Moving a storage shed down a steep hill?

[HendricksHearth]

Hi everyone,

We have a storage shed that is probably something like 15' long and 10' wide that for some reason the previous owner decided to put at the top of a steep hill that has about a 3' drop at the bottom (stone wall). Our yard is fenced with large trees and a crane or tractor can't get to it without tearing down the fencing, but there is an area just large enough for the shed to fit through. So, my question is- is there any way we can move it by hand or with limited equipment without breaking the shed or ourselves?

Any helps is appreciated! Thanks!

Lauren

[Bearfootfarm]

So, my question is- is there any way we can move it by hand or with limited equipment without breaking the shed or ourselves

I wouldnt bet on it being a successful endeavor.

The only possibility would be winches, ramps and rollers, but the odds of doing it without unforseen problems is slim

[NCLee]

I moved a 12x16 on fairly level ground using jacks and rollers. Couldn't get a vehicle in the space to move it back and then sideways. That was a heck of a lot of work and did have the potential for problems. I can see even more if you have to deal with a 3' drop. We only had to move it a few feet in each of those directions.

I'd take down the fence so you can get in the equipment to move it safely. It only takes one slip to have a crushed hand or broken leg, especially when dealing with a slope.

Just my 2-cents.

Lee

[kreig]

I have moved LOTS of stuff with ropes, jacks and rollers. It can most definitely be done and done safely with a little thought. Do you happen to be near Ohio? If so maybe I could play too! If you want some more information let me know, I'll help if I can

[Windy in Kansas]

Everyone has it right, rollers. On hard solid ground fence posts work fairly well if they are pretty round. The last I moved was across 2 x 12s on ¾ inch pipe. Easy for two men to push along while a third moved rollers from back to front. Used a bar to move it into final position and a jack to get the initial rollers under it. Handiman type of jack.

[ronbre]

it depends on how well the shed was put together..and on what type of foundation..

i have moved smaller sheds by 4 people carrying them..one on each corner..but that is pretty big and likely heavy..

best way would be to reinforce the foundation corners and sides and use logs to roll it on..

[HendricksHearth]

Thank you all so much for your kind, thoughtful replies! Unfortunately I live in GA or I would be giving Kreig a call.

I really would have a hard time justifing tearing the fence down for the shed as we just recently put another $800 into it and we need it for our dogs in suburbia.

It sounds like we might be able to safety anchor it to some of our big old pines and oaks, then jack it up a little bit, slide rollers underneath, and use winches/pulleys to slowly lower it down the hill with at least one strong ramp and everyone standing clear just in case, but it sounds pretty tough and with a possibility of cracking the whole thing like an egg if it goes awry.

I think the shed is just resting on a couple of concrete blocks right now- it is a simple wood Lowe's type model from the looks of it, but is empty and in great shape, just in a terrible location. I was hoping to convert it into a small barn in the level part of our yard. I know some septic companies have those tiny backhoes that can get through walking gates.. maybe a couple of those would work to lift up and over the hill?

Thank you again!

Lauren