Table Of Contents
Moving Your Spa
A spa can simply be described as a water treatment. This treatment can happen in different forms. We have spa resorts commonly referred to as spas in various locations today, and in these spas, mineral-rich spring water (e.g. water from natural springs) are used for healing baths and other treatments.
Spa resorts are trendy nowadays. Hot tubs, Jacuzzis, and jetted tubs can also be called a spa. So, this article will use them interchangeably. There are copious reasons you may want to move your spa. Maybe to move it to the deck to take advantage of an elevated view. It could also be that you want to move your spa to a new sunroom, and in some cases, people move their hot tubs to a different city.
After all, it is an excellent means of unwinding after a strenuous day. Regardless of the reason you are shifting your spa, it should be done safely, efficiently, and as cheaply as possible. Because hot tubs are heavy, it would be unthinkable to move them all on your own; you could get yourself injured or damage the hot tub in the process.
The best, effective and safe method of moving your hot tub is to outsource the task to a professional. This article will discuss the cost to move your spa, the different costs involved, and the factors that determine these costs.
Cost Of Moving A Spa
The professional that will move your spa may be an independent moving company, a dealer-related service provider, or a local hot tub dealer. The price it will cost you to move your hot tub will depend on a number of factors. For instance, moving a spa upstairs or to a place with a higher elevation will cost you quite a bit.
If the company deploys a crane to assist with the relocation, this will also influence the cost, and you may be charged on a per-hour basis. However, a move across an apartment or between level surfaces is usually charged at a flat rate.
Moving a spa on-site
The average cost of moving a spa is usually between $200 and $400 if you move the spa to a different location on the same site. There are other factors that might impose additional charges, such as moving the spa through different complex spaces.
The price will also vary depending on where you live. You can always contact a spa relocation specialist who will visit your home, access the work to be done, and generate a quote.
Moving a spa off-site
When it comes to moving your hot tub to a different location, the price varies depending on the distance covered. Many dealers do not offer off-site moving service, so ask if your dealer can perform this task.
When you invite a moving company, they will generate a quote depending on the distance to your destination. If you are moving your hot tub to a different city, look for moving companies that offer this kind of service. They can help you move not just your spa but other possessions as well.
Are There Extra Costs?
There may be an extra cost if extra effort is required to move your spa. For instance, you may need to hire a crane or a helicopter to move the spa. Cranes are very helpful in tricky installations where you have to lift a tub over balconies, garages, rooftops, and sometimes even houses.
What is the cost to hire a crane for my spa removal?
In Australia, the cost of hiring a crane for hot tub removal varies from $500 to $2000. The factors that influence the price include:
- Where you live with prices being higher in city centres
- How difficult it is to get the job done. Difficulty is assessed by looking at:
- The size of the spa
- The type of crane to be deployed for the job
- If there will be road closure for lifting to be done safely
- If any overhead cable will be removed to access the hot tub
For instance, if the crane moves the hot tub over a five-inch-tall wall and there is enough space for the crane to park without disrupting other road users, the price will be at the lower end of the cost range. However, if you are getting the spa out of the third balcony and the process requires a significant section of road to be closed and some transmission cable removed for the crane to access the site, you could be charged even more than what was quoted.
When do I need to hire a crane for my spa removal?
Not all spa relocation will need a crane. Only about 5% of all spa removals or installations will need the services of a crane. The rest can be done using equipment such as spa dollies, winches, or sliders. Due to the high cost of hiring a crane, it is better to try every other possible method before hiring a crane.
Unfortunately, there are situations where a crane may not also be enough. For instance:
- If there is an obstruction like a powerline, phone line, or trees that need to be removed, which could be a big challenge, and a crane may not be helpful.
- If there is no access in your compound, the crane will have to park on the street as there is no space for the crane to operate freely. This means that you have to get the approval of the relevant authorities before you can block traffic, especially if you live on a major road. If the request is approved, this will attract some charge, and in some cases, it may not even be granted.
What do I do if I cannot use a crane to move my spa?
If you can't use a crane, then a helicopter is a great alternative. Although a helicopter delivery costs more than a crane on average, this is not always true. There are instances where hiring a helicopter is cheaper than hiring a crane to move hot tubs.
Things To Consider Before Hiring Movers
Know all the details
Before you call and hire a professional for your spa removal, make sure you get all the details about the hot tub, including the make, size, model, and reason for the move.
Hire an experienced professional
Hot tubs are heavy and very fragile. So, you need the most experienced mover with the right equipment to handle your job.
Remove all the water
If the hot tub will be moved to a different climate, it is better to remove all the water with a high-pressure vacuum. Even if the hot tub looks empty, there may still be water trapped inside the pipe and connectors, which should be emptied to avoid messing up the entire unit while in transit.
Demand for a guarantee
Ask for a guarantee from the company. What will they do if one of them drops the hot tub and it is damaged? Will the hot tub be repaired or replaced? If they are not willing to guarantee your safety, look for another company and ensure they are insured.
How To Prepare For Spa Removal
First, disconnect the power and drain all the water from the hot tub. Disconnecting and draining the hot tub is usually not included in the hot tub moving services except in rare cases.
If you will be moving the spa to a new location, draining the hot tub offers you the chance to remove all the water so that no trapped water can leak into other items while in transit.
It is essential to drain the spa thoroughly, especially for an off-site movement. If the moving company included disconnection and draining as part of the spa relocation package, you should take advantage of it.
What To Do If Spa Is Damaged In Transit
One of the fears people experience when moving their hot tubs is the possibility of damage during movement. Although this can happen, you don't have to worry. The only action you will need to undertake to protect your interest is to ensure that you hire a licensed and insured moving company.
A licensed and insured moving company is required by law to have an insurance cover that can pay for at least a portion of your property in case of damage. Others offer a total cover that will pay for the entire cost of your property. If you intend to move your hot tub through a dealership, they also have insured delivery crews and policies in place to indemnify you in case your hot tub gets damaged.
To know the total insurance coverage you are entitled to, ask questions about their insurance policy before concluding the deal. Also, take a clear picture of the state of the spa before the move. While this may sound like an extra hassle, it will be helpful if something goes wrong.
Selling Versus Moving An Old Spa
Before moving your spa, you have to think it through and weigh all your options. For instance, a spa adds to the value of a home. If your intention is to sell the house in the nearest future, it may be better to leave the spa there as that will add to the property’s value and make it more attractive to buyers.
However, if your hot tub is old, you should consider saving the moving cost and channelling the funds to a new hot tub with the latest features. If you are staying in your home or moving to a different house in the same city, you can make savings by channelling the money from moving the old spa toward getting a new spa instead.
Can I Move My Spa Myself?
This is not advisable because hot tubs are fragile and heavy, you can also get yourself injured or damage the spa if you do not know how to do it properly. However, it is still feasible if you follow the steps below meticulously:
Get moving equipment
This includes moving straps, large plywood pieces, furniture dollies, and cleaning supplies. You can rent dollies from home improvement stores.
Rent a moving truck
Rent a truck that is large enough to hold the spa. Depending on the overall size of your spa, you might need to get a box truck that is at least 15 feet long. Measure the hot tub before renting a truck. Make sure it comes with a ramp so that moving the hot tub into the truck is easier.
Ask people to assist you
You need at least six people to help you with the move because hot tubs are pretty heavy. Ask friends and family for help, and if you can’t find enough hands, find hired help. Never attempt to move the hot tub yourself; it is too heavy for one person.
Assess your environment
If moving the tub involves passing through intricate areas, moving it down a flight of stairs, or interfering with the landscape, you need to figure out how you will accomplish this task without causing too much damage.
Disconnect the hot tub
Unplug the spa from the mains and pack all the cords together to ensure they don’t get damaged or go missing.
Drain the hot tub
This should be carefully done to avoid flooding your yard. You need to consult the manufacturer’s guide so that you can drain hot tubs properly. The best place to channel the hot tub drain is into the street drainage. After draining, clean the hot tub and make sure it is clean and dry before moving it.
Plan your movement
Mentally go through the distance between your current location and the destination. Identify all the obstacles and strategies on how to overcome them. This should be done prior to your journey.
Place plywood under the hot tub
This will ensure that the surface is smooth and flat. Lift the hot tub onto the wood. You will need at least three people to assist you with this process.
Put some furniture dollies under the hot tub
Slide a dolly under the front and back end of the hot tub; the tub should sit securely on the two dollies. To guarantee that the hot tub doesn't fall off, use moving straps to hold it in place. You should also have four people holding the hot tub on each of its four sides.
Roll the hot tub to the loading ramp
Once you have secured the hot tub to the dollies, roll and push it onto the truck (you need at least four people to push it). While in the truck, make sure you get someone to hold it while on transit. You should also secure the hot tub to the side of the truck.
Moving A Spa Is Not A DIY Activity
Getting a spa tub moved is not an easy task. It is not a task you want to do yourself. It is more effective to hire a professional for the job. When hiring a spa mover, go for a reliable company with the expertise, skills, experience, and tools. By choosing a reputable removalist, you will have peace of mind all through the process.
