How long does it take to move a tree?

In most cases, trees can be relocated in two hours or less per tree, depending on soil conditions. Tree Moving requires digging a pilot hole, digging and relocating the tree, then putting the pilot hole plug back where the tree was so there are no holes left behind. 

How large of a tree can be moved?

We have successfully relocated trees over 40 feet tall with our largest tree spade. In general, CTS specializes in relocating trees  30+ feet tall. 

Larger trees can be relocated utilizing cranes, or rollers. These trees typically must be relocated on property because they are too heavy and tall to be moved on public roads. We have successfully relocated trees 50 feet tall using cranes to lift trees over houses from a front yard to backyard.

Can trees survive transplant?

We have over 90% success rate in relocating trees with tree transplanters when proper before and after care is done. This is much higher than B+B trees as the roots are kept intact in their native soil, maintaining the biosphere of bugs, mold and the rest of the roots ecosystem without loosing up the dirt. Nursery trees are often hand dug, wrapped, and transplanted several times in their early years which is very stressful on young trees. In many cases, nurserys don't remove the initial buck / wire / burlap when they are received and 'planted' in the nursery. Trees that sit that way to long become root bound. Naturally transplanted trees experience less stress when they are relocated quickly, with native soil and microbes, and put directly into the ground. 

Is tree transplanting expensive?

In most cases, it is cheaper to transplant a tree over 10 feet tall than it is to purchase one from a nursery.  Additionally, if you are in need of tree removal, it is usually cheaper to transplant a tree than to cut it down, grind the stump, and remove the roots. To some people, trees themselves are priceless, so the expense is a relative term. Best case, you can list your tree for free, and have someone else pay to transplant the tree to their home. You get the tree removed for free, they get a 'free tree' and just pay the relocation cost. Win - Win! 

When is the best time to move a tree?

Trees can be moved year round in most cases. It is best to not move a tree when it is candling or putting on new growth - however - if it will be cut down if not moved, it can still be successfully transplanted. We cannot move trees in freezing conditions, but moving trees in the winter when they are dormant is a great time to relocate trees. 

How much to move a tree?

The cost for tree transplanting depends on many factors including size, distance, soil conditions and more. In most cases, you can plan for $1000 per tree which typically includes relocation, hole filling, mileage and other expenses. We can usually be more cost effective. 

Trees over 30 feet tall that require The Bigger Digger, the largest tree transplanter based in Colorado. This Mega Mover starts at $10,000 for the first tree and mobilization of this piece of equipment.

What do you need to estimate a move?

Visit our Contact Us page and our Blog for more information on what tree moving and after care looks like. In short, we request the following information:

- Diameter of tree 12" above the ground ( Get the circumference by measuring all the way around the tree, and divide by 3.14 to give us diameter). This tells us how large the Caliper of the tree is, and what size equipment is needed

- Photos of the tree from 3 angles from at least 20 feet away. We need to see everything around the tree such as concrete, pavement, houses, rocks. Anything within a 6 foot radius will have to be removed

- Access. Could a concrete truck drive right up to the tree and touch it without issue? Slopes, fences, power lines, buildings can all block access to the tree making transplanting with a truck or trailer mounted spade impossible. It may still be possible to move the tree by hand, crane or other specialty equipment. 

- Arial view from Google Maps of the entire property, with marks for where the trees are and where you want them to go. This helps us understand access points and other potential issues

- Location of underground utilities. While we will call in a formal ticket prior to the move, knowing where your gas, water, electric and other lines are are very important. We cannot dig within 18" of any utility lines.