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How to Prepare Your Yard for Shed Movers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Moving a shed is no small task. Whether you’re relocating it to a new property or simply moving it to a different spot in your yard, proper preparation is essential. Doing so can prevent delays, minimize damage to your property and shed, and save you time. In this guide, we’ll cover practical steps to prepare your yard before shed carriers arrive.

According to Bob Villa, the cost of hiring shed movers ranges between $200 and $1,000, depending on factors like size, distance, and whether specialized equipment is needed.​ 

With such costs involved, proper preparation is vital to ensure the process goes smoothly.

1. Clear Obstacles from the Path

The first step in preparing your yard is clearing any obstacles from the shed’s path. This ensures that the carriers can safely and efficiently relocate your shed.

Common obstacles to remove include:

  • Garden tools and furniture: Relocate lawn chairs, tables, and gardening equipment.
  • Debris: Remove fallen branches, leaves, or any yard waste.
  • Plants and shrubs: Trim or relocate any nearby plants that might get in the way.
  • Children’s toys and playsets: Ensure there are no obstructions from toys, playhouses, or swing sets.

A clear path allows the carriers to maneuver the shed without delays. According to Landmark Tools, failing to properly clear obstacles can significantly prolong the shed relocation process​.

2. Check for Overhead Clearance

In addition to clearing the ground, overhead clearance is just as important. Low-hanging branches, power lines, or roof overhangs can become problematic for the shed movers if not addressed.

Key areas to check:

  • Tree branches: Trim any that may interfere with the shed’s movement.
  • Power lines: Ensure the shed can pass safely. If adjustments are required, contact your utility company.
  • Roof overhangs or gutters: Make sure your home’s roofline won’t block the shed’s path.

Some sheds, especially larger ones, might require a shed mule, crane, or other specialized equipment. In such cases, clearing the overhead space becomes crucial.

3. Mark Utility Lines

If your shed will be moved across an area with underground utilities, it’s essential to mark these lines to prevent damage. Heavy equipment could disrupt gas, water, or electrical lines, leading to costly repairs.

How to mark utility lines:

  • Contact local utility services: In the U.S., dialing 811 connects you to local services that can mark underground utilities for free.
  • Use visible markers: Once marked, use flags or spray paint to indicate the location of the lines.

According to the Common Ground Alliance’s Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT) 2019 Report, the U.S. saw over 532,000 utility damages that year, with estimated costs exceeding $30 billion, including repairs, property damage, and other associated costs​. The primary cause of damages to underground lines was the failure to call 811 to have utility lines properly marked before digging, which highlights the importance of marking utility lines before any major relocation projects like shed moving.

4. Level the Ground

shed movers make it easy

If you’re relocating the shed to a different area in your yard, make sure the ground is level at the new location. A solid, level foundation is essential to maintaining the shed’s structural integrity.

Steps to level the ground:

  1. Clear the area: Remove grass, rocks, and any debris from the site.
  2. Fill in low spots: Use dirt or gravel to create a level surface.
  3. Check the level: Verify the ground is flat using a leveling tool. If necessary, compact the ground with sand or gravel to stabilize the base.

According to Site Preparation LLC, leveling the ground is essential to avoid future structural problems, such as uneven doors or windows and sagging floors​.

5. Reinforce the Shed (If Necessary)

Older sheds may need reinforcement before being moved to ensure they stay intact. Moving a shed can stress weak or damaged areas, so it’s important to inspect it beforehand.

Key areas to inspect:

  • Doors and windows: Secure any loose components to prevent them from swinging open during the move.
  • Walls and flooring: Check for signs of rot or structural damage.
  • Roof: Ensure the roof is secure and won’t shift during transport.

Reinforcing the shed’s structure before a move can prevent costly repairs during the relocation process​.

6. Plan for Access to the Shed

Ensure that the shed movers have clear access to the shed. This involves planning the entry and exit points they’ll use to relocate the shed to the transport vehicle.

Consider the following:

  • Gate width: If your yard is fenced, ensure that the gate is wide enough for both the shed and equipment to pass through.
  • Driveway space: Make sure the carriers have enough room to park their truck and any other necessary equipment.
  • Sloped or uneven terrain: Discuss this with the carriers beforehand so they can bring the proper equipment.

Clear access prevents unexpected delays and the need to remove parts of your fence or gate at the last minute.

7. Communicate with the Shed Movers

Finally, communication with the shed carriers is key. Ensure they are fully informed about any potential challenges, such as narrow paths or difficult terrain, so they can bring the right tools and equipment for the job.

Important details to share:

  • Shed dimensions and weight: Provide the exact size and weight of the shed.
  • Terrain conditions: Inform the carriers about slopes or uneven ground.
  • Special instructions: If the shed has fragile components, make sure to notify them in advance.

Professional shed carriers, such as those listed on uShip, appreciate detailed communication, as it allows them to prepare properly for the move.

Conclusion

Proper preparation is essential when relocating a shed. By clearing obstacles, marking utility lines, leveling the ground, reinforcing the shed, and communicating with your carriers, you can ensure a smooth and safe move. Following these steps not only prevents delays but also reduces the risk of damage to your shed and property.

Summary: Key Steps to Prepare for Shed Movers

  • Clear obstacles from the path to ensure easy access.
  • Check overhead clearance like tree branches and power lines.
  • Mark underground utility lines to prevent damage.
  • Level the ground for the new shed location.
  • Reinforce the shed if it’s old or has structural damage.
  • Plan access points for the shed and equipment.
  • Communicate with the shed carriers to discuss any specific challenges.

By following these steps, you can make the shed moving process efficient and hassle-free.