Moving a Hot Tub

How Do I Move A Hot Tub?

  1. Moving a Hot Tub the Easy Way
  2. Equipment You Will Need
  3. Professional Movers
  4. Moving a Hot Tub DIY
  5. Moving on Your Own
  6. Hiring Movers

1. Moving a Hot Tub the Easy Way

People who are moving from one home to another sometimes have to deal with the trouble of getting their expensive hot tub to the new home. Since there are so many things happening at any given point during the moving process, you may forget that moving a hot tub actually requires a lot of effort. Specialized movers are often required to get the job done right. They have all the tools and skills necessary to get things done safely. Also, it is just easier for them to do it as opposed to you. However, some people find the need to move a hot tub without the help of a trained mover. This is not a very safe option, but it can be done. It requires a lot in order to ensure that everything is done safely. 

2. Equipment You Will Need

Moving a hot tub without the help of movers requires 2 to 3 people and you should never do it alone.  Movers will need to use a spa dolly, several 2x4s or 4x4s, and a flatbed trailer to transport your hot tub. Start by removing the electrical connections, pumps, heater, blower, and plumbing units. Once removed, pack the parts of the hot tub by themselves, then make sure to completely drain the hot tub of all water. 

You will need: 

  • Hot tub dolly
  • Heavy item straps
  • Padding/moving blankets
  • Flatbed truck
Continue reading for more information on how to move a hot tub, as well as more on the materials you need and the procedure that needs to be followed. 

3. Professional Movers

Professional movers tend to be the way to go when moving a large and bulky item like a hot tub. The movers have flatbed trucks that can handle the size and weight of a hot tub. They can also install the tub for you upon arrival in your new home.

Moving a hot tub by crane is often used by spa manufacturers upon delivery. It would be very expensive and unnecessary for movers to use one. A crane is a long extension arm attached to the truck. It's so long that it can sit in the front driveway of a home while it stretches all the way to the backyard. There should be at least a couple of movers waiting to settle the moved tub to the ground if you use this method.

An empty hot tub can weigh anywhere from 300 up to 2,400 lb., depending on the size and model. Each helper should tip the tub up from the corner. The siding of the hot tub with the control unit should face down towards the dolly. Place the 4x4 underneath the tub while turning it onto its sides. Position the side (often times wood or a thick plastic) so that the tub is leaning on that. This should raise it a couple of inches off the ground.

Once the tub is leaning, strap it onto the tub dolly.

You can also use a moving strap apparatus in place of a dolly. Two people must pull the strap on either side of the tub. You also need a smooth surface that enables the tub to slide on its side over the ground to the trailer.

Moving a hot tub has never been simpler! Check out the wonderful Moving Authority Guide provided below. Please feel free to ask questions if you have them. We have done all the research on moving hot tubs so you don't have to!


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4. Moving a Hot Tub DIY

You can also use straps to slide the hot tub onto the dolly. Many professional movers use the long straps with an inflated cushion bag to arrange it on the dolly.

There are a few different types of dollies used to move a hot tub. One of the most reasonably priced is the 4-wheeled utility dollies. These resemble a flatbed wagon with long handles on either side. Utility wagons can connect to a tractor or ATV (all-terrain vehicle). You can usually rent them hourly or by the day but be aware there is usually at least a 2-hour minimum

You will need a flatbed trailer to set the hot tub. You must strap it down and tie it around and underneath the trailer. After the hot tub has rolled out of the trailer, rest the bottom of the tub against the trailer. With 2 or 3 people, tip, push and pull the hot tub onto the trailer. If the hot tub is very old, heavy, or fragile consider hiring a professional to avoid damage.

Home relocation can require a considerable amount of time and effort. Planning ahead is your best bet to make the move more efficient. Whether it's your first time with a big move or you're an old pro at moving house, the whole process can be exhausting. Hiring an expert mover to handle your hot tub moving can take a lot of stress off your back. 

5. Moving on Your Own

Most of the time, moving a jacuzzi is no simple task. You want to first make sure you have the best equipment for the job so you can move the hot tub with ease.  You will need an appliance dolly, 4x4 lumber, tow straps and a few strong and agile people to help you. Make sure you disconnect the filters, heaters, pumps and other electrical units. If these items are not removed or disconnected, the tub might encounter damages as you try to move it. You should drain all the items and pack them by themselves. This ensures that you can all the parts can put into the hot tub when you get to your final destination.  

Make sure the hot tub does not have any remaining water in it! Using a vacuum or towels to get any moisture is key. If the hot tub has water in it and is moving a long distance it could start to mold or rot. 

6. Hiring Movers

Hiring movers to move your hot tub is, of course, the easiest way to go. Movers know what they are doing and already have all the tools needed for hot tub moving. They can also set up the hot tub at your new location for you.

A hot tub is an expensive, large and heavy item. Moving it on your own may prove to be more difficult than you think. Hiring a moving service will ensure that your hot tub will not break in transition. 

Besides moving a piano, the hot tub is regarded as the most difficult thing to move. This is why hiring a moving service is the best way to go.