How to Move a Lawn Mower

Moving a lawnmower can be a daunting task. But with the right tools and some careful planning, it can be a relatively easy process. This article will provide you with all the information you need to move your lawnmower safely and efficiently. So read on to learn more!

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Advantages of moving a lawnmower

Moving your lawnmower will provide you with several advantages, such as:

• You'll be able to keep the same lawnmower. This is especially significant if the equipment is relatively new or a type you just like and enjoy working with.
• You'll continue to utilize the gardening equipment you're already acquainted with.
• You'll be able to use it right after the move is finished to cut grass on the front lawn or backyard of your new home;
• If you've owned a lawnmower for several years, you won't have to spend money on purchasing a new lawn mower after the move as long as your current one is in good working order and will continue to serve you for the next few years.

Disadvantages of moving a lawnmower

Moving a lawnmower from one home to another has its share of drawbacks, such as:

• You may waste a lot of time preparing, packing, and loading the lawn equipment piece;
• In the preceding situation, you must spend money transporting your lawnmower to its ultimate destination. This is particularly bad from a financial standpoint if your lawnmower is out of date or has technical issues;
• If you choose to move by yourself and rent a moving vehicle, you'll need room on the truck for the mower
• Your lawnmower may be refused by a moving company for safety reasons, especially if it is a gas-powered model.

How to prepare a lawnmower for moving

You can't just load your lawnmower into a moving truck the way you left it right after you last worked with it. And you shouldn't do it for a number of safety reasons. Before you can load a lawnmower into a moving truck, you're going to need to prepare it properly for safe transportation.

Luckily, moving a lawnmower is not as difficult as it may seem. With a few simple tips, you can have that mower out of the garage and ready for use in no time. Here are four easy steps to moving your lawnmower:

Drain all liquids from the lawnmower

When picking up a lawnmower, the first thing you should do is empty the gas tank and oil tank and transfer the fluids into a container. Gas and oil are two hazardous materials that should be avoided when relocating. And, as you are aware, expert movers will not carry dangerous goods of any sort.

If you're moving your lawnmower on your own using a pick-up truck, a rental van, or a trailer, you'll want to be sure there isn't any gasoline or oil left in the equipment. Gas is highly flammable and particularly so when it is exposed to heat during a summer relocation, for example. Oil may seep out of an engine over time, so it's essential to get rid of any excess before moving.

You can either dump the fluids down a drain or into another container that will be disposed of properly. Just be sure to avoid coming in contact with the liquids and keep them away from open flames.

Properly Clean your lawnmower

The second stage in preparing a lawnmower for moving is to clean it of any remaining dirt and grass fragments before loading it onto the truck. Wipe out your mower with a big sponge and water, paying particular attention to the engine. The goal, of course, is to avoid dirtying your other belongings and keep the inside of the moving vehicle in good shape.

If you have time, you can also apply a light coat of oil to the moving parts of the lawnmower before storage. This will help keep them in good condition and make it easier to start up when you finally get them unpacked at your new home.

Remove all attachments and blades

Before putting your lawnmower on the truck, be sure to remove the blades. If you're not sure how to do it, consult the equipment's user guide.

Extra caution should be used when handling the blades to avoid injuries. While removing the cutting components, use thick gloves and then replace the original protective covers over the sharp edges to keep them secure. Pack them in a cardboard box separately wrapped in large sheets of bubble wrap. Remove any extra lawn mower attachments that can be removed safely and put them in a small box.

Remove the spark plug

The final stage in preparing a lawnmower for a move is to disconnect the spark plug, so it can't be accidentally started during transport. Even with its gasoline siphoned, a lawnmower may be started in some cases due to fuel fumes trapped inside the tank. Don't be hasty! Simply unplug your mower's spark plug (consult the user's manual), collapse its push handle, and secure it with tape or a piece of rope.

Packing and loading a lawnmower into a moving truck

The following packing and loading phases are simple after you've finished the above preparation steps. Here's how to pack a lawnmower for relocation and then how to put it in a moving van.

• Wrap any removed parts in bubble wrap (or ordinary packing paper) to avoid injuring them and place them in a box.
• If the lawnmower is still full of gasoline, pour it out into a safe container and put the empty container in another box.
• Pack the lawnmower in an upright position using cardboard or heavy-duty plastic wrap.
• Place the push lawnmower in the back of the pick-up truck or hire a moving van using the loading ramp.
• To minimize any movement while being transported, position the lawn mower's wheels perpendicular to the vehicle's wheels. Also, tie down the grass equipment to the side of the truck with straps or pieces of cord for further security.
• Cover the mower with a moving blanket and seal it with packing tape. This step will protect your lawn equipment from dust during transport by preventing potential contact with other household items.
• Label the boxes with the following: "Lawn Mower," "Gasoline," and "Oil."

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How to move a riding lawn mower

All of the steps involved in moving a push lawn mower are outlined. But if you have a ride-on lawnmower, you'll need to follow different procedures than if you own an electric one.

Purchase the right type of loading ramps

Remember that lawn mowers with cutting decks have limited clearance. This is why you'll need to use arched ramps (not straight ones), so your riding mower can pass over the edge of your truck's tailgate without harming the grass or the moving vehicle.

Pack the lawnmower in the back of the truck

Just like a push mower, place the lawn tractor in an upright position and use cardboard or heavy-duty plastic wrap to keep it from shifting. Secure it to the sides of the truck with straps or ropes. If you're not comfortable riding your mower backward, drive it up the ramps and into the back of the truck. Do it in low gear and don't stop or start back up midway on the ramps – if you must stop on the ramp, let your mower roll all the way back to its beginning position and try again.

Secure the mower onto the truck

Set the parking brake and secure the riding mower for transportation after loading it into the truck. Stoppage frequently to make sure that the tie-down straps haven't come loose and to ensure that the mower is safe.

How to connect the mower's electrical cord

Some people choose to move their lawn tractor by trailer. If you're one of them, you'll need to know how to properly connect the machine's electrical cord, so it doesn't get overloaded and catch on fire.

• To avoid any accidents, unplug the mower's spark plug before you start any of the following steps.
• Remove the spark plug's wire and unscrew its cap.
• Thread the end of the electrical cord through the hole in the spark plug's base and screw the cap back on tightly.
• Do not overtighten! Just hold it down with your hand until it's snug.
• Plugin the cord's other end into a live outdoor outlet and start the lawn tractor.
• If you're not moving your lawn tractor by trailer, you can simply unplug the cord's male end from the female end and coil it up for storage. 

Also See: Different Types of Grass for Your Lawn

Conclusion

Now you're ready to go! Follow these simple steps, and your lawnmower will be transported with ease. Be sure to take precautions while driving – like always wearing a seatbelt – and frequently stop to check that the equipment is still securely fastened. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact a professional for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you transport a lawnmower?

Lawnmowers may be taken by automobile. Keep the following points in mind to do so safely: Make sure the lawnmower is secured properly. Transport a lawnmower in a box that is sized to fit it (the less free space there is after placing the machine in the box, the better).

What should you do if your lawnmower won't start?

First, make sure you have followed all the starting procedures correctly. If you have and it still doesn't work, try checking the spark plug. If it is wet, replace it. If it is black and oily, clean it and reset the gap. If you still have problems, take the machine to a professional.

Can a lawn mower be transported by the trailer?

Yes, some people choose to move their lawn tractor by trailer. If you're one of them, you'll need to know how to properly connect the machine's electrical cord, so it doesn't get overloaded and catch on fire. 

Can you push a lawnmower?

You can't drive a hydrostatic mower without disengaging the gearbox. The wheels are turned by pressurized fluid, so if the pump is off, they won't turn. If you operate the mower while it's switched off, the fluid currently circulating through the wheels will return to the pump and cause damage.

How do you lift a push mower by yourself?

Tilt the mower back and push forward to the front wheels, either resting on top of the box or the plywood. Then, while pushing ahead, see-saw the mower onto the top of the box. Getting the mower up another level into your vehicle's trunk can be done similarly. This process will not require much strength if done correctly.

Also Read: How to Pack Heavy Items for Moving