Remove any windows. Any shifting or warping of the structure could break them. Help the shed keep its shape by attaching boards with nails or screws into the studs from corner to corner on each wall, and in an X pattern across the floor. Add additional diagonal supports across window and door openings, as these are weak points during a move.
You may be able skip the digging and tip and lift a smaller shed to fit the jack underneath, especially if it is sitting on a concrete or brick pad. If so, make sure you support the structural integrity first and tip and lift with extreme caution.
Another method is to use a length of steel angle iron or multiple pieces that span the entire length of the structure’s side, being sure the the jacks will fit securely under the upper side of the angle iron. Attach it by drilling holes in the angle iron at each stud location and securely bolting it in place just high enough to get the jacks in place. Then, operate the jacks in unison and slowly lift the structure. If you’re going to move the shed by dragging it on a makeshift wooden sled, you won’t have to jack it up very high. If you’re rolling it on pipes, you’ll need to lift it a bit higher, and if you’re putting it on a trailer hitched to a truck, even higher still. Jack up the shed only as high as necessary. The higher it is raised, the more careful you need to be. Make sure all jacks and supports are level, secure, and supporting the structure. You can also make repairs to damaged or rotted areas at the bottom of the shed while it’s securely lifted off the ground.
Three pipes are often sufficient for smaller sheds. Space out the pipes beneath the shed (to support its weight) and perpendicular to the direction you’ll be moving (so they can roll forward in that direction). Especially if you’re moving the shed over soft ground, use two pairs of long, wide boards as tracks over which to roll the pipes. 2" x 10" boards may be a good choice, and consider doubling them to create a 4" base to ensure the boards do not fail. Lay them out like railroad tracks pointing in the direction you’re heading; place one pair beneath the pipes and shed, and one pair in front of that.
As you push the shed forward, the pipe nearest to you will “pop out” from underneath the shed. Carry it around to the front and roll the shed onto it. You will repeat this process over and again until you reach your destination. If you are using wooden tracks underneath the pipes, reposition them as you go as well. Think of it as laying a railroad track in front of a (slowly) moving train by ripping up and reusing the tracks now behind the train.
Make sure the destination is prepared and level. Make sure the shed is still level and square as you remove the braces and prepare it for use again. Make repairs as needed.
Make sure the shed is centered on the trailer and secured properly with strong, snug strapping. Cover any roof shingles with a secure tarp; high speeds can cause them to shear off. You may also want to cover any window openings with plywood, whether the windows have been removed or not.
Fashion the sled out of plywood sheets or a similarly thin, fairly smooth material. Make sure that it is larger than the base of the shed. The weight of the shed should pin the sled underneath while moving; otherwise, secure it to the shed structure with screws. Wrap the tow line around the entire shed, about midway up the side walls. Latch, hook, or tie it on the side facing the back of the truck so that it is securely snug in place, then run the line and secure it to the vehicle’s tow hitch. Drive slowly and steadily, avoiding lurches forward or quick stops. Have a couple of helpers keep an eye on the shed and help guide it as needed.
Make sure you have been properly instructed in the safe use of such equipment before trying to move your shed with it. Make sure the shed is properly secured to the machine with heavy-duty strapping.
Make sure there are no hanging tree branches in the way as well. And, depending upon the size of your shed, take special note of any electrical lines that might be in the way. It can’t be emphasized enough, be sure you have planned out exactly how you will move the shed and pay close attention to controlling your movements. Do not underestimate the total weight of the shed.
If the shed is proving too heavy to push, bring in some more helpers before continuing. Bribe your buddies with pizza and their beverages of choice afterward. If you have electricity, water, or any other utilities running to the shed, hire a professional to make the disconnections.
