How to Move a Hot Tub – Latest 2025 Relocation Guide

How to move a hot tub is something many homeowners worry about, and it’s easy to see why. These tubs are heavy, delicate, and tricky to navigate through tight spaces, making a careless move expensive, complicated, or prone to damage.

At Professional Movers, we bring over seven years of experience and have completed more than 20,000 moves, giving us a clear understanding of what it takes to relocate a hot tub safely and efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, including how to prepare your tub, the tools required, essential safety tips, and realistic cost estimates. Whether you’re attempting a DIY move or hiring movers, these insights will help you relocate your hot tub in 2025 confidently and securely.

Let’s dive in and get started.

Pre-Move Planning – How To Prepare for Hot Tub Move

Moving a hot tub isn’t just about muscle, it starts with careful planning to ensure the process goes smoothly from start to finish. Below are essential steps you should follow to prepare for moving a hot tub:

👉 Measure every inch: Record height, width, and depth. Don’t forget doorways, gates, and turns.

👉 Check clearance space: Allow extra room for dollies, straps, and your team.

👉 Spot tricky areas: Watch for slopes, uneven ground, and tight staircases.

👉 Assess the base: Ensure the deck or ground is stable enough for lifting.

👉 Document condition: Take photos of scratches, cracks, or wear.

👉 Plan for obstacles: Check overhead wires, low ceilings, or landscaping.

👉 Disconnect water & power: Drain the tub and turn off electricity to prevent accidents.

👉 Check weather conditions: Rain, snow, or extreme heat can affect safety and equipment use.

Decide on DIY vs Hot Tub Movers

Choosing between a DIY move and hiring hot tub movers is a big decision. The right choice can make your move much easier, while the wrong one can turn into a headache. To help you out, we’ve put together a simple table that compares both options side by side.

💡 Not sure which way to go? Let our experts guide you with a free moving quote.

Gather Essential Tools to Move Hot Tub

Having the right tools makes all the difference when moving something as bulky as a hot tub. Skipping even one piece of equipment can slow you down or cause damage. Here’s what you’ll need for relocating a hot tub:

Core tools:

• Moving dolly: Heavy-duty models with wide bases work best for tubs.
• Lifting straps: Distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your back.
• Furniture sliders & ramps: Glide the tub across floors or load it onto a trailer.
• Protective blankets, shrink wrap & ropes: Keep the tub scratch-free and secure.
• Safety gear: Gloves, steel-toe shoes, and eye protection are essential.

Additional Items for Outdoor Moves:

• Plywood sheets: Create a stable path across grass, gravel, or uneven ground.
• Spa sleds: Specialized sliders for moving tubs safely over outdoor surfaces.
• Wheel chocks: Keep trailers or vehicles steady while loading/unloading.
• Clear the path: Remove rocks, branches, or debris before moving.
• Path clearing tools: Rake, gloves, shovel, wheelbarrow or bucket, broom or brush.

How to Move a Hot Tub: Tips from Hot Tub Movers

Now that everything is ready, follow these steps carefully to move your hot tub safely and smoothly.

Step 1 – Drain Hot Tub Before Moving

• Turn off the power and unplug.
• Drain water fully using a garden hose or submersible pump.
• Wipe and dry all surfaces, including corners, panels, and behind jets, to prevent mould and reduce weight.

Pro Tip: Check the tub’s drain plug and filter compartment to make sure no water is left behind.

Step 2 – Safely Disconnect Plumbing and Electrical

• Remove jets, pumps, covers, and other detachable parts.
• Handle all electrical components with gloves and avoid any water contact.
• Place small parts, screws, and fittings in a labelled toolbox to prevent loss.

Pro Tip: Take photos of the plumbing and electrical layout before disconnecting, as it helps during reassembly.

Step 3 – Wrap and Protect Your Hot Tub

• Wrap the tub in heavy-duty moving blankets.
• Use shrink wrap, ropes, and straps to secure the tub and any loose components.
• Pad edges, controls, and sensitive panels to avoid scratches or cracks.

Pro Tip: Secure any loose parts inside the tub, like filters, pump covers, or headrests, so nothing shifts during transit.

Step 4 – Lift and Move Hot Tub

• Use a heavy-duty moving dolly and lifting straps to evenly distribute the tub’s weight.
• Place furniture sliders or plywood sheets under the tub to move smoothly over uneven ground.
• Ensure 4–6 people work together, lifting in sync and communicating clearly.
• Keep the tub upright at all times, tilting can damage internal components.

Pro Tip: Always plan your route in advance and clear any obstacles or low-hanging objects before lifting.

Step 5 – How to Transport Hot Tub Safely

• Choose a suitable vehicle: pickup truck, trailer, or flatbed.
• Secure the tub using straps, ropes, and wheel chocks to prevent shifting during transit.
• Drive slowly, avoid sudden stops or sharp turns, and watch for bumps.
• Keep safety gear on during loading and unloading.

Pro Tip: Check strap tension periodically if the journey is long; straps can loosen during transport.

Step 6 – Set Up Your Hot Tub at Its New Spot

• Place the tub on a level, stable, and reinforced surface capable of supporting the full weight when filled.
• Reconnect plumbing and electrical, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Fill, test, and balance water before first use.
• Inspect the tub for scratches, cracks, or stress from the move.

Pro Tip: Recheck the level after filling water, as the weight can slightly shift the tub, affecting pump function.

💡 Discuss hot tub moving tips with us in detail for free, because we don’t charge for estimates!

How to Relocate a Hot Tub on Grass and Uneven Ground

Moving a hot tub across grass or uneven ground can be tricky, but these essential tips will make the process much easier.

Step 1 – Clear the Path
Use a rake, gloves, shovel, wheelbarrow, and broom to remove rocks, branches, or debris from the route.

Step 2 – Use Proper Equipment
Set up heavy-duty furniture dollies and spa sleds. Lay plywood sheets to create a stable path over soft or uneven ground.

Step 3 – Protect the Tub
Wrap it with moving blankets or shrink wrap to prevent scratches and protect it from outdoor elements.

Step 4 – Teamwork
Have 4–6 strong people lift and maneuver the tub carefully, keeping it upright at all times.

Step 5 – Transport Safely
Use a pickup truck or trailer and secure the tub with straps to prevent shifting during transit.

Safety Tips for Hot Tub Relocation

With years of experience in hot tub relocation, we understand that safety is paramount. The following guidelines will help protect you, your team, and your property during the move.

✅ Gear up properly: Always wear gloves, supportive footwear, and a back brace if needed. It may feel like overkill, but it helps prevent injuries.

✅ Bring a team: A hot tub isn’t something you can safely move alone. Having experienced helpers makes lifting and maneuvering much easier and safer.

✅ Protect your space: Floors, decks, and walls can get damaged fast. Use moving blankets, sliders, or boards to keep everything in top shape.

✅ Take your time: Fatigue leads to mistakes. Short, planned breaks keep your team sharp and prevent accidents.

💡Moving a hot tub can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can go smoothly and safely.

Cost Factors for Moving a Hot Tub in 2025

Up next, let’s talk about what affects the cost and how much it typically costs to move hot tubs of different sizes:

Cost to Move a Hot Tub: DIY vs. Movers

💡 Want an accurate estimate for your hot tub move? Contact us today for a free quote tailored according to your hot tub, jacuzzi or spa.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Moving Hot Tub

 DIY Moves:

• Longer distance = more effort, truck rental, and fuel.
• Large or heavy tubs are harder to handle.
• Stairs, narrow doors, and uneven terrain add difficulty.
• Extra equipment (dollies, straps, ramps) may be needed.
• More helpers are required for heavy tubs.
• Disassembly and reassembly take extra time.

Movers:

• Distance affects time and planning.
• Any size tub, including a Jacuzzi, can be handled safely.
• Navigate stairs, narrow doors, and tricky layouts.
• All equipment and protective gear included.
• A right-sized team ensures efficient moving.
• Disassembly and reassembly are often included.

When to Hire Professional Hot Tub Movers

Not every hot tub move calls for a professional crew, but in many cases, it’s the smartest choice. Here’s when bringing in experienced movers makes the most sense:

• Large, heavy, or built-in spas: Inflatable tubs can often be managed with friends, but moving jacuzzi or acrylic-style spa weighing over 1,000 lbs is another story. Professionals have the right equipment and team to handle the weight safely.
• Moves involving stairs, gates, or narrow pathways: Tight turns, steep steps, and awkward access points make hot tub relocation risky. Movers know how to navigate these challenges without damaging your property or the spa.
• Ensuring safety and preventing expensive damage: A cracked shell, broken jet, or damaged deck can cost far more than hiring movers in the first place. With insured experts, you protect both your hot tub and your home.
• Winter moves: Cold weather, ice, or snow make moving a hot tub more difficult and hazardous. Professionals have the experience and tools to handle winter conditions safely.

📞 If your move sounds like one of these situations, it’s a good time to reach out to our professional hot tub movers.

Final Word on Moving Your Hot Tub

Moving a hot tub is not something to take lightly. Proper planning, safety precautions, and careful preparation are key to carrying out a smooth relocation. For smaller, lighter tubs, DIY is an option, but only if you have enough hands, experience, and the right equipment. For large, heavy, or built-in spas, or when navigating stairs and tight spaces, hiring insured and licensed hot tub movers is the safest choice to protect both your spa and property.

Following the step-by-step guidance above can help ensure your hot tub relocation 2025 is efficient, safe, and damage-free. Whether you decide to move it yourself or rely on experts, taking these precautions will help you move your spa safely and enjoy it in your new space without worry.

Frequently Asked Questions for Moving a Hot Tub

Q: What are the hot tub transport requirements?

A: You need a flat, stable surface on your truck or trailer, proper lifting equipment like dollies and straps, and enough people to handle the weight safely. Protecting the tub with blankets or padding is also essential.

Q: What is the cost to move a hot tub?

A: For movers, costs depend on the tub’s size, weight, distance, and accessibility. Small to medium tubs typically range from $300–$600, while large or oversized spas can cost $750–$1,000 or more. Movers handle everything safely, including stairs, tight spaces, and setup.

Q: How do I move a hot tub?

A: Yes, you can if it’s small and lightweight and you have enough helpers and the right tools. For large spas, stairs, or tight spaces, hiring professionals is much safer.

Q: Do I need a permit to move a hot tub?

A: Usually not for private property moves, but if you’re transporting it on public roads with an oversized load, local regulations may require a permit.

Q: What are some essential tools to move a hot tub?

A: Dollies, lifting straps, moving blankets, ramps, and sometimes a hoist for large tubs. The right tools make the move safer and easier.

Q: How long does it take to move a hot tub?

A: Smaller tubs may take 1–2 hours. Large or complex moves with stairs and tight access points can take 3–5 hours or more.

Q: What equipment do I need for a DIY hot tub move?

A: You’ll need a sturdy dolly, moving straps, ramps, blankets for protection, and enough strong helpers to lift and guide the tub safely.

Q: Will moving a hot tub void its warranty?

A: If you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, moving it carefully shouldn’t void the warranty. Improper handling, damage, or DIY mistakes, however, can affect coverage.

Q: How to safely move a hot tub on grass and uneven ground?

A: Clear the path of obstacles and level small bumps if possible. Use plywood or sliders to distribute weight and keep the tub upright at all times. Wrap and protect it, securing loose parts inside. For tricky or uneven ground, hiring professional hot tub movers ensures the spa and property stay safe.