(Updated January 13, 2025)
Moving a hot tub is no easy feat. As hot tubs are heavy, bulky, and easy to damage if not handled properly, it’s usually best to hire professionals for this job, but it is possible to move a hot tub by yourself with the right preparation and tools.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps on how to move a hot tub by yourself, so you can tackle this challenging task with confidence.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Hot Tub?
If you’ve got your mind set on moving a hot tub by yourself, you’re probably trying to save some cash. After all, hiring professional hot tub movers can cost up to $1,500 depending on hot tub size, distance to your new home, and whether or not you need special equipment to transport the hot tub.
In most cases, moving a hot tub yourself means you’ll need a rental truck, hot tub moving equipment, and help from friends (really good friends) or hired labor (around $50 to $100 for two hours). The average cost of renting a truck is $60 per day and equipment like dollies and ratchet straps will add another $100–200, plus it’s usually good form to buy your friends some dinner for helping.
This is assuming you’re moving the hot tub locally. When moving it farther, you’ll have to account for multiple-day rental fees, gas, meals, moving insurance (optional), and possibly hotel accommodations along the way — just like with any long-distance move.
Keep in mind that if your hot tub gets damaged during the move, replacing it may cost you anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on tub type, materials, and features. Also, if you or one of your helpers gets injured during the move, medical bills could cost thousands of dollars, not to mention the lost time from work and the physical pain and suffering that can follow.
How to Prepare for Moving a Hot Tub
The first step to moving a hot tub is getting it ready for the move:
1. Gather your hot tub moving equipment
Before moving your hot tub, gather the following:
Two (2) four-wheeled furniture dollies for pushing across flat surfaces
Measuring tape
Garden hose
Towels
Lifting straps
Two (2) pieces of 4x4 lumber (pressure-treated is recommended if exposed to moisture)
Four (4) strong, able-bodied friends or strong, hired helpers
Two (2) long ratchet straps
Moving blankets
Moving truck
This is a basic list of the hot tub moving equipment you’ll need to move your tub safely. You may need additional items depending on the type of hot tub you own.
How many guys does it take to move a hot tub?
You’ll need at least four able-bodied people to help you move an average hot tub; this includes a lifter for each side. If your hot tub is heavy, it’s better to have at least six people available.
How much does an empty hot tub weigh?
Unfilled, a smaller hot tub that seats 2 to 3 people usually weighs around 500 lbs. and a larger hot tub seating 6-8 people will weigh up to 1,000 lbs. Check your user manual for your hot tub’s exact weight.
2. Measure the hot tub and all pathways
Grab your measuring tape and measure the length, width, and height of your hot tub. Write the measurements down or save them to your phone notes for reference.
Then, measure the pathway to the moving truck, making sure the hot tub has clearance all the way to the moving truck. This includes measuring all gates, doorways, and entryways.
3. Disconnect the hot tub from the electrical source
Turn off the hot tub’s power supply and unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
If the cord detaches, remove it from the hot tub and pack it in a labeled container. If the cord is fixed, roll it up and secure it to the hot tub so someone doesn’t trip and it doesn’t get damaged during moving.
4. Drain the hot tub
Drain your hot tub at least 24 hours before moving it, starting by attaching a garden hose to the drainage spout.
Direct the hose end to where you want the water drained or where it’s required to go per local regulations.
Then, open the valve and drain the water.
Once the hot tub is empty, remove the hose, close the drainage spout, and wipe down all surfaces with towels until dry.
5. Remove accessories and components
Remove all accessories and components from the hot tub, including steps, handrails, filters, pillows, and water jets.
Pack them in labeled containers. To help with reassembly, take pictures or videos of how everything fits together.
Also, remember to move the hot tub cover separately — don’t leave it on top of the hot tub during the move.
How to Move a Hot Tub Like a Pro
Now that your hot tub is move-ready, gather your four helpers, 4x4 boards, ratchet straps, and furniture dollies. Then, follow these five steps to learn more on how to move a hot tub.
1. Lift the hot tub off the ground
Have all four helpers lift one side of the hot tub while you place a 4x4 board under the lifted side for support. Repeat this action on the other side of the hot tub.
2. Place furniture dollies under the hot tub
Once boards are underneath, place a furniture dolly at the front and back of the hot tub and run two ratchet straps underneath the dollies and around the entire hot tub.
Secure the straps. Position two helpers on each side of the hot tub’s front and two on each side of the back side.
You and the two helpers at the back should then push the hot tub while the two helpers in the front serve as guides.
Slide the hot tub off the 4x4s so its weight is on the dollies.
3. Move the hot tub onto the truck
With one helper on each side and you in the middle back, push the hot tub toward the truck, making sure the dolly wheels are lined up to stay inside the ramp.
Push the hot tub up the ramp with three of you at the back and two guiding from the side of each front to help center the hot tub.
Once the hot tub is on the truck, push it to the front and remove the ratchet straps.
Cover it with moving blankets and then secure the hot tub to the sides of the moving truck with the ratchet straps.
4. Unload the hot tub
Undo the ratchet straps and remove the blankets. Then, re-fasten the ratchet straps by guiding them underneath the dollies and around the entire hot tub, securing them on top.
With a helper on each side, roll the hot tub out of the truck, down the ramp, and toward its new location.
Place two 4x4 boards in the desired location and push the hot tub onto the boards, undoing the ratchet straps. Then, have your helpers lift one end of the hot tub while you remove a dolly. Repeat on the other side.
Once the hot tub is resting on the boards, have your helpers lift an end while you pull the board out from underneath. Repeat on the other side.
5. Set the hot tub back up
Reassemble the hot tub by returning all accessories and components to their original locations and assembling as needed.
Disinfect the hot tub with a cleaning solution and then fill the hot tub with water.
Finally, unwrap or reattach the power cord and plug the cord into an outlet. Turn on the hot tub heater, and once the temperature is right, get into the hot tub and celebrate. You deserve it!
What NOT to Do When Moving a Hot Tub
Don’t use the wrong equipment or helpers. Make sure you have sturdy 4x4 boards, appropriate dollies, and strong enough people to lift the hot tub safely.
Don’t move the hot tub without securing the dollies to the hot tub with ratchet straps. Failing to use ratchet straps can result in the tub shifting and someone getting injured.
Don’t move your hot tub up or down steps or stairs. If your hot tub requires moving off one level, hire a professional moving service.
Don’t forget to remove obstacles such as lawn decorations, chairs, or equipment before moving your hot tub toward the truck.
Don’t load the dollies beyond their weight limit. Make sure the dollies are rated to carry the weight without tipping or breaking.
How to Move a Hot Tub with Colonial Van Lines
Moving a hot tub is no easy task, but taking time to do it properly will ensure your hot tub stays safe and protected during the move.
If you're unsure how to move a hot tub or you're worried about damaging it, leave it to the experts at Colonial Van Lines. With over 20 years of experience moving hot tubs and other large household belongings, our professionals will make sure your hot tub gets packed, loaded, and transported with the utmost care and safety. Get a free quote today!