Whether you’re moving across town or relocating to a different state, transporting your lawn equipment properly is essential to ensure it arrives safely and functions as it should. Lawn equipment can be bulky, heavy, and in some cases, hazardous if not packed correctly.
From lawnmowers to trimmers and garden tools, this guide covers everything you need to know about how to pack and move lawn equipment efficiently and safely, step by step, plus tips, FAQs, and more.
Inventory Your Lawn Equipment
Before you begin packing, take inventory of all the lawn equipment and garden tools you plan to move. Create a checklist of items such as:
- Push or riding lawn mowers
- Leaf blowers
- String trimmers
- Hedge trimmers
- Chainsaws
- Shovels, rakes, hoes
- Wheelbarrows
- Garden hoses and nozzles
- Fertilizers and pesticides
- Lawn furniture and storage sheds (we cover how to pack and move patio furniture and appliances separately)
Clean and Service Lawn Equipment Before Moving
Moving dirty or gunked-up tools can create a mess and potentially damage other items. It can also cause issues during transit. We recommend that you:
- Wipe down tools with a damp cloth.
- Scrape off dirt and dried grass from mower blades and undercarriages.
- Clean air filters and check for debris buildup in power tools.
- Sharpen blades if needed, especially if you’re moving to a new home where you’ll need your equipment ready right away.
This is also a great time to service your equipment — tighten screws, lubricate parts, and inspect for wear and tear.
Drain Fuel and Oil
This is one of the most crucial steps, especially for gas-powered tools.
Why You Should Drain Fluids:
- Fuel and oil are flammable.
- Leaks can damage other items during the move.
- Movers may refuse to transport items with fuel in them.
How to Drain Safely:
- Run the engine until it’s out of fuel.
- Use a siphon pump to remove excess gas from tanks.
- Dispose of fuel and oil at a local recycling or hazardous waste facility.
For electric tools, simply unplug batteries or remove them and pack separately.
Disassemble When Necessary
Large or bulky equipment like riding mowers, tillers or dethatchers can be awkward to move in one piece. To disassemble:
- Remove attachments (e.g., baggers, blades and handles).
- Detach wheels or handlebars if possible.
- Keep nuts, bolts and screws in labeled bags and tape them to the equipment or store in a toolkit.
Pack Hand Tools and Smaller Items
For rakes, hoes, shovels, and other hand tools:
- Bundle similar tools together with zip ties or rope.
- Wrap blades in cardboard or bubble wrap to avoid injury or damage.
- Place smaller hand tools (e.g., pruning shears) in a toolbox or small bin.
For power tools like leaf blowers or hedge trimmers:
- Use original boxes if available.
- Otherwise, wrap in moving blankets or bubble wrap and secure in sturdy boxes.
- Label boxes clearly with “Tools” or “Fragile” as needed.
How to Move Lawn Mowers
Push Mowers:
- Drain all fluids.
- Clean thoroughly.
- Remove blades or protect them with cardboard.
- Place in a sturdy upright position and secure with straps.
Riding Mowers:
- Drain fuel and oil.
- Disconnect the battery.
- If possible, remove the mower deck.
- Use ramps to load onto a truck or trailer.
- Secure with ratchet straps to prevent shifting during transport.
Use the Right Materials
Needless to say, having the right moving materials makes a big difference in ensuring your lawn equipment is transported safely. We recommend using:
- Moving blankets or furniture pads
- Bubble wrap and stretch wrap
- Zip ties, rope or bungee cords
- Sturdy boxes and bins
- Toolboxes for organizing small items
- Heavy-duty gloves for handling sharp or heavy parts
- Labels and markers for organization
Loading Lawn Equipment on a Truck
When packing your moving truck, place heavy lawn equipment:
- Toward the front of the truck to balance the load.
- In a way that prevents movement during transport.
- Away from fragile household items.
Use wooden blocks or wheel chocks to prevent rolling. Secure everything with ratchet straps or rope.
Post-Move Setup
Once you’ve arrived at your new home:
- Reassemble your tools using the labeled parts you packed.
- Refuel and re-oil gas-powered equipment.
- Test everything to make sure it still works properly.
- Sharpen blades or perform light maintenance as needed.
- Store everything in a dry, ventilated area like a shed or garage.
Tips for Long-Distance Moves
If you’re moving across the country or into a different climate, consider these additional tips:
- Climate considerations: Humid or dry climates may affect how you store or care for your equipment after the move.
- Lawn regulations: Some states restrict the transport of plants, soil or organic matter to prevent pest infestations.
- Shipping options: If you’re not transporting your items yourself, check with the moving company to see what lawn equipment they will or won’t take.
Bonus Tips for a Smooth Move
- Label everything clearly, especially boxes with sharp tools.
- Take photos of complex assemblies before taking them apart.
- Keep a basic tool kit handy during your move for quick adjustments.
- If selling or giving away old tools, do so before the move to lighten your load.
- When in doubt, consult your equipment manual for manufacturer-specific moving guidelines.
- For long-term storage, consider using fuel stabilizers if you can’t drain the tank completely.
- Make sure your new lawn is ready for use by setting up a dedicated tool storage area early on.
- Consider using a professional moving company or trailer for large, heavy-duty equipment.
The Bottom Line
Packing and moving lawn equipment might not be the most exciting part of your move, but it’s a crucial step to make sure your new home is ready for action from day one. With the right planning, materials, and safety measures, you can get your garden gear from point A to point B without a hitch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How to Pack and Move Lawn Equipment
Can movers transport lawn equipment with gas in it?
Most moving companies will not transport items with fuel or oil due to fire risk. You must drain all fluids prior to moving.
How should I move a riding mower without a trailer?
Use heavy-duty ramps to load it into a moving truck, or rent a utility trailer. Secure it with ratchet straps to prevent it from moving.
Do I need to clean tools before moving?
Yes. Clean tools prevent contamination, pests and mess. Many moving companies require it for safety reasons.
Should I remove the battery from my electric mower?
Yes, remove the battery and pack it separately in a cool, dry and secure box to prevent damage.
What’s the best way to pack garden tools?
Bundle long-handled tools, wrap blades for safety, and store small tools in bins or boxes. Use padding for anything with sharp edges.
Additional Resources
Here are some more tips on packing and moving outdoor items, plus home improvement ideas for your outside areas:
Packing Outdoor Items for a Move: Tips & Tricks
What to Consider When Purchasing a Lawn Mower
The Best Shed Ideas for Your Yard
How to Pack Your Garage
Why You Should Consider Using a Freight Trailer to Move Long Distance
Where to Find a Trailer Rental When You Move
Car Trailer vs. Tow Dolly: Which Should You Choose?
Trailer Hitch Installation: What It Is and Where to Find It
Home Depot Trailer Rental: The Inside Scoop