Chloe Zhang
Moving a plastic storage shed can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and planning, it can be done safely and efficiently. The process involves several steps, including emptying the shed, securing loose parts, lifting it with jacks or a conveyor system, and transporting it with a flatbed trailer or truck. The size and weight of the shed will determine the number of people and type of equipment needed, such as simple floor jacks or hydraulic lifts. It is important to assess the condition of the shed and consider potential risks before attempting to move it. Professional movers or equipment rental may be necessary for larger structures. Safety should always be a top priority, and careful preparation can help ensure a smooth relocation process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Complexity of the process | Depends on the shed's size, condition, distance of the move, and means of moving |
| Preparation | Planning the move, securing the shed, removing windows, adding diagonal supports across openings, and checking the ground for obstacles |
| Lifting | Using jacks, conveyor systems, or digging holes to place jacks for smaller sheds |
| Transportation | Flatbed trailer or truck, rolling on pipes, or dragging on a wooden sled |
| Safety | Ensure a clear path, check for overhead wires, and assess the ground stability |
| People | Depending on the shed's size, at least two people might be needed |
| Professional help | Consider hiring professional movers or renting equipment |
| Plastic shed specific | Lightweight and modular design, but susceptible to scratches or warping |
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What You'll Learn
Preparation and safety
First, assess the condition, size, and weight of your shed. Plastic sheds are typically lightweight and modular, but older sheds may be susceptible to scratches or warping during the move. If your shed is too large, old, or damaged, consider hiring a professional shed removal service. Detaching components like windows, doors, or shelves can make the shed more manoeuvrable and protect them from damage. Remove any contents from the shed to reduce its weight and safeguard your items.
Next, check your surroundings. Ensure there is a clear path for the move, with no overhead wires or obstacles on the ground. Make sure the fence or yard gates are wide enough to accommodate the shed, and check that you won't hit any trees or damage anything during the process. If your shed is bolted to the foundation, consider whether it is easier to order a new shed rather than moving the existing one.
Before lifting the shed, you must secure it properly. Add diagonal supports across window and door openings, as these are weak points. Use jacks to lift the shed, digging access holes if necessary, and ensure all jacks and supports are level and secure. The number of jacks and people needed will depend on the size of your shed—it's always better to have too much help than too little.
Finally, choose the right equipment for transport. Smaller sheds can be moved on a makeshift wooden sled or a "conveyor belt" of sturdy pipes. For larger sheds, consider using a flatbed truck or trailer. Remember, safety should always come first, so don't hesitate to ask for help or hire professionals if needed.
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Lifting and moving equipment
- Lifting Equipment: For smaller sheds, simple floor jacks can be used to lift the structure. For heavier sheds, hydraulic lifts or cranes may be required. Cranes, such as mobile cranes, can be easily transported and used to lift heavy loads.
- Rollers or Dollies: These are ideal for smaller sheds or short-distance moves. They can support the shed's weight and make it easier to move.
- Flatbed Truck or Trailer: Larger sheds or longer moves may require a flatbed truck or trailer for transportation. Ensure you have ramps for loading and unloading the shed onto the trailer or truck, especially for larger structures.
- Pipes: If you plan to move the shed across your yard, consider using sturdy pipes longer than the shed. Roll the shed onto the pipes and slowly push it in the desired direction. Thicker-walled Schedule 40 PVC pipes with a diameter of at least 4 inches (10.2 cm) are often suitable for smaller sheds.
- Conveyor System: A makeshift conveyor system can be employed for smaller sheds, simplifying the relocation process.
- Forklifts: Forklifts are versatile lifting equipment that can handle various materials and loads. They are useful for lifting and transporting pallets, goods, or equipment.
- Vacuum Lifters: Vacuum lifters use suction cups to create a seal with the material surface, allowing them to lift and move flat materials such as sheet metal or glass panels.
- Tool Balancers: Tool balancers are commonly used in aerospace manufacturing and can assist in lifting and positioning heavy objects.
Remember, safety should always be a top priority. Assess the capabilities and potential risks before attempting to move the shed, and don't hesitate to seek professional help or rent the necessary equipment.
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Detaching components
First, empty the shed of all its contents. This is a crucial step as it reduces the weight of the shed and prevents potential damage to the items inside. Next, you should disconnect utilities such as water and electricity. This is an important step to avoid any accidents or damage to the utilities themselves.
Windows, doors, and shelves are some of the components that should be safely detached before moving the shed. Windows are particularly vulnerable to damage during the move, so it is advisable to remove them beforehand. You can also add additional diagonal supports across window and door openings, as these are weak points that need reinforcement.
If your shed has any attached shelves, it is a good idea to detach them as well. This will not only make the shed lighter but also prevent the shelves from being damaged or broken during the move. Make sure to securely store all the detached components so that they can be easily reassembled after the move.
Finally, it is important to assess the overall condition of your plastic shed before detaching any components. Older sheds or those that have already started breaking down may be too fragile to move without professional help. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective and safer to simply purchase a new shed rather than attempting a complex move.
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Digging and jacking
Plastic sheds are typically the easiest to move due to their lightweight and modular design. However, they can be susceptible to scratches or warping, so it is important to take extra care when relocating them.
If you are planning to move a plastic storage shed, one method you can use is the digging and jacking technique. This involves using jacks to lift the shed and then moving it to the desired location. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Secure the shed structure: Before lifting the shed, it is important to secure loose parts and reinforce weak points. Remove any windows and doors, as they can break during the move. Add diagonal supports across openings and nail or screw boards into the studs from corner to corner on each wall and in an X pattern across the floor to help the shed maintain its shape.
- Dig and place jacks: Dig under the shed to create access holes for the jacks. For larger sheds, you will need four access holes, one at each corner. For smaller sheds, two access holes in the middle of opposite sides may suffice. Make sure you dig only as much as needed to securely place the jacks under the shed frame.
- Lift with jacks: Use mechanical or hydraulic jacks to lift the shed. If you have multiple jacks, you can lift the entire structure at once. Otherwise, you may need to lift one side at a time, prop it up securely with blocks or lumber, and then continue lifting the remaining sides. Lift the shed to the minimum necessary height, just enough to place rollers or a conveyor system underneath.
- Place rollers or a conveyor system: If you plan to roll the shed to its new location, place rollers or a conveyor system made of sturdy pipes and boards underneath. Schedule 40 PVC pipes with a diameter of at least 4 inches are commonly used for smaller sheds. Make sure the rollers or pipes are longer than the shed and sturdy enough to hold its weight.
- Move the shed: Once the shed is securely lifted and the rollers or conveyor system are in place, carefully ease the shed down onto them. Slowly push the shed in the desired direction, controlling your movements and planning ahead. If using pipes, you will need to repeatedly reposition them as you move forward, similar to laying railroad tracks.
- Final checks: After relocating the shed, conduct a thorough inspection to ensure it is positioned correctly and securely in its new location. Reattach any components that were detached during the move, such as windows, doors, or shelves, and make sure they fit securely and function properly.
Remember to always prioritise safety when moving a shed. Depending on the size and weight of your shed, you may need additional help from friends or professionals. Proper planning and preparation will ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation process.
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Final checks
Once you have moved your plastic shed to its new location, it is important to conduct a thorough inspection. This ensures that the shed is not only positioned correctly but also secure and ready for use.
Firstly, check that the shed is level and stable. Place a spirit level on the floor of the shed and adjust the shed's position until the bubble is centred, indicating a level surface. If the shed is not level, adjust its position or use shims to create a level base.
Next, examine the shed for any signs of damage. Plastic sheds are susceptible to scratches or warping during the move. Inspect the walls, roof, and floor for any dents, cracks, or other damage. If you notice any issues, make the necessary repairs or replacements.
Reattach any components that were detached for the move, such as windows, doors, or shelves. Ensure that each component fits securely and functions properly. Check that the doors open and close smoothly and that the windows are properly sealed.
Inspect the roof for any damage or leaks. Plastic shed roofs are typically lightweight and easy to handle. Ensure that the roof panels are securely attached and that there are no gaps or holes that could allow water ingress.
Finally, check the surrounding area. Ensure that the shed is not obstructing any pathways, gates, or access points. Verify that there are no overhead wires or trees that could pose a hazard. Also, examine the ground for stability, ensuring it can withstand the weight of the shed and potential additional loads, such as snowfall or strong winds.
By following these final checks, you can ensure that your plastic storage shed is safely and securely relocated and ready for use in its new location.
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Frequently asked questions
Empty the shed and remove all items inside. If necessary, disconnect water, electricity, and other utilities. Detach components such as windows, doors, or shelves to protect them and make the shed more manoeuvrable.
Lifting equipment such as jacks, rollers or dollies, and a flatbed truck or trailer. If you're moving the shed across your yard, you can also use pipes to roll the shed on.
Dig holes under the shed to place jacks and lift it. You may need to dig four holes, one at each corner, or two holes for smaller sheds. Jack up the shed to the minimum necessary height, ensuring all jacks and supports are level and secure.
Choose pipes that are longer than the shed and sturdy enough to hold its weight. Place the pipes under the shed and slowly push the shed in the desired direction. Repeat the process, moving the pipes as you go.
Ensure the surrounding area is safe by checking for overhead wires and obstacles on the ground. Make sure there's a clear path for the move, including checking that gates are wide enough and there are no trees in the way.
