How To Deliver a Hot Tub or Swim Spa Into A Garden?

Delivering hot tubs and swim spas into gardens is no small feat but fear not if there is a will there is a way. Here’s how Take Wellness ensures seamless installation using manpower, cranes, or even helicopters and how we help customers choose the right approach based on every type of access challenge.

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1. Manpower with Trailers and Conduit

For straightforward garden access, our experienced team typically uses trailers and conduit. This approach is often hassle-free, narrow enough to navigate tight side paths, and let us place hot tubs with minimal disruption usually completed within a few hours. Factors such as level ground and surface type all come into play when moving a hot tub or swim spa into position, but with careful planning and preparation prior to delivery. Providing the team with a short video of the route on your phone we are able to prepare for all variations with the right equipment.

2. Cranes for Elevated or Obstructed Access

When conventional routes are unavailable then provided a crane is able to get within the required distance then going over fences, houses, or walls is the go-to solution. A flatbed brings the hot tub or swim spa as close as possible, while a crane, positioned safely (often with outrigger supports), hoists the spa over the barrier with controlled precision. Crucial considerations often include trimming trees, avoiding overhead power lines and protecting fragile surfaces like septic tanks.

3. Helicopter Lifts for Extreme Cases

In settings where neither path nor crane access is feasible say, alpine balconies or remote landscapes then a helicopter is the ultimate solution. Lift times are swift (often under 40 minutes), though costs are significant, often exceeding £5,000 for a four-hour rental.

How Access Determines the Right Delivery Method

Access Condition	Recommended Method	Key Considerations
Wide, smooth path, no obstacles	Spa Dolly & manpower	Fastest and most cost-efficient
Narrow side paths, steps, or fences	Crane	Requires site prep and planning—potential line-of-sight issues
No ground access (e.g. steep terrain, remote)	Helicopter	Highly flexible but expensive
Small clear yard with rough terrain	Manpower with equipment	Need extra manpower and possibly protective flooring

Factors like garden path width (generally 1–1.3 m wide, 2–2.4 m vertical clearance) significantly impact method choice. Pre-delivery surveys, ideally in person, ensure accurate assessment of the correct method of delivery for your hot tub or swim spa.

Preparing Your Space: Ensuring a Smooth Delivery

Lay a solid foundation: A level concrete slab (or structurally robust deck) is essential to support the weight of a full spa (which can be several tons).
Check electrical supply: Most units require a dedicated 220V line installed by a qualified electrician.
Plan for maintenance access: If possible allow space in front and possibly on the sides or rear so technicians can reach equipment panels for servicing. When ‘sinking’ the hot tub or swim spa additional work will be required to create access for any future maintenance.
Address local regulations: You may need permits for electrical work or exterior construction, and compliance with fencing or child-safety codes may be required.
Evaluate delivery route: Ensuring you have provided the delivery team with all the information required to plan a safe route to the final destination. Evaluating, protecting or removing any delicate items or areas which may be at risk.

The Take Wellness Promise: Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way

Free site consultation
We assess your garden access in person, noting critical dimensions, obstacles, and structural concerns, getting the facts straight from the ground up.
Transparent cost estimates
We discuss potential fees up front, like crane services (£450–800) or helicopter lifts (often £5,000+) so you know exactly what to expect.
Safety and liability assurance
We work only with experienced, insured subcontractors (minimum £1 million coverage) to ensure your hot tub, swim spa and your garden are in safe hands.
Custom installation planning
Whether that’s identifying overhanging branches that require trimming, reinforcing the access route, or coordinating with local authorities, we make sure the delivery goes smoothly.
Post-delivery setup and support
From placing the spa on its foundation, connecting power, to showing you how to operate controls and maintain water chemistry, we complete the setup to your satisfaction.

At Take Wellness, we don’t just deliver hot tubs and swim spas, we tailor every delivery to your unique garden layout and needs. Whether it’s the ease of dollies, the precision of cranes, or the adaptability of helicopter lifts, we’ve got the solution and the logistics covered.

Getting ready for installation? Reach out for your free site assessment today, and we’ll bring clarity and relaxation straight to your garden.