How to Move a Hot Tub 🛁

How to Move a Hot Tub

Hot tubs are the ultimate relaxation machines, but when it’s time to relocate, they present one of the toughest challenges in the moving world.

Their size, weight, and delicate components make moving a hot tub a job that requires specific expertise and equipment.

While Packhorse Moving excels at handling many heavy and complex items, hot tubs fall into a specialized category that we recommend leaving to the experts.

Here’s what you need to know about safely moving a hot tub.

---

The Complexity of Moving a Hot Tub

Hot tubs are not just heavy — they’re awkwardly shaped and full of fragile parts that can easily be damaged if mishandled.

• Size and Weight: Even small hot tubs can weigh several hundred pounds, while larger ones can exceed 1,000 pounds.

  
  

• Delicate Components: Pumps, heaters, jets, and electrical systems must be handled with care to avoid damage during transport.

  
  

• Awkward Shape: Hot tubs are bulky and hard to maneuver through narrow spaces, requiring special strategies to navigate tight turns or uneven terrain.

---

Specialized Equipment Is Essential

Unlike standard household items, hot tubs require unique tools and equipment to move safely.

• Dollies and Sliders: Heavy-duty dollies and sliders designed for large items are needed to lift and roll the hot tub.

  
  

• Cranes or Hoists: In some cases, cranes or hoists are required to lift the hot tub over fences, decks, or other obstacles.

  
  

• Custom Padding and Straps: To prevent damage, the hot tub must be carefully wrapped and secured during the move.

  
  

Attempting to move a hot tub without this equipment can result in injury or irreparable damage to the tub.

---

Steps Involved in Moving a Hot Tub

Here’s an overview of the process a specialist follows to safely move a hot tub:

1. Drain the Hot Tub: The first step is draining all water and ensuring the tub is completely dry. Any leftover moisture can make the tub heavier and harder to handle.

   
   

2. Disconnect Power and Plumbing: All electrical and plumbing connections must be safely disconnected and capped off.

   
   

3. Prepare the Area: Specialists assess the space around the hot tub, removing obstacles and creating a clear path for transport.

   
   

4. Lift and Maneuver: Using dollies, sliders, and sometimes cranes, the hot tub is carefully lifted and transported to the moving vehicle.

   
   

5. Secure During Transport: The hot tub is strapped securely in the moving truck to prevent shifting or damage during transit.

---

Why Packhorse Moving Doesn’t Move Hot Tubs

At Packhorse Moving, we specialize in a wide range of moving services, but hot tubs require highly specialized equipment and expertise to ensure safe handling.

To protect your hot tub, and your property, we recommend working with a dedicated hot tub moving service.

---

What You Should Do Instead

If you need to move a hot tub, here’s how to get it done:

1. Hire a Hot Tub Specialist: Look for professionals with experience in disassembling, transporting, and reassembling hot tubs.

   
   

2. Plan Ahead: Moving a hot tub often requires extra time and coordination. Make sure to build this into your moving schedule.

   
   

3. Coordinate with Your Movers: Inform your moving company that a hot tub specialist will handle this part of the move. This ensures everyone is on the same page.

   
   

---

Moving a hot tub is not a DIY job.

It requires skill, experience, and the right tools to ensure it arrives at its destination without damage.

While Packhorse Moving focuses on providing exceptional service for the rest of your move, we recommend leaving your hot tub to the specialists who can handle its unique challenges with ease.

Stay tuned for more expert advice in our "How to Move..." series!