You are looking at getting a shed. You are also wondering about the delivery and installation costs here in Victor. It is not just the shed itself that you need to consider. There are a few moving parts involved. We are here to break down what we have seen over the years in the Bitterroot Valley.
What Makes the Price Go Up?
A few things really change the cost of getting your shed from our shop to your backyard. We also need to set it up right. It is more than just the size of the shed. The size is still an important factor.
- Shed Size and Weight: This is the most obvious factor. A small 8x10 garden shed is much easier to move. It is also cheaper to move than a 14x40 workshop. Bigger sheds need bigger trailers as well as more specialized equipment. They sometimes need permits or escort vehicles. This is especially true on public roads. For example, moving a 12x32 shed locally in Montana might cost around $1,100. This is for moves under 30 miles. A larger 16x40 shed could be closer to $1,900 for a local move.
- Distance: We also consider how far we are hauling the shed. A shed going across town is less expensive. It is naturally less expensive than one coming from a few counties over. Local moves under 100 miles are much cheaper. They are much cheaper than long-distance moves. You are generally looking at $1 to $5 per mile for shed transport. That cost can vary a lot.
- Site Accessibility: This is a very important factor. This is especially true around Victor. We have some beautiful properties. These properties can sometimes be tricky to access. If your backyard is easy to get to with a truck and trailer, that is great. If we are navigating tight corners, steep slopes, or soft ground, that will add to the labor. It may also need specialized equipment. This equipment includes a shed mule or even a crane. A crane rental for just one day can cost from $200 for a small mobile unit. It can also cost up to $1,000 for a larger one. If we need a crane to get your shed over your house or a tricky fence line, you will pay for that crane. You will also pay for the extra time.
- Site Preparation: This often gets overlooked in the initial budget. Your shed needs a level and stable foundation. Here in Victor, we have a mix of loamy topsoil over gravelly subsoil. Proper site preparation is important to stop settling as well as drainage issues. If your site is not level, we will need to fix that. A professional gravel pad is often recommended for good drainage. This can cost $4 to $10 per square foot. This cost includes materials as well as labor. So, for a 10x12 shed, a gravel pad could be $480 to $1,200. If your site has a big slope, like 8 to 14 inches off level, that can add 20% to the foundation cost.
- Permits: You might need a permit from Ravalli County. This depends on the size of your shed. It also depends on where you are putting it. Smaller sheds under 200 square feet often do not need a building permit. It is always best to check with the county planning department. If permits are needed for the shed itself, those fees will be added. This also applies to oversize transport permits.
Typical Cost Ranges You Can Expect
We will talk about real numbers now. For a new shed purchase from us at Bitterroot Valley Custom Sheds, delivery and installation are usually bundled. They are bundled into the overall price of the shed. Here is what we generally see for the delivery and installation portion.
- Standard Delivery & Basic Installation (level site, easy access): For a typical 10x12 or 12x16 shed, you are usually looking at a few hundred dollars. This is often in the range of $300 to $800. This covers getting it to your property. It also covers offloading as well as precise placement. We also level it on your prepared foundation.
- More Complex Situations (minor leveling, moderate access): If we need to do some minor shimming for a slightly unlevel site, that might push the cost to $800 - $1,500. We might also need to navigate a bit of a tighter spot. This includes using specialized equipment like a shed mule. This helps us move it into place without tearing up your yard.
- Challenging Deliveries (significant site prep, difficult access, crane needed): This is where costs can really go up. If we are talking about a lot of site leveling, you could be looking at $1,500 to $4,000 or even more. This also applies to a concrete slab. Needing a crane to lift the shed over obstacles can also increase the cost. The exact amount depends on the specifics. Crane time is not cheap.
These ranges are for the delivery and installation of a new shed. You should keep that in mind. If you are looking to move an existing shed, that is a different situation. That often needs a dedicated shed relocation service. Moving an existing shed can cost from $200 to $1,000 for local moves. It can go up to $3,500 or more for larger sheds. This also applies to difficult situations.
What is Included in a Quote from Bitterroot Valley Custom Sheds?
When you get a quote from us for a new shed, we try to be clear. Here is what you can expect to be covered.
- Transportation: This covers getting your pre-built shed from our shop to your property.
- On-Site Placement: We carefully move the shed into its final position. We use our specialized equipment for this.
- Leveling: We will make sure your shed is perfectly level on your prepared foundation. We use composite shims as well as pressure-treated blocking. This is important for door and window function. It is also important for the shed's longevity.
- Anchoring: We secure the shed to your foundation. This is to stop it from shifting. This is especially important with our Montana winds.
- Site Assessment: We will do an initial assessment. This is sometimes virtual. It is sometimes in person. This checks accessibility as well as foundation readiness.
The cost of the foundation itself is usually not included. This includes a gravel pad or concrete slab. Any necessary permits are also not included. You will need to consider these separately. We will guide you on what you need. These are generally separate line items or services.
How to Avoid Paying Too Much
Nobody wants to waste money. Here are our best tips for keeping your shed delivery and installation costs in check.
- Prepare Your Site: This is the most important tip. Have a clear and level pad ready to go. We recommend a gravel base. This base should be at least six inches larger than your shed's footprint on all sides. This helps with good drainage. If your site is already prepared and accessible, you will save on labor. You will also save on equipment costs.
- Clear the Path: Make sure there is a clear and unobstructed path for our delivery truck as well as our equipment. Trim back any low-hanging tree branches. Move vehicles. Make sure gates are wide enough. Every minute we spend clearing a path adds to your bill.
- Be Honest About Your Site: Tell us everything about your site when you are getting a quote. Tell us about slopes, tight turns, and soft spots. Also tell us about overhead obstructions. The more information we have upfront, the more accurate your quote will be. You are also less likely to have surprises on installation day.
- Consider Shed Placement: Think about the easiest spot to access. Moving the shed just a few feet can sometimes make a big difference. This difference is in delivery complexity.
- Get Multiple Quotes (but compare apples to apples): It is smart to get a few quotes. You need to make sure you are comparing the same services. Does one quote include foundation work? Does another one not? Are they using the same quality materials? Are they offering the same level of installation expertise?
Getting a new shed should be an exciting addition to your property. It should not be a problem. You will ensure a smooth process by understanding these costs. You will also get a shed that is ready to serve you for years to come. This is done by preparing your site. If you have questions about your specific property or shed project, you can call us at Bitterroot Valley Custom Sheds. We are here to help you get it right.