How to Move a Hot Tub: Solutions, Stress-Free, Damage-Free Shift

Moving a hot tub from your driveway to the backyard can feel overwhelming. I get it, it’s heavy and awkward! It’s likely that you’re thinking about how to move it through the gate or whether a dolly will be sufficient.

Understanding the Task

Hot tubs tend to weigh around 800-1,000 pounds when empty, making them difficult to move around. The task involves moving this weight a short distance, probably on flat or slightly uneven ground, through a gate, and into your backyard.

It’s clear that you’re considering a DIY approach with rented equipment, but you’re also weighing the option of hiring movers.

Safety Tips and Common Problems

• Safety First: Don’t lift the hot tub manually; let the dollies do the work. Wear sturdy shoes and gloves to prevent slips or cuts. Avoid standing under the hot tub when tipped.
• Common Issues: If the gate is too narrow, consider removing a fence section temporarily. For uneven backyard terrain, lay plywood for stability.
• Risks: Without proper equipment, you risk injury or damage. Ensure the dolly’s weight capacity (e.g., 800 lbs for Home Depot’s appliance dolly) matches your hot tub’s weight.

Cost and Equipment Rental

• Dolly Rental Costs: Home Depot charges around $30/day for dollies, according to Reddit discussions, though prices vary by location. Compare with U-Haul, which may offer dollies for $7/day with truck rental.
• Total DIY Cost: Expect $50-$100 for equipment rental, plus potential costs for helpers if you pay them. This is lower than hiring movers, but requires more effort.

Hiring Professional Movers: An Alternative

If DIY feels overwhelming, hiring movers is a viable option, especially for complex moves. Here’s what to know:

• Cost Range: Local moves cost $150-$400, while cross-town moves can be $300-$1,000. Factors like stairs or narrow paths may add $100-$130 extra.
• Benefits: Professionals bring expertise, specialized equipment like cranes if needed, and insurance. They handle draining, disconnecting, and reconnecting, reducing your workload.
• How to Choose: Look for companies with hot tub moving experience.

DIY vs. Hiring: A Comparison

Local Trust and Resources

An interesting point is the availability of local resources. Home Depot’s rental options vary by store, so call your nearest location to confirm dolly availability. Also, consider community forums like Reddit for tips on borrowing equipment or finding affordable help, though ensure safety standards are met.

Disconnecting the Tub

Disconnecting it from its current location is necessary. Here’s what you should do:

• 1. Turn off the power at the breaker box.
• 2. Unscrew the cap on the drain valve and open it to drain the water from the tub.
• 3. Once the water is drained, disconnect the hoses from the inlet and outlet valves.
• 4. Move a dolly or other lifting device to its new location. Be sure to mind any steps or other obstacles in your path!
• 5. Reconnect the hoses to the inlet and outlet valves, screwing on the caps tightly.
• 6. Turn on the power at the breaker box and fill your tub with fresh water.

How to Move a Hot Tub Across Your Yard (Video)

Draining the Tub: How to Do It Properly

1. Turn off the power: Before starting the draining process, ensure the hot tub’s power is turned off. This step is crucial for safety purposes.
2. Locate the drain plug: Identify the drain plug, usually located near the bottom of the tub. It may be a small valve or a cap that needs to be removed.
3. Open the drain plug: Carefully open the drain plug to initiate the water drainage. Depending on your hot tub model, you may need a wrench or pliers to loosen the plug.
4. Let the water drain: Allow the water to flow out ultimately. Depending on the size of your hot tub, this process may take some time. Be patient and let gravity do its job.
5. Close the drain plug: Securely close the drain plug once the water has completely drained out. Ensure it is adequately tightened to prevent water leakage during the moving process.
6. Remove any attached hoses: If a hose is connected to the drain plug, disconnect it and ensure it is completely drained. Store the hose separately for safekeeping.
7. Move the hot tub: Now that it has drained, you can move it to its new location. Follow the steps mentioned earlier in this conversation depending on your specific moving situation.
8. Refill the hot tub: After it has been safely relocated, you can begin refilling it with fresh water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the water level and any specific guidelines for your particular model.
9. Wait before using: It’s essential to wait approximately 24 hours after refilling the hot tub before using it again. This allows the water to stabilize and reach the desired temperature, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience.

For more about: Soak in style with a two-person portable hot tub.

Moving a Hot Tub: The Best Way to Do It

Transporting a hot tub can be difficult, but it can be done safely and efficiently by following these steps:

1. Drain the tub: Begin by draining all the water from the hot tub. Disconnect all hoses and electrical cords, ensuring everything is properly disconnected before proceeding.
2. Get assistance: Moving a hot tub is a team effort. Enlist the help of at least two people to lift the tub. Hot tubs can be extremely heavy, so having additional hands is crucial to avoid injury.
3. Use a dolly or moving apparatus: Lift the tub onto a sturdy dolly or another moving apparatus. Ensure the doll is secure and stable before moving the tub.
4. Wheel it to the new location: Carefully wheel the hot tub to its new location, taking caution to avoid bumping it into any obstacles. Move slowly and steadily to prevent damage to the tub or surrounding areas.

Moving a Hot Tub with PVC Pipe:

If you need to move your hot tub onto a truck or trailer, using PVC pipe can make the process easier:

1. Create a ramp: Lay PVC pipes on the ground leading up to the truck or trailer. Ensure the pipes are long enough and positioned at a steep enough angle to safely roll the hot tub up and down without tipping over.
2. Secure the pipes: Use sandbags or other heavy objects to secure the pipes to the ground, preventing movement.
3. Move the hot tub: Secure the hot tub to the pipes using chains or ropes. Slowly roll the tub up the PVC pipe until it reaches the truck or trailer. If unsure about the tub’s pressure tolerance, fill it with a few inches of water before moving.

Moving a Hot Tub on Grass:

When moving the hot tub on grass, follow these tips for a smooth process:

1. Find a firm, level surface: Locate a stable and level area on the grass where you can place the hot tub. This ensures that it won’t tip over during the moving process.
2. Use a dolly or similar device: Employ a doll or suitable moving equipment to transport the hot tub onto the new surface. Make sure to secure it in place before attempting to move it.
3. Fill it with water: Once the hot tub is in its new position, fill it with water and enjoy! A hot tub provides relaxation and health benefits, making it a worthwhile investment.

Moving a Hot Tub on a Trailer:

When transporting a hot tub on a trailer, take the following precautions:

1. Drain and dry it completely: Ensure that the hot tub is fully drained and dried to prevent any water from sloshing around during transport. This helps avoid damage and maintains the stability of the tub.
2. Secure it to the trailer: Use sturdy straps or ropes to securely fasten the hot tub to the trailer. This prevents it from shifting or moving during transportation.
3. Cover it with a protective tarp: Shield the hot tub with a tarp or other covering to keep it clean and dry during the move. This helps protect it from any external elements.

Check out How to Move a Hot Tub Safely and Efficiently.

Common Problems and Solutions

Moving a hot tub can present several challenges, from navigating tight spaces to handling uneven ground or managing its heavy weight. Below are practical solutions to the most common problems you might encounter, designed to make your move smoother and safer.

1. Gate Too Narrow?

If the gate to your backyard is too narrow for the hot tub to pass through, here are some effective fixes:

• Tilt the Hot Tub: Carefully tilt the hot tub onto its side to reduce its width. Use blankets or padding to protect the edges, and make sure 4-6 helpers are on hand to support the tilt—especially the heavier side where the motor is typically located. This works for most standard gates.
• Disassemble the Gate: If tilting isn’t an option, temporarily remove the gate or a section of the fence. This straightforward solution is often overlooked but can save significant hassle. Keep tools ready to reassemble afterward.
• Find an Alternative Entry Point: Look for a wider access route, like a side yard or driveway, to bypass the narrow gate entirely. This can eliminate the need for tilting or disassembly.

Tip: Measure both the hot tub and the gate ahead of time. If the tub is more than a few inches wider than the gate, plan for disassembly or an alternate path.

2. Uneven Backyard Terrain?

Uneven or soft ground can make moving a hot tub tricky, but these solutions can help:

• Lay Plywood Sheets: Place plywood along the path to create a flat, stable surface for the dollies. This prevents sinking or tipping and protects your yard from damage.
• Use Gravel for Stability: For extra-soft ground (like after rain), spread gravel or small stones to firm up the path. This adds traction and keeps the dollies rolling smoothly.
• Level the Final Spot: Once the hot tub is in place, ensure it’s on a level base. Check with a spirit level and adjust with shims or a concrete pad if needed—uneven placement can lead to mechanical problems.

Tip: For sloped areas, build a temporary ramp with plywood and 2x4s to ease the hot tub’s movement and maintain control.

Hot Tub Too Heavy?

Hot tubs can weigh 800-1,000 lbs even when empty, so managing the load is key:

• Add More Helpers: Recruit at least 4-6 strong helpers to share the weight. If it still feels too heavy, bring in more people—prioritizing safety over speed.
• Rent a Second Dolly: Use two appliance dollies—one at each end—to distribute the weight evenly. Check that each dolly’s capacity (e.g., 800 lbs for a standard model) can handle at least half the tub’s weight. This makes the move more manageable.
• Consider Mechanical Help: For especially heavy tubs, rent a hand truck or pallet jack to reduce strain on your team and lower the risk of injury.

Tip: Confirm the dolly’s weight limit before renting. Overloading can cause it to fail, risking damage to the tub or injury to your crew.

Expert Tips:

Moving a hot tub involves more than just muscle and dollies—small details can make a big difference in safety, success, and peace of mind. Here are three expert tips that go beyond the basics, filling gaps competitors often skip.

A. Use a Laser Level to Check the New Spot

• Why It Matters: A hot tub needs a perfectly level base to work right and last long. An uneven spot stresses the frame, cracks the shell, or messes up the plumbing.
• How to Do It: Grab a laser level from a hardware store—simple models cost $20-$50. Set it up at the new backyard location before moving the tub. Check for any tilt, even a slight one. If the ground slopes, add a concrete pad or shims to fix it.
• Payoff: Prevents costly repairs down the road. Manufacturers like Jacuzzi stress leveling for warranty coverage.

Tip: Test the level after placing the tub too—shifting can throw it off.

B. Document the Move with Photos

• Why It Matters: Pictures prove the hot tub’s condition before and after the move. Damage happens—cracks, scratches, dents—and photos back up insurance claims or disputes with movers.
• How to Do It: Snap clear shots of all sides before you start. Take more during the move, especially if tilting it or squeezing through a gate. Finish with photos at the new spot. Use your phone—time-stamped pics work best.
• Payoff: Saves headaches if something goes wrong. Home insurance pros recommend this for big items.

Tip: Keep the photos in a folder on your phone or cloud drive, ready if you need them.

C. Check Local Permits if Crossing Property Lines

• Why It Matters: Moving a hot tub across streets or shared land might need a permit. Cities like Austin or HOA neighborhoods enforce rules to avoid fines or delays.
• How to Do It: Call your local city office or check their website—look under “moving permits” or “heavy equipment.” Ask about rules for crossing property lines or blocking sidewalks, even for a short move. It’s quick—takes 10 minutes—and fees are usually low, like $20-$50.
• Payoff: Keeps you legal and shows you’re thorough. Neighbors appreciate the heads-up too.

Tip: If renting a trailer for a longer move, double-check vehicle permit rules with your DMV.

SOME FINAL TIPS

Remember to drain your hot tub entirely and secure all loose parts when moving it to its final destination. This ensures the tub’s safety and prevents damage during transport. Once at the new location, take the time to level it before refilling.

For additional information, visit Hot Tub Patio. If you’re interested in reading reviews and guides for hot tubs, visit Hot Tub Guides.