Ultimate Guide to Moving a Hot Tub: Costs, Equipment & Services

A hot tub can be a fantastic addition to any home, providing relaxation, health benefits, and entertainment. However, when it comes time to move, a hot tub presents unique challenges due to its size, weight, and delicate plumbing and electrical systems. Whether you're relocating a hot tub to a new home, shifting it within your backyard, or selling it to someone else, moving a hot tub requires careful planning, the right equipment, and often, professional help.

In this ultimate guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about hot tub moving, including how to do it safely, what equipment is needed, the benefits of hiring a hot tub moving service, and the estimated costs involved.

Why Moving a Hot Tub Is Challenging

Hot tubs are large and heavy, with most weighing anywhere between 500 and 1,000 pounds when empty. Once filled with water, they can weigh over 6,000 pounds. This makes moving them extremely difficult without proper equipment and expertise.

Some of the biggest challenges include:

• Size & Weight – A hot tub is bulky and requires multiple people to move.
• Delicate Components – The plumbing, jets, and electrical system can be easily damaged.
• Maneuverability Issues – Moving through narrow doorways, stairs, and tight spaces can be tricky.
• Safety Risks – Attempting a DIY move without proper equipment can lead to injuries and property damage.

While it’s possible to move a hot tub yourself, hiring a hot tub moving company is highly recommended for a smooth and stress-free experience.

How to Relocate a Hot Tub Step-by-Step

If you’re considering moving a hot tub yourself, follow these steps carefully to ensure a safe and efficient move.

1. Plan & Measure the Moving Path

Before moving the hot tub, measure all doorways, gates, and paths it will pass through. Identify any obstacles such as steps, narrow corridors, or landscaping features that may make the process difficult.

2. Gather the Necessary Equipment

Having the right hot tub moving equipment makes the job much easier. The essential tools include:

• Hot Tub Moving Dolly – A heavy-duty dolly helps transport the tub on flat surfaces.
• Hot Tub Moving Sled – Useful for sliding the hot tub over uneven terrain.
• Trolley for Moving Hot Tubs – A wheeled platform that helps with lifting and shifting.
• Lifting Straps & Moving Blankets – Provide extra support and protect the hot tub’s surface.

3. Drain the Hot Tub Completely

Water adds thousands of pounds of weight, making it impossible to move a full hot tub. Turn off the power, disconnect the electrical components, and use a pump or hose to drain the water. Wipe down the interior to prevent residual water from leaking during transport.

4. Disconnect Power & Plumbing

Unplug the hot tub and safely disconnect any electrical wiring. If your hot tub is hardwired, consult a professional electrician to avoid damaging the connections. Also, detach any external plumbing or water supply lines.

5. Lift & Secure the Hot Tub

With the help of several strong individuals, carefully tilt the hot tub onto its side. Use moving straps to secure it to the hot tub moving dolly or trolley, ensuring it remains stable. For rough terrain, place it on a hot tub moving sled and slowly slide it to its destination.

6. Load the Hot Tub Onto a Truck

If you are transporting the hot tub to a different location, use a loading ramp or hydraulic lift to place it onto a moving truck. Secure it with additional straps to prevent shifting during transport.

7. Unload & Reinstall

Once at the new location, carefully unload the hot tub and position it in the desired spot. Reconnect the electrical components, refill with water, and test for leaks before use.

Why Hire a Professional Hot Tub Moving Company?

While it’s possible to move a hot tub on your own, hiring a hot tub moving company is often the safest and most efficient option. Here’s why:

1. Expert Knowledge & Experience

Professional movers have the skills and experience needed to handle different types of hot tubs, ensuring a damage-free relocation.

2. Specialized Equipment

A hot tub moving company uses industry-grade equipment like hot tub moving dollies, sleds, and trolleys, making the process smoother and safer.

3. Saves Time & Effort

Moving a hot tub yourself can take hours or even an entire day. Professionals can get the job done quickly and efficiently.

4. Reduces Risk of Injury

Lifting and maneuvering a heavy hot tub can result in serious injuries. A professional team eliminates this risk.

5. Insurance & Liability Coverage

Reputable hot tub moving companies provide insurance coverage, protecting you in case of any accidental damage.

To find the best services in your area, search for a hot tub moving near me or a hot tub moving company near me and compare customer reviews and pricing.

How Much Does It Cost to Relocate a Hot Tub?

The hot tub moving cost depends on several factors, including the distance of the move, the difficulty of the terrain, and additional services such as disassembly and reinstallation.

Factors Affecting the Cost:

• Local vs. Long-Distance Move – Moving a hot tub within the same property is cheaper than transporting it to a new location.
• Access Challenges – Stairs, narrow passages, and difficult terrain increase labor costs.
• Additional Services – Some companies offer extra services like dismantling, storage, and setup.
• Size & Weight of the Hot Tub – Larger and heavier tubs require more labor and specialized equipment.

To get an accurate quote, contact a hot tub moving service in your area and provide details about your move.

Conclusion

Relocating a hot tub requires careful planning, the right equipment, and often, professional help. Whether you’re moving your spa within your backyard or transporting it to a new home, following the proper steps and using hot tub moving equipment like dollies, sleds, and trolleys will make the process easier.

For the safest and most efficient move, consider hiring a hot tub moving company to handle the job. Their expertise, specialized tools, and insurance coverage provide peace of mind, ensuring that your hot tub arrives at its new location safely and securely.

If you're searching for a hot tub moving near me, BC Brothers Moving is here to help. Contact us today for expert assistance!