How Much Does It Cost to Move a Shed?

Last Updated on March 5, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Moving a shed from one location to another can be a complex and expensive process, but with proper planning and budgeting, it can be done efficiently and cost-effectively. This article will explore the key factors that influence shed relocation costs, provide average price ranges, and offer tips for keeping shed transportation affordable.

Highlights

• Expect to spend $500 – $5000+ to move a shed based on size, distance, and services required.
• DIY shed moving can save money but has more risks.
• Get quotes from multiple reputable companies before deciding.
• Carefully evaluate all potential preparatory and auxiliary costs.
• Plan around off-peak seasons and negotiate discounts to control costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Move a Shed?

The cost for moving a shed can start around $500-$600, for a distance under 20 miles, up to more than $3,000, for a distance over 100 miles.

While costs vary case by case, here are some average price ranges for common shed moving scenarios:

• Local shed move under 20 miles – $500 to $800 usually covers small plastic sheds. For larger 10×10 sheds, may be $800-$1,500.
• Moving medium 6×8 shed under 50 miles – For vinyl resin sheds expect $900-$1,500. Wooden sheds 8×6 could be $1,200-$2,000.
• Moving large 10×12 shed across town – Typical range for wood/metal sheds this size is $2,000-$3,500 for professional movers.
• Long distance over 100 miles – Big sheds like 12×16 transported long distance often fall between $3,000-$5,000 total.

DIY shed moving can cost much less, from $200 to $700 depending on size. But renting equipment, securing permits and preparation work could still add costs.

Professional full-service moving a large 12×16 shed 100+ miles could run $3,000 to $5,000.

Airtasker US notes that the cost of moving a shed typically ranges from $150 to $850, with an average cost of around $400. Factors such as shed size, move distance, building and rebuilding requirements, and additional permits can influence the final price.

The Angi website writes that moving an average-size shed on your property can cost between $200 to $500. If moving the shed to another address, costs can rise up to $1,000, with additional charges for long-distance hauls and larger sheds.

At Glick Sheds the average costs of moving a shed vary based on different scenarios:

• Local Shed Onsite Move: Approximately $250 to $375.
• Local Shed Move: Approximately $400 to $500.
• Onsite Move for Faraway Customers: Approximately $600 to $700.
• Long Distance Shed Move: Approximately $4,000.
• Extra-Wide Long Distance Shed Move: Approximately $6,000 to $7,500

Factors Affecting the Cost to Move a Shed

Several variables affect how much it will cost to move your shed from point A to point B. The main factors include:

Shed size – Larger sheds that require disassembly or have heavy materials will be more expensive to move.

• A 6×4 plastic shed may cost $200-$500 to move while a 12×16 wooden shed could be $1,000-$2,000.
• Small resin sheds up to 80 sq. ft. usually range from $200-$700.
• Mid-size vinyl sheds 100-200 sq. ft. run $500-1200.
• Large wooden sheds over 300 sq. ft. typically cost $1,500-$2,500+.

Distance – Long-distance shed hauling, especially interstate, can greatly increase costs due to fuel, labor hours, and permits. Short local moves under 20 miles will be cheaper.

Accessibility – If the shed is located in a hard-to-reach area without a clear moving path, special equipment like cranes may be required which adds cost.

Needing ramps, dollies, or cranes to move the shed from a tight space can add $200-$500 compared to open access.

Type of Service – Hiring professional shed movers will cost more but may involve extra services like disassembly/reassembly, storage, and securing permits.

Season and Timing – Peak summer moving times often come with price surcharges. Summer shed moving peak rates may have 10-25% surcharge over cheaper fall/winter pricing. Opting for off-season moves can save money.

Choosing a Reputable Shed Moving Company

The company you hire makes a major impact on the overall price. Here are some tips for selecting a shed mover:

• Look for experienced firms like local movers and packers or logistics companies that offer shed transport services.
• Confirm they have the proper shed moving equipment like dollies, ramps, and lifting gear.
• Make sure they’ll handle any required permits for the move.
• Verify they have liability insurance coverage for your shed.
• Ask about their pricing structure – get a binding quote rather than an estimate.
• Inquire about additional fees for assembly/disassembly, storage, etc.
• Check for positive reviews and safety reputation. Avoid companies with major complaints.

Also, read about the cost of building a 20×20 shed, building a house, and getting mobile home insurance.

Preparing Sites and Other Relocation Costs

Beyond the direct transportation fees, other costs may stem from:

• Site preparation – clearing space, grading, gravel, foundation/base at new site.
• Disassembly and reassembly – labor and materials to take the shed apart and put it back together.
• Permits – building permits or utility disconnection fees.
• Insurance – riders to cover your shed in transit and during storage.
• Temporary storage – if there’s a gap between sites being ready.
• Project management – for complex moves, hiring a specialist to oversee the details can be worthwhile to minimize costs.

Tips to Reduce Shed Moving Expenses

To help control your shed relocation budget, keep these cost-saving measures in mind:

• Get multiple bids – contact at least 3 companies to compare prices
• Ask for discount rates – negotiate prices during off-peak seasons
• Do prep work yourself – clean out the shed and secure belongings to save labor fees
• Consider DIY small moves – for short distances, you may save with a rented truck and equipment
• Time the move strategically – avoid peak summer season surcharges
• Compare storage shed prices – sometimes it’s less expensive to buy a new shed than to move the old one

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you prepare a shed for moving?

To get a shed ready for relocation, first empty the interior completely and clean it out. Dismantle any shelving secured to walls and take down hanging objects. For larger sheds, you may need to detach the shed from its current foundation or anchors in the ground.

Make sure entryways are clear to allow easy access. Have tools on hand for any necessary disassembly of the structure. Trim back nearby trees or plants that could obstruct the moving path. And check with your local permitting office to see if you need authorization or temporary road usage permits.

How much does a shed weigh?

The weight of a shed depends mainly on its size and construction material. A small 6×4 plastic resin shed may weigh 500-1000 lbs. Mid-size 8×6 vinyl sheds often range 1000-2000 lbs. Larger wooden sheds from 10×8 to 12×20 can weigh anywhere from 2000-8000 lbs. when assembled.

Portable metal sheds also vary greatly based on size and components. Always check manufacturer specs for weight limits when planning a shed move.

How do you move a shed without damaging it?

To avoid damage when moving a shed: disassemble the unit if possible, and transport parts individually. For assembled sheds, use dollies and ramps to carefully roll the structure – don’t drag. Make sure the moving path is clear of obstacles, with enough clearance.

Hire professionals with shed moving experience and proper lifting/hauling equipment. Avoid pushing or pulling the shed unit – always lift. Pad doorways and secure loose components internally. For long-distance moves, consider hiring climate-controlled enclosed transport. Taking steps to move the shed safely and securely will help prevent costly repairs.

How Much Does it Cost to Move a 10×12 Shed?

This will usually be the size of a small shed. Moving a 10×12 shed within a small distance or even inside the same yard shouldn’t usually cost more than $600. There are even some companies that won’t charge more than $250 to move a 10×12 shed, while others will charge more, depending on how far you need to have it moved.

How Much Does it Cost to Move a 12×16 Shed?

The price to move a 12×16 shed, which is usually considered a medium-sized one, shouldn’t go over the $1,000 mark most of the time. Even so, you shouldn’t expect to spend less than $300 either for such a project. Most of the time, the average cost of moving a 12×16 shed will fall somewhere between $350 and $600.

How Much Does it Cost to Move a 12×20 Shed?

If you have a 12×20 shed, then you should know that you have one that is usually on the larger side. This means that if you plan to move it, you will most likely require a permit. It will also mean that the cost to move this type of shed will be higher than for ones of smaller sizes.

If you only need to move it locally, you should expect a base price of anywhere between $550 and $750, although it shouldn’t come as a surprise if a company will charge even more than $1,500. It is always a good idea to compare price quotes, especially if you know you have a shed that is on the larger side.