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Originally Posted On: https://smartshed.net/how-to-prepare-your-portable-storage-shed-for-transport/
How To Prepare Your Portable Storage Shed for Transport
Whether you’re looking for extra storage space or a functional outdoor building, portable sheds are the best choice. They’ve become popular due to their flexibility and ease of relocation. What exactly does “portable” mean when it comes to storage sheds, and how do you prepare a shed for transport?
In this blog post, Smart Shed explores the definition of portable sheds, the benefits they offer, and, most importantly, how to properly prepare your shed for transport.
What Does “Portable” Mean in the Storage Shed Industry?
In the storage shed industry, “portable” refers to sheds designed with mobility in mind. Unlike permanent structures, portable sheds can be moved from one location to another with relative ease. They’re constructed using methods that allow for safe transport without compromising the structural integrity of the shed.
You might think of portable sheds as small structures, but they come in various sizes and styles, including cabins, barns, and pergolas. They’re typically built on a skid foundation or another type of base that allows them to be lifted and transported by specialized equipment, such as a trailer or a truck with a hydraulic lift.
How To Properly Prepare a Portable Storage Shed for Transport
Preparing your portable storage shed for transport requires proper planning and execution to ensure it arrives safely at the new location.
We recommend that you follow this step-by-step shed transport guide:
Clear Out the Interior
Before moving your shed, you’ll need to completely empty it of all its contents. This will prevent items from shifting during transport, which could damage both the shed and your belongings.
Make sure to:
- Remove all storage items, tools, or equipment.
- Disassemble any shelving or fixtures that aren’t securely attached.
- Inspect the interior for any loose items or parts that could cause damage during transit.
Assess the Shed’s Condition
Before you transport the shed, it’s important to check its structural integrity to ensure it can handle the move.
Here are a few things to look for:
- Inspect the foundation: Check for any damage to the shed’s skids or base. Cracks or rot could compromise its ability to be moved safely.
- Look for structural weaknesses: Ensure the walls, roof, and flooring are intact, with no signs of rot, warping, or cracks. If you find any issues, they should be repaired before moving the shed.
- Examine fasteners and connections: Make sure all bolts, screws, and connections are secure.
Secure Loose Parts
Many portable sheds come with accessories like windows, doors, and shutters that could potentially come loose during transport. To avoid damage, lock all doors and windows and secure them with tape or other fastening methods to prevent them from swinging open.
We recommend that you also remove or secure any detachable parts, such as ramps or steps, to ensure they don’t come off in transit.
Prepare the Site for Removal
Before the shed can be transported, the area around the shed should be clear of obstacles. This makes it easier for the equipment to access the shed for loading. Clear the area around the shed of debris, plants, or any other obstructions.
Arrange for Professional Transport
Transporting a portable shed requires specialized equipment and expertise. While smaller sheds may be moved short distances using a trailer or flatbed truck, larger sheds—like lofted-barn garage sheds or cabin-style sheds—will need professional movers with the right tools, such as hydraulic lifts and trailers designed for moving heavy structures.
What the Transport Process Looks Like for Portable Storage Sheds
The actual transport process for portable storage sheds can vary depending on the size and type of shed.
Expect these steps during the transport process:
Lifting the Shed
To transport your portable shed, it first needs to be lifted onto a trailer. Smaller sheds, such as utility sheds, can sometimes be lifted manually using specialized jacks. Larger sheds, like side-lofted barns and cabin-style sheds, may require a forklift or a truck equipped with a hydraulic lift to raise the shed.
Securing the Shed on the Trailer
Once professionals have lifted your shed, it needs to be properly secured to the trailer for transport. Movers will use heavy-duty straps or chains to hold the shed in place, ensuring that it doesn’t shift during transit.
Transporting the Shed
Once your shed is secured, the transport vehicle will carefully move it to its new location. This can involve driving over rough terrain or long distances, depending on the shed’s destination. Movers are trained to handle these challenges, ensuring the shed arrives safely.
Placing the Shed at the New Location
At the new site, professionals will lift your shed off the trailer and place it in the designated spot. Movers will use the same equipment to gently lower the shed into place, making sure it sits level on the ground. In some cases, minor site preparation may be needed to create a stable foundation for the shed.
Transporting Different Types of Portable Sheds
Let’s take a look at the transport process for some of the most common types of portable storage sheds:
- Side-lofted barns: These sheds are typically larger and have lofted storage space, making them heavier and more complex to move. You might need professional movers for these.
- Utility sheds: These are usually easier to transport and can sometimes be moved using smaller trailers. That said, they still need to be carefully secured to avoid damage during transport.
- Cabin-style sheds: These sheds often have additional design features like windows, doors, and porches, which need to be secured before transport. Their larger size also means professional equipment will be necessary.
- Lofted-barn garage sheds: Due to their size and complexity, you should secure a skilled team and heavy-duty moving equipment for safe transport.
The Importance of Proper Preparation for Shed Transport
Portable storage sheds offer incredible flexibility and versatility, allowing you to adapt to changing needs. With the right preparation, transporting your shed can be a smooth and stress-free process, preserving both the shed’s functionality and value for years to come.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Smart Shed trusted shed builders if you have questions or are in the market for an easy-to-transport shed building. We’re available at (706) 405-4637.
