Ever looked at your garden shed and thought, “That’s not where I want it anymore”? Maybe it’s blocking sunlight. Maybe you’re redoing your garden. Or maybe you’re moving to a new home and want to take it with you.
Many people reach a point where their shed needs a new spot — but the big question is: “How do you move a storage shed without breaking it or hurting yourself?”
The good news? It’s possible. You don’t always need fancy machines or a big crew. With the right tools, a bit of planning, and a few helping hands, you can move that shed safely and smartly.
This blog will walk you through each step. From checking if your shed can even be moved to setting it up in the new place, we’ll cover everything. Let’s make the job easier and avoid the stress.
Let’s begin.
Can You Even Move Your Shed?
Before we begin how to transport a shed, ask yourself a few questions:
Checkpoint | Yes or No? |
Is your shed made of wood, metal, or plastic? | ✔️ |
Is the shed still strong and not falling apart? | ✔️ |
Is it sitting on a flat base, not deep into the ground? | ✔️ |
Is there space to move it out safely? | ✔️ |
Do you need permission from the council (if big or permanent)? | Maybe |
What Tools and Equipment Do You Need?
Let’s get your tools ready. Here’s a list of basic items:
Tool | Why You Need It |
Jacks and crowbars | To lift the shed off the ground |
PVC pipes or rollers | To roll the shed across the yard |
Moving dolly or trailer | To carry or tow the shed |
Plywood boards | To keep the shed steady on uneven ground |
Strong straps or chains | To hold everything tight and safe |
Gloves and boots | For safety while lifting and moving |
Get the Shed Ready for the Move
Before you even start lifting the shed, let’s make sure it’s fully prepared and nothing gets in the way.
Here’s what you need to do step by step.
First, Empty Everything Inside
Take out all the tools, boxes, and anything else stored inside the shed. You want it to be as light as possible. Moving a full shed is not just hard — it can also damage the inside items or even break the structure.
Next, Disconnect Any Utilities
If your shed has electricity, lights, or water pipes, make sure they’re all disconnected properly. Turn off the power or shut off the water if needed. You don’t want any wires or pipes pulling or snapping while moving.
Now, Give the Outside a Good Clean
Check for mud around the base or anything sticking to the walls. Also look for wasp nests, spider webs, or any pests that might cause trouble when you grab or lift the shed. A clean shed is safer to handle and easier to move.
Lastly, Measure Everything
Measure the size of your shed so you know exactly how big it is. Then, check the path you’ll use to move it, including doorways, gates, fences, or tight corners. Also, measure the new spot where you want to place the shed so you’re sure it will fit perfectly.
Now, How Do You Move a Storage Shed in Your Backyard?
Whenever it comes to how to relocate a shed, there are two simple ways to do this.
Option 1: Move It with Rollers
This works great for small or medium sheds.
Steps:
- Use a jack to lift one side of the shed.
- Place 3 or 4 PVC pipes under it.
- Push the shed gently from behind.
- Keep moving the pipes forward as you go.
- Place plywood under the rollers if the ground is soft or muddy.
Pro Tip: You will need 2 or 3 people to help.
Option 2: Move It with a Trailer
This is better for longer distances or bigger sheds.
Steps:
- Use jacks and ramps to lift the shed onto the trailer.
- Use strong straps to hold the shed in place.
- Drive slowly and avoid sharp turns or bumpy roads.
Pro Tip: Make sure the trailer is strong enough to carry the shed’s weight.
How to Move a Storage Shed to Another Property
If you’re planning to move your shed to a different house or a new piece of land, there are a few important things you need to take care of first.
Try to Disassemble the Shed If Possible
Some sheds, especially the ones made of wood or plastic panels, can be taken apart. This makes the move much easier and reduces the chance of breaking anything. Take your time with this step, and be sure to label all the parts or take pictures as you go. This will help you put it back together properly later.
Hire a Professional
Big or older sheds can be tricky to move safely without the right tools. A professional moving company can take care of everything — from lifting to transport. They usually have special trailers and lifting gear to do the job right.
Need moving supplies? We’ve got everything you need—sturdy boxes, complete moving kits, bubble wrap, and more. Spend over £60 and enjoy free next-day delivery. Whether you’re moving just a few things or handling large, heavy items, we’ve got you covered.
Not sure how to pack and move efficiently? Visit our blog for easy tips and expert advice from Easy Way Removals!
Make Sure the Shed Stays Safe During the Move
Once the shed is loaded onto a trailer or truck, it’s important to cover it with a tarp or protective sheet to keep out wind, rain, or dust. Use strong straps or chains to hold it firmly in place so it doesn’t shift or fall while on the road.
Setting Up the Shed in the New Spot
Once the shed reaches the new place, do the following:
- Make sure the ground is flat.
- Put gravel, concrete blocks, or treated wood as the base.
- Place the shed on the new base.
- Reconnect utilities if needed.
- Check everything — walls, roof, floor — to make sure nothing is broken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people run into problems when trying to move a shed, mostly because they rush or skip important steps.
One big mistake is not measuring the width of your gates or narrow spaces. If the shed is wider than the gate, it can get stuck halfway through, and you’ll have to backtrack or even take down parts of the fence.
Another common mistake is trying to move the shed alone. Even small sheds are heavy and awkward to carry. Without help, you can easily injure your back, drop the shed, or damage your garden.
Some people also forget to wear proper safety gear like gloves, boots, or back support. This can lead to cuts, splinters, or even serious injuries while lifting or sliding the shed.
And finally, avoid moving the shed on a rainy day. Wet ground gets slippery and soft, which can cause the shed to slide, sink, or tilt while you’re trying to move it. Always wait for dry weather if you can.
Even, we’ve made a guide for you to learn all about how to pack fragile items.
Smart Tips and Tricks
Here are some clever tricks that make shed moving easier:
- Use strong PVC pipes for rolling.
- Wait for a dry, sunny day to move.
- Label doors, panels, and screws if disassembling.
- Ask friends or neighbours to help.
- Use thick gloves to protect your hands.
Wrapping Up — So, How Do You Move a Storage Shed?
Take your time and don’t rush. Moving a shed takes planning, so think ahead about where it’s going and how you’ll move it. Use the right tools like rollers, jacks, and straps to make it easier and safer. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. A small shed can be moved with a few friends, but for bigger or heavier ones, it’s best to call in professionals. In the end, your safety and the shed’s safety come first, so always plan carefully.
FAQs
- Can I move a storage shed by myself?
Moving a storage shed alone is possible for smaller ones, but it’s risky. It’s better to have a few helping hands or hire professionals for larger or heavier sheds to ensure safety and avoid injury.
- How do I move a storage shed on uneven ground?
Moving a shed on uneven ground requires extra care. Use rollers or dollies and lift the shed with a jack, making sure the path is clear. You may need to level the ground in the new location to ensure stability.
- How do I prepare a shed for transport?
Before moving a shed, empty it completely, disconnect utilities, clean the base and exterior, and measure the shed and the new spot. Proper preparation ensures a smooth and safe move.
- Can I move a wooden shed the same way as a metal shed?
Yes, you can move both wooden and metal sheds using similar methods, but metal sheds may require more careful handling. Wood is heavier, so it might need more manpower or equipment for lifting.
- How do I protect the shed during the move?
Cover your shed with a tarp or protective sheets to shield it from rain or wind during transport. Make sure it’s securely strapped to avoid any damage from bumping or shifting.
- How do I move a large storage shed over a long distance?
For long-distance moves, disassembling the shed may be necessary. You can hire professional movers with trucks and specialised equipment for the safe transportation of large sheds over long distances.