Written by

Kristen Cramer

April 26, 2024

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Tara Farmer

Average cost to move a shed

The cost to move a shed is $300 to $1,500 for local moves up to 50 miles and $3,000 to $6,000 for long-distance moves. Shed moving prices depend on the shed size, weight, location, accessibility, the move distance, and the permits required. Moving a large shed costs the most, as it's considered an oversized load.

• Moving a large shed typically requires a crane or forklift, adding extra equipment fees.

• Large sheds may require additional permits for transporting an oversized load, increasing the cost. Some states also require a pilot car or vehicle escort to travel with oversized loads.

• Wooden sheds weigh more than metal sheds, resulting in higher transport costs.

Factors that affect the cost of moving a shed

The following factors impact the cost to move a shed:

• Shed size & weight: Larger and heavier sheds cost more to move due to extra equipment and vehicle escort fees.

• Location & accessibility: Costs increase for sheds surrounded by obstructions or located in an area that is difficult to access with a vehicle.

• Labor: Most shed moving companies include 1.5 to 4 hours of labor in their price, depending on the company. They typically bill additional time at a rate of $50 to $70 per hour.

• Distance: Generally, the farther the move, the higher the cost. Moving a shed across town or to a different state costs significantly more than moving it to another spot on the same property due to the extra time, labor, fuel, and permits required.

• Permits & fees: Moving a shed often involves multiple permits, depending on the move distance and route. Permit requirements and fees vary depending on the shed size and the regulations for each town and state along the transport route.

• Additional fees: Most shed transport companies charge extra if the move requires adding skids or extra blocks:

  • Skids add $75 to $100 to the moving cost if your shed does not already have the skids that are necessary to lift and move it.

  • Blocks cost $4 to $5 each. Most companies will reuse the blocks from the existing shed but charge extra if they need more blocks at the new location.

FAQs about moving a shed

Do I need a permit to move a shed?

Whether you need a permit to move a shed depends on the shed size, move distance, transport route, and local laws and regulations. Some cities do not require a permit to relocate a small shed on the same property. Nearly every city requires one or more permits for relocating a shed to a different property.

If transporting the shed through multiple cities or states, you'll need permits for each state and may also need local permits for various towns along the route. Many sheds are considered oversized loads, which come with specific permit requirements.

In addition to transportation permits, you may also need a permit to install the shed in the new location, especially if you’re placing the shed on a new foundation.

Can you move a shed without taking it apart?

Yes, you can move a shed without dismantling it. The shed moving company will jack up the shed, set it on skids, and use a forklift or crane to load it onto a flatbed truck or trailer for transport. However, moving a shed safely without damaging it requires proper planning and precautions.

How hard is it to move a shed?

Moving a shed can range from relatively easy to quite difficult, depending on the shed size, weight, construction, accessibility, and the distance of the move.

• Moving a small, lightweight shed across level ground to a new spot on the same property can typically be handled by a few people by sliding the shed onto skids or rollers.

• Moving a large shed typically requires professional equipment like a crane or forklift, and transporting the shed to a new property requires a trailer or flatbed truck, increasing the difficulty.

• Moves that involve longer distances or require tight maneuvering are the most difficult.

Is it cheaper to move or demolish a shed?

Generally, shed removal and disposal costs less than moving a shed to a new location. Demolition is faster and easier and can usually be done with basic tools and a dumpster.

Getting estimates from shed movers

Follow these tips to help you choose the best shed moving company near you to handle your move.

• Compare quotes from at least 3 companies that specialize in moving large structures.

• Read reviews for building movers on HomeGuide and Google.

• Choose a licensed, insured company that has been in business for 5+ years.

• Ask for references from previous customers.

• Get a detailed written estimate that lists all the costs involved.

Questions to ask shed moving companies

Ask these important questions to ensure you hire the right movers for the job:

• How long have you been in business?

• How many sheds and other outbuildings have you moved in the past year?

• Is my shed a good candidate for moving?

• Does the estimate include all the required permits?

• What other expenses might come up during the project?

• What challenges do you foresee for this move?

• How do you handle any damage that happens during the move?