

Using a hand or dolly trolley will reduce the amount of pressure on the shed frame and make the move a lot easier. It will also reduce the distance you have to push or pull the shed, making it less likely to develop any squeaks or groans in its frame. If you’re using a dolly trolley, choose one that has a “brake” feature so that you can stop the shed in mid-motion. If you’re using a hand trolley, put the shed on wooden skids to protect the floor of the shed and make it easier to pull.

Use ropes to tighten any slack in the shed frame

If you notice that the shed frame is a bit loose while you’re moving it, use ropes to pull it tighter. You can tie one end of the rope to the frame and the other to the back of your tow vehicle or a strong piece of furniture you’re pushing it with. If the shed has a wooden floor, put a piece of cardboard or a tarp under the ropes to protect the shed. Make sure the ropes aren’t too tight, as this can cause the frame to splinter or warp.

Have helpers on hand to assist with lifting and turning

If your shed is large or heavy, have some friends on hand to help lift it onto the dolly or hand trolley. Make sure that everyone wears gloves and protective footwear during the move. Turning the shed is also easier with a couple of helpers. If you’re using a dolly trolley, put the shed on wheels so that it’s easier to turn.

Wrapping is a smart idea when moving a shed

If you’re moving a wooden shed, you may want to consider wrapping it. Wrapping is particularly important if you’ve got a shed with an untreated wood floor. Choose a high-quality wrapping material and wrap the shed snugly, but not too tight. Make sure the wrapping doesn’t cover the roof or walls so that the shed won’t get too wet. If you’re wrapping a metal shed, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly covered, as metal sheds have no protection from the elements.

Be aware of your environment while moving

If you’re moving a shed in the winter, you’ll want to be sure the ground is clear of ice and snow before lifting it. If you’re moving a shed in the summer, make sure it doesn’t get too hot. If you’re moving a wooden shed in the summer, you may want to consider wrapping it to protect it from moisture and sun damage. If you’re moving a metal shed in the summer, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly covered so the sun won’t damage it. In both cases, you’ll also want to have a tarp on hand to put under the shed to protect the ground from moisture and dirt.

Choose the right spot and make any necessary adjustments

When you’re ready to put your shed down, make sure you put it in the right place. Make sure it’s not too close to other buildings, trees, or power lines. Also, be sure it’s not in a low spot where water might accumulate. If you need to make adjustments, reposition it on the dolly or hand trolley until it’s in the right spot.

Lock wheels before you lift a storage shed

Before you lift a shed, make sure you lock the wheels on the dolly or hand trolley so that it doesn’t roll away while you’re lifting it. If you’re using a hand trolley, put the shed on wooden skids. If you’re lifting a wooden shed, make sure the wrapping is pulled snugly and that the ropes are not too tight.

Conclusion

Moving a storage shed can be tricky, particularly if it’s large or heavy. Make sure you follow these top 10 tips for moving a storage shed and you’ll have a much easier time with your move. Be sure to prepare the shed for the move by cleaning and covering it, and putting it in the right spot once you’ve moved it.